Champion 75531i Review

The Champion 75531i Inverter Generator is making its case to be the “go-to” inverter generator in the “must-have” home appliance category. Champion labels their units with the peak watts, in this case it can be known as the Champion 3100.  But they are further described by their model number.

The smaller 2000 watt 73536i model is reviewed on this site and the differences in features and price will play the important role as you decide which will better fit your needs.

You’ll get 2800 rated watts (3100 surge) in this model vs. the 1700 rated watts (2000 surge) in the smaller 73536i, but the latter is capable of being run in parallel with another unit, thereby giving you 3400 running watts.  The parallel attachment allows you to stack the units as well as give you an extra outlet (5L – 30R) that the larger 3100 model does not have.

There are a couple of other models available from Champion Power Equipment that adds some bells and whistles that these standard models do not have.  The 75537i is essentially this reviewed model, but comes with an electric start feature.  You might also find this reviewed model in black that has a USB port and the duplex outlets (5-20R) are upgraded GFCI.

OK, enough about the others.  Lets take a look deeper into this unit.

Take note, the popularity based on consumer reviews for Champion Power Equipment inverters rivals the kings of inverter generators, Honda and Yamaha, but at a much lower price. 

Simple calculations of what you get in this model, vs. what you’ll get by running two of the smaller Champions in tandem, will show you that this model is a wise choice.

Yes this generator is CARB compliant, meaning it is available for purchase in California by meeting its strict emission guidelines. 

Champion Power Equipment is located at 10006 Santa Fe Springs Road, Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670.  Their customer service phone number is 877-338-0999.

Read on for the highlights of this Champion inverter.

The Benefits of Inverter Technology

Of course when you’re looking at inverter generators, you will get the benefits that make them so popular.  For a complete rundown of what an inverter generator is, you can read the article on this site.

The main difference between inverter generators and standard generators is that these produce DC power that must be converted by an inverter to AC power.  It is AC power that is delivered by the unit for use in your household electrical devices.

In a nutshell, when compared to a standard generator, what you get in an inverter is a quieter running, more fuel efficient portable generator that is able to power sensitive electronic equipment due to it’s low Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).  For supplying power to emergency medical equipment, I would consider nothing else.

Inverters are able to power down to idle speed when a load is not being required of it, thus saving on fuel and lowering noise (decibel) levels.

Inverter generators are typically smaller and lighter weight than similar wattage standard generators.

What Can I Power With 2800 Watts?

As with all generators in the US you are getting 120Volts (240 in larger units) at 60 Hz.  You should not attempt to run 50Hz on this unit.  This Champion delivers just over 23 Amps shared between its two 20 amp outlets or from its single 30 amp outlet.

If you are a “need to know” consumer like me, there is an article on this site which explains on an elementary level, what you should know about electricity.

At 3100 watts peak power and 2800 running watts, you will be able to power most devices and tools, as well as keep the necessities such as your refrigerator running during a power outage.  To see what else you can power with this range, check out the handy table on this site.  Basically, some appliances need a bit of extra power when they start or cycle, that is why generators provide extra “surge” watts over their running watts.

While the power is out, you’ll be able to keep your sump pump running along with your refrigerator and have a bit of power left over to keep some lights on.  You should be able to run a window air conditioner unit periodically if you have not many other demands.  You probably would not have enough power to keep your 40 gallon water heater (electric) going as these typically use a lot of power, as do most appliance that provide heat such as stoves or hotplates and hair dryers.

When operating your generator remotely with power tools, it should be able to handle most needs up to an air compressor which  has high surge requirements.  Just use the power for one tool at a time and you should be good to go.

This is a great unit with enough power for lower requirements such as camping, tailgating, or powering individual tools in remote locations.

Engine Type and Fuel Considerations

This generator is powered by a 4 stroke engine with a 171cc displacement in its OHV (overhead valve) design. Its OHV engine runs reliably and dissipates heat efficiently, allowing for both a long life and optimal fuel consumption.  Compare this engine size to the 2000watt model’s 80cc engine and you can assume that this will not struggle at higher loads, but will also be much noisier and nearly twice as heavy.

