A-iPower SUA8250E Portable Generator
This A-iPower generator review is a newer entry into the portable generator arena. The established brands better take notice. A-iPower is known for manufacturing quality portable generators, but also such power equipment as pressure washers, water/chemical/trash pumps, and tillers. It’s unfortunate that the company name gets all sorts of mis-identified names. The most common is ai power or ai generators, but I’ve seen a-i power and a-i generators. A quick web search will confirm this.
They often get confused with the brand All Power Generators. But whatever name you call it, and however you’ve found this site, you can be certain that you’ve found a make of quality portable generators.
When studying this brand, you may find their various generator models with different prefixes. Their newest line starts with the letters SUA. Their original line by only SU. You may be able to find the older models at possibly a cheaper price as dealers seek to update their inventory. The newer versions have slight modifications, but you will be pleased with either.
You can browse the pages of Amazon and see the physical differences between the SUA and the older SU models.
The quickest way to tell which version you are looking at is the hardened steel tube cradle (frame) for the SUA models is silver/gray, where the SU models have all red. Additionally, the power panels are on the “front” of the SUA line (width dimension) and on the “side” (length dimension) of the SU line. The SUA models have outlet protector coverings whereas the SU models do not.
The company is headquartered in the Los Angeles area in Ontario, California with Chinese made engines. Nearly all generator companies use the Chinese made engines in this size range and there should be no stigma associated with it. The company can be reached via email at support@a-ipower.com and their full line of products can be viewed on their website www.a-ipower.com.
Review the comparison chart below for the popular models. The SUA models are listed here, but the SU models will vary in features only slightly if at all. Some of those differences will be described later.
A-iPower Generator Comparison Chart
All of the models on this page have dual 120/240 volt capability. The last few rows of the table are features listed for your benefit and are the same for all models (e.g. oil shutdown, hour meter, gasoline gauge, and wheels. Prices for these models range from just under $400 to just under $1000. You may find the discontinued SU prefix models with very similar features.
MODEL SUA4000 SUA5750E SUA7500E SUA8250E SUA12000E
Running Watts
3250 watts 5250 watts 6000 watts 7250 watts 9000 watts
Surge Watts 3750 watts 5700 watts 7000 watts 8250 watts 12000 watts
Engine Displacement 208cc 389cc 420cc 420cc 459cc
Horse Power 7 HP 13 HP 14 HP 14 HP 16 HP
Tank Size 4 gal 7 gal 7 gal 7 gal 7 gal
Starting
Manual/
RecoilElectric/
RecoilElectric/
RecoilElectric/
RecoilElectric/
Recoil
Outlet 120V
5-20R
(4) Two Duplex (4) Two Duplex (4) Two Duplex (4) Two Duplex (4) Two Duplex
Outlet 120V
L5-30R0 1 1 1 1
Outlet 120V/240V
L14-30R1 1 1 1 0
Outlet 120/240V
L14-50R0 0 0 0 1
Outlet DC
12VNo No No No Yes
Run Time
@ 1/2 Load13 Hours 10.5 Hours 8.5 Hours 8.5 Hours 7 Hours
Reported dB NA 73 dB 74 dB 75 dB NA
Low Oil Alert/
ShutdownYes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Run Time Meter Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Gas Gauge Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Wheel Kit Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
A-iPower Generator Power Ratings
The first thing you notice is the ratings and naming of the particular models. A-iPower names their models based on their surge watt ratings like DuroStar and DuroMax. Companies like Generac and Westinghouse name their models based on their generator’s running watts. A less ambiguous naming system is used by Champion, WEN and others who use their own system of model numbers.
A-iPower SUA3500 Portable Generator
To add to the confusion, the SUA4000 has a maximum watt rating of 3750 watts, not 4000 watts. The SUA7500E has a surge rating of only 7500 watts. The SUA8250E and SUA12000E are named consistently with their surge ratings of 8250 and 12000 watts respectively.
The available model SUA3500 is not listed on the chart, since it differs from the SUA4000 only in 250 running watts and 250 surge watts. The 3500 model also has only one set of duplex 5-20R outlets vs. two sets for the 4000 model. The retail price difference is only about $50. I’m guessing that one or the other will be phased out.
The SUA3500 model is pictured on the left. If not for the power panel, it is difficult to tell the different units from one another.
What They Have in Common
A-iPower SUA4000 Portable Generator
You can see by the comparison chart that all of the models have important features standard. They all come with a wheel kit. Let’s face it, generators are heavy, even the smaller ones. Thank you A-iPower for thinking of us.
Like all portable 4-cycle engine generators, we need to add oil. It is recommended to fill the easily accessible oil reservoir with 10W-30 motor oil. The oil comes with the units so your’re ready to go when you get it. Just add gas, regular unleaded is fine. These generators have the safety feature of a low oil warning light should your oil level get dangerously low. The units will shut off before you can damage the generator due to low oil level.
