Champion 3500 Watt Generator Review – Dual Fuel Power for RVs and Homes

We spent three full days testing the Champion 3500-Watt Dual Fuel Generator to see how it performs in terms of power output, runtime, noise, and overall usability. Designed with both RV owners and homeowners in mind, this unit promises flexibility and solid performance, especially with its RV-ready outlet and dual fuel capability.

Let’s dive into the details and see whether this generator lives up to its claims.

Champion 3500 Watt Dual Fuel Generator – Quick Overview

Feature	Specification
Gasoline Wattage	4375 surge / 3500 running watts
Propane Wattage	3950 surge / 3150 running watts
Amps on Gasoline (120V)	36.5 starting / 29.2 running
Amps on Propane (120V)	32.9 starting / 26.3 running
Fuel Options	Gasoline and Propane
Runtime	9–10 hours @ 50% load (gas)
Noise Level	68–74 dB
Fuel Tank Capacity	3.4 gallons
Engine	224cc, 4-stroke
Certifications	EPA and CARB compliant
RV Outlet	Yes, 30A RV-ready
Weight	104.9 lbs
Dimensions	23.2″ x 19.1″ x 20.0″

Unboxing and First Impressions

The generator arrived well-packaged, with foam and cardboard offering strong protection during transit. Inside the box, we found a user manual, propane hose, engine oil, and an oil funnel. The build feels sturdy, and the yellow-black color scheme is visually appealing.

One notable drawback is the absence of a wheel kit, which would make transportation much easier. You can buy it separately, but we feel it should’ve been included by default.

Design and Build Quality

The overall design is rugged and user-friendly, featuring a clean control panel layout. While compact and fairly lightweight for a dual fuel unit, the lack of built-in wheels is a disadvantage, particularly for users who plan to move it frequently.

Control Panel & Outlet Options

The control panel includes:

• 2x 120V 20A AC outlets
  
• 1x 120V 30A RV-ready outlet
  
• 1x 120V 30A locking outlet
  
• Circuit breakers
  
• 3-mode intelligauge (voltage, frequency, runtime)
  
• Engine ON/OFF switch
  
• Fuel selector switch
  
• LPG inlet
  

Fuel Tank, Runtime & Fuel Flexibility

The Champion 3500-Watt Generator comes with a 3.4-gallon gasoline tank and the ability to connect to a propane tank for extended runtime.

During our tests:

• Gasoline: 9–10 hours @ 50% load
  
• Gasoline: Up to 12.5 hours @ 25% load
  
• Propane: Varies depending on tank size, but generally longer due to larger volume availability
  

While newer models may offer larger fuel tanks, the dual-fuel design here allows for flexible operation, especially in extended outages or during travel.

Load Capacity Test Results

Powered by a 224cc 4-stroke engine, this unit delivers:

• Gasoline: 4375 surge watts / 3500 running watts
  
• Propane: 3950 surge watts / 3150 running watts
  

We tested it with several high-demand appliances:

Appliance	Surge (W)	Running (W)
15,000 BTU RV A/C	3500	1500
Coffee Maker	1740	1740
½ HP Air Compressor	1600	975
½ HP Water Pump	1000	2100
Sump Pump (½ HP)	1050	2150
Space Heater	1800	1800
Lighting + TV	–	1800

Every device listed above ran smoothly on both gasoline and propane. This generator handles a standard RV or home setup with ease but isn’t designed for running heavy-duty appliances all at once.

Noise Test

The manufacturer rates this unit at 68 dB from 23 feet, but we found that under a 75% load, it actually ranges between 71–74 dB at 25 feet.

Tip: Position the generator 40–50 feet away from your RV or home for quieter operation.

Parallel Capability

This model is not parallel-compatible. If you need more power or plan to run multiple large appliances simultaneously, consider a generator with parallel capability or a higher wattage unit.

Maintenance & Warranty

Routine maintenance includes oil and air filter changes, seasonal storage prep, and carburetor cleaning. Champion backs this generator with a 3-year limited warranty and lifetime technical support, with service centers located across the U.S.

Environmental Safety

Certified by both EPA and CARB, this generator meets strict emission standards, making it a safe choice for both the user and the environment.

Pros and Cons

What We Like:

• Compact and portable (for its category)
  
• Strong and consistent voltage output
  
• Dual fuel compatibility
  
• RV-ready with 30A outlet
  
• Impressive runtime
  
• Reliable cold starts
  
• 3-year warranty with solid support
  
• Affordable pricing
  

What We Don’t:

• A bit loud under load
  
• Wheel kit not included
  
• No parallel support
  

Who Should Buy It?

The Champion 3500-Watt Dual Fuel Generator is a great choice for:

• RV users needing a reliable power source
  
• Homeowners who want backup power for essentials
  
• Anyone looking for a mid-range generator with dual fuel flexibility
  

While it can run high-demand appliances like 15,000 BTU A/C units and space heaters, it can’t power multiple heavy appliances simultaneously.

Comparison With Alternatives

Feature	Champion 3500W	Generac iQ3500	Briggs & Stratton S3500
Weight	104.9 lbs	109.1 lbs	115 lbs
Watts (Start/Run)	4375 / 3500	3500 / 3000	4375 / 3500
Noise Level	68–74 dB	60–63 dB	70–75 dB
Fuel Tank	3.4 gal	2.6 gal	5 gal
Runtime @ 50%	9–10 hrs	8.9 hrs	14 hrs
Fuel Type	Gasoline/Propane	Gasoline	Gasoline
Parallel Ready	No	Yes	No
RV Ready	Yes	No	Yes

FAQs

Can this generator run an entire house?
Only if you’re powering basic appliances like lights, fans, and a refrigerator. For whole-house needs or central air, opt for a more powerful unit.

What’s the runtime on a full tank of gasoline?
Expect 9–10 hours at 50% load. Propane runtimes can be longer, depending on the tank size.

Can it run a 15,000 BTU air conditioner?
Yes, easily – it draws around 1500 watts while running.

What’s the amp rating?
On gasoline: 36.5 starting amps / 29.2 running amps at 120V.

If you’re after a reliable, dual fuel generator for home or RV use, the Champion 3500-Watt is a top contender in its class. While not perfect, its strong performance, affordability, and ease of use make it a smart investment for many users.