In fact, the Champion 46539 standard generator (reviewed on this site) generates 4000 watts with their 196cc engine.

The fuel tank is 1.6 gallons (6L).  As with most gas generators with Chinese made engines, it runs on a minimum of 85 octane with no more than 10% ethanol content.  You might remember that these gasoline/ethanol mixtures can separate over time, and the water (especially in gravity fed fuel) can leave watery, gummy deposits in your carburetor.  A good fuel stabilizer is a good idea, especially during periods of inactivity.  It is recommended to start your generator every few weeks and run for 15 minutes during storage if it contains fuel.

With a full tank, you can expect this model to run for 8.5 hours while drawing 1/4 load.  It’s nice to know when you need to run overnight with just the necessities plugged in during a power outage.

The other 2000 watt model has an on/off air vent on the fuel cap and a fuel gauge.  It is not confirmed that the 3100 has the same.  Draining the fuel tank must be done with a siphon, or you can tip the unit over (not recommended).  You can then run the engine to starvation for storage.

What Is the Economy Switch For?

Inverter generators mostly have an economy switch that allows the engine to “power down” when the load is not required.  In a standard generator, the engine runs at the same speed continually, using the same amount of fuel at all times.  This feature can be looked at as an energy conserving device.

When the economy switch is not activated on the control panel, full power is continuously being supplied.  If you have a couple of devices plugged in using the full power, and you disconnect one thereby needed less wattage, then activate the economy control switch, the generator will power down.  This will result in less noise and lower the fuel consumption.  This feature will allow the generator to power down to idle speed if no load is being applied.

This has the added benefit of lengthening the life of the engine.  Remember when a surge will be required, as in a refrigerator which periodically cycles on, you should not have the economy control switch activated.  When using the DC charger, the switch should be off as well.

Is it Easy to Start?

Easy one-pull start

This is a standard pull cord recoil starter.  The handle is conveniently located on the front of the unit where the control panel and gas controls are.  Most consumers report that from a cold start, it takes only one pull to get it running.  That’s nice!

Those same consumers state that it is not as easy to start when the engine is hot or still warm.  By playing with the choke every three pulls or so if not starting, it usually will fire up.  This is not mentioned in the staring directions.  These directions are pretty straightforward:

• Make sure the unit is on a level surface
• Disconnect all electrical loads
• fuel valve on
• choke out to start position
• engine switch turned on
• pull starter cord
• once running smoothly push choke back in to run position

You can now connect loads, select economy if desired, use DC (without economy switch on).

For stopping, disconnect all loads first.  Run for a few minutes with no load.  Turn off fuel valve until unit runs to fuel starvation and stops.  Turn engine switch to off.

Remember to ground any portable generator before use using the grounding terminal – connect to earth line to prevent electric shock. This is recommended with all portable generators, standard and inverter types. However, it is rarely the case in practice as most have a neutral ground bonded to the frame.

It is important to know the safety considerations when operating a portable generator.  The included manual has several pages of precautions.  Know that reckless use and unsafe use can result in injury and death. Check out the article of how to safely use your portable generator on this site.

Special note about operating at high altitude.

Engine power output due to lower air density at altitude can be reduced 3.5% for every 1000 feet elevation.  You may want to consider altering your unit when using it above 3500feet. You can purchase a high altitude carburetor main jet from Champion.  Customer service can assist in installation.  Do not use the high altitude main jet at the lower elevations.  Doing so could damage the engine, reduce fuel efficiency and performance and increase emissions.

Of Course You Need Oil

All 4 stroke engines have a separate oil reservoir.   Champion recommends 10W-30 oil for most ambient conditions.  Other Champion models come with a quart of oil supplied.  This one does not.  That’s not a deal breaker, but it would be a nice touch with little expense to Champion.  They do, however include an oil funnel.  Thanks.

You must remove the back panel to access the oil reservoir.  There you’ll find the fill plug where you can slowly fill the 0.6L (.63 quart) needed.  You can use the dip stick to check oil level.  Be careful.  You don’t want to spill into the housing.  That’s just a mess.

When time to change/drain the oil, there is a 12mm drain bolt.  You’ll have to tip the unit to drain completely.  Remember to change the oil after the first 5 hours of use to remove any metal shavings common in new engines.

Always insure that you have enough oil when operating.  Running without oil can seriously damage the generator.  There is an automatic shut off feature that will turn the engine off if there is not enough oil.  You should never need this feature if you do your due diligence by checking the oil with each use.

The Control Panel

Control Panel

You’ll find all of the controls nicely laid out on the simple control panel.

Placed left to right, the order for starting the generator is just as you’d expect.  The fuel valve knob and choke are side by side.  The start switch and economy control switches are right next to them on the face.

There are three lights easily visible.  The output light will illuminate when power is being supplied to the power outlets.  If you apply too much load (ask for too many watts) the overload light will illuminate blinking and the output light will go out.  Power will then be unavailable.  Shut off the unit and restart and then reduce load.

The third light is the low oil warning light.  When this illuminates, the unit will shut off.  It means that the oil level is dangerously low.  You should never have this happen with diligent observation of operating procedures.

The Outlets

You get a duplex 5-20R outlet.  This is the type that you will find on the walls of your home.  Lower wattage inverter generators often come with a single outlet.  The 30 amp outlet is the 5-30R (RV TT-30R type).  This plug is common in recreational vehicles, thus the RV or TT (travel trailer) designation.  These are a nice combination for most uses in this power range.

The DC outlet is the familiar two prong offset plug.  The included cable is 6 feet with battery terminal clamps on the business end.  Remember to run at full power when using the DC feature.  Do not start the car when the battery is being charged.  This method of charging does not have an automatic shut off.  A stand alone battery charger with shut off or trickle feature makes more sense if possible.

There is a 20A circuit breaker for the 120V outlets and a DC circuit breaker to protect the outlets.

Finally, I would be remiss to not mention that the grounding terminal is also located on the main control panel.  The grounding terminal is connected to frame.  It is always recommended for remote grounding with 12AWG minimum copper wire to a rod in the ground.  The generator stator winding is isolated from the frame and from the AC receptacle ground pin.  Devices requiring a grounded receptacle pin connection will not function if the receptacle ground pin is not functional.

You’ll notice that this unit does not have an hour or volt meter.  These you’ll have to add on yourself if so inclined.

Noise Level – Portability

Easy transport wheels and flip-up handle

The noise level is rated at 58 decibels (dB) when measured at 23 feet.  Many companies do not report how their measurement was taken.  Champion uses the industry standard measuring procedure.  Keep in mind that the dB levels are usually taken at not full load.

For a review of decibels, read What is the Quietest Generator on this site.

At 58 dB it is a bit louder than most of the common lower wattage inverters.  This is due in part to its 171cc engine, nearly twice the size of the 1000 and 2000 watt inverter engines.

Compare the noise level to the 2000 watt standard All Power generator with its 98cc engine and 65 dB rating.

Many consumers report that it is louder than they expected, but still quieter than 3000 watt standard generators.  Standing on the muffler side is much louder than standing on the other side as would be expected, and perhaps an indicator of the muffler quality.  The muffler contains an USFS-approved spark arrester. Clean it once a year and your good for all the creature comforts while camping.

Portability is nice with this inverter.  Although the unit has convenient and strong carrying handles at both ends, at 83 pound (without liquids) it is at the upper end of what most would be able to transport without wheels.   The wheel kit does not need to be assembled (nice).  The flip up handle makes moving this unit around convenient.

The wheels are rubber and not plastic, similar to the wheels on luggage.  They have been reported to be a bit too small.  They roll nicely on a hard surface, but when on soft debris, they can get clogged when the debris gets stuck between the wheel and the housing.  If this happens, you’ll be glad for the convenient carry handles.

Warranty

Champion Power Equipment offers its standard two year limited warranty.  That is one year for defects in parts and labor and two years parts.  For commercial use, these are reduced to 180 days and 90 days respectively.

Of course the life and performance are dependent upon your maintenance.  The maintenance is pretty standard for this unit.

• First oil change after 5 hours
• At 50 hours or every season clean air filter and change oil – the air filter is the pleated paper type
• At 100 hours or every season clean/adjust spark plug -Spark plug gap 0.7 – 0.8mm, clean adjust 100 hours or every season.Plug NHSP F6RTC replace with NGK BPR6ES or equivalent.
• At 100 hours or every season clean spark arrestor
• AT 100 hours or every season clean fuel tank and filter
• See dealer for maintenance on cylinder head, valve clearance
• At 3 years replace fuel line

The maintenance instructions and general operating and safety instructions are very well explained with illustrations in the manual.

Standard storage procedures apply.  Empty the fuel and oil or use fuel stabilizer.  For longer term storage, start without spark plug connected to drain gas from carburetor jets. Change the oil.  Remover spark plug and put small amount oil into the cylinder.  Crank a few times to lubricate the cylinder. Reattach the spark plug.  Make sure that the fuel valve and start switch are off.

Email at: tech@championpowerequipment.com

You can contact Champion Power Equipment at 10006 Santa Fe Springs Road, Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670.  Or at www.championpowerequipment.com 1-877-338-0999.

What’s in the Box

• Champion 75531i Inverter Generator
• 12V DC Battery Cables – 2M long with battery terminal clamps
• Oil funnel
• Spark plug socket
• Instruction Manual

Dimensions/Weight of the Champion 75531i

Dimensions:

• 22.4 inches (L)
• 17.2 inches (W)
• 18.3 inches (H)

Weight:

• 83.8 lbs. (20 Kg)

Pros and Cons Summary

PROS:

• fuel efficient – with economy mode switch
• CARB compliant
• quiet operation – 58 dBA at 7 meters
• DC capability to charge 12V – DC charging cable included
• flip up handle for transport on luggage style wheel
• Spark arrestor

CONS:

• no gas drain – must siphon out
• no dual connectivity
• wheels small for soft ground

Consumer Reviews

The customer review are favorable for this Portable Inverter Generator. In fact in only 90% rated it 5 or 4 Stars on Amazon.com.  A full 75% rated it 5 stars.  And this with over 100 review.  Yes this is an overwhelming YES vote on this inverter.

With the overwhelming popularity and high ratings of this unit, you can rest assured that you will not regret choosing this inverter generator. Just be sure you know your power needs. If the features and price combination match for you, you can’t go wrong.

The presence of so many positive reviews means that consumers are happy and not shy about trumpeting their positive experience with it.  Bottom line, they are happy with it so chances are, you will be too.

Read more consumer reviews directly from Amazon here: Champion 75531i Inverter Review

Average Rating 4.5 Stars

If the Champion 75531i 3100 watt inverter is for you, check out the current price by clicking the button below.

Summary

This is a relatively new entry into the Champion line of inverter generators.  It appears that this one will be here to stay.  If you are one of the famous inverter brands, you had better look over your shoulder on this model.  Yes it has the features of the big boys.  Yes it has a few drawbacks as reviewed.  But there is no doubt about the price benefit.

This Champion inverter costs much less than the popular Yamaha and Honda inverter generators of the same power output.  The features are essentially identical as far as outlets, DC, economy mode switch, etc.  I can only conclude that there must be savings in the materials.  You might expect that this generator would then not last as long or have a number of negative consumer reviews.  The reviews are good.  The durability is good.

I can confirm that this unit IS worth a look.  You can save quite a bit for the same benefit.  Be sure that 2800 running watts are enough for you since you can’t run these parallel.  If you are a dual generator person, this model makes a lot of sense to be one of them.

Filed under: $500 - $999 • Champion • Reviews