Of course regular maintenance of portable generators includes changing of the oil, air filter, spark plug, etc. The maintenance won’t rely on guesswork regarding when to do it. Each of these generator come with a run-time meter to easily track usage. Thank you again A-iPower for thinking of the important things to keep the unit running in tip-top condition.
What about the Engines?
You can see on the chart that the engine size varies, producing varying horsepower in their overhead valve, air cooled engines. As you would expect, as the engine sizes increase, so does their fuel consumption. You’ll notice that the models above 5000 watts have a 7 gallon tank (with fuel gauge). When run at 1/2 load, their run times vary between 7 hours and 10.5 hours for the 7 gallon tank. That’s not bad. The 4 gallon tank on the 4000 model can run for a nice 13 hours at 1/2 load. That’s all through the night during a power outage without refueling.
A-iPower SUA7500E Portable Generator
All A-iPower generators are EPA approved for emissions, and components UL approved. These units are also CARB compliant for our friends in California.
Another side effect of engine size is engine noise. The muffler and it’s included spark arrestor do an adequate job. However the reported decibels for these units is a bit higher than for other similar sized brands.
Reading decibels can be subjective as you can read about on the article on this site called What is the Quietest Generator? For example, the SUA7500 is rated at 74 dB, whereas the Westinghouse WH7500E with the same 420cc engine is rated at 70 dB.
The models that end with “E” (those above 5000watts) all have electric starts and each has it’s included starting battery. Electric start is a comfort that I like and is a real benefit to the elderly or who may otherwise have a strength issue.
At this time I don’t know if the starter battery is charged while the unit is running. If not, you’ll need to keep the starting battery charged with perhaps a trickle charger.The recoil starter is reported by consumers as a one-pull easy start if you can’t use the electric start for any reason.
How About the Outlets?
All generators by any company have the standard 5-20R outlets like you find in any home or office in the US. Except for the SUA3500 which has only two, the other A-iPower models all have two duplexes, or 4 outlets of this type.
All four of the electric start models have the 120v L5-30R, the locking three prong, 30 amp receptacle. Except for the largest model, the others have the very popular 120/240v L14-30R receptacle for extra amp delivery needs. The large SUA12000E actually does not have that one, but it has the even larger L14-50R. That’s right 50 amp. That is rare in models in this range. At 120v, you can deliver 100 amps!
A-iPower SUA12000E Portable Generator
Now before we get too excited, you’ll want to note that the breaker for this model is only 33amps, so you might not be able to deliver more than 8000 watts. Remember the formula: 240volts times 33amps equals 7920 watts.
The SUA12000E is the only model in the line that offers a DC receptacle. It’s a nice feature to have, but unless you are using the generator for other purposes, firing it up JUST to use the DC is a huge waste of energy.
a-I Power recently came out with a 2000 watt inverter. I hope to evaluate this one soon. You can take a peek at it on their website www.a-ipower.com. If the rest of their line is any indication, that one should be a winner too.
For a good review of generator receptacles and the generator cords that should be used to safely and efficiently power your electrical devices, check out the article on this site, Extension Cords for Portable Generators.
Some of the differences in the introduction of the SUA line is the addition of the higher wattage SUA12000E. Let’s hope that the introduction of DC will carry into the lower wattage models in the future.
The larger “never flat” wheels is an improvement, as is the weather covers over the electrical outlets. Overall, A-iPower generators are here to stay and will remain a viable alternative to the big brands as long as they keep to their attention to detail and quality workmanship.
Summary
As this is a newer entry into the portable generator marketplace, there is not a great deal of consumer reviews on which to search or assign a star rating to. The A-iPower line is however one of the most searched generators which tells you, word of mouth is a very powerful marketer.
These are beautiful, functional generators who have an eye on the competition and produce their generators accordingly. Their customer service is better than most and very responsive. I think the A-iPower portable generators are here to stay and will remain a viable choice for years to come.
As usual, Amazon is the most likely place to get this or any portable generator at the best price. You can view the various models, features and pricing here.
Filed under: A-iPower • Reviews
bought the ai 5 days ago a bit on the noisey side but it’s a powerful machine, any sug gestion on how to make it quite
A-iPower uses Chinese made engines. Even though they undergo meticulous assembly, it’s still the same engine that several manufacturers use and you are stuck with the muffler that was chosen for the model. There are a few common fixes, but will depend on how and where you use your generator. The first is the simplest, and I’m not trying to be funny. Move it farther away from where you are and get longer generator cords. Second, you can get or make a portable enclosure with sound dampening materials. If you opt for this make sure that there is adequate ventilation around the unit and that it is not an enclosed box. Third, the muffler can either be replaced or altered. You can extend the exhaust and attach an automotive type muffler. There is a great YouTube video showing how to do this. And finally, and I am trying to be funny here, get some earplugs! Good Luck. -Ray
lol, thanks Ray,in terms of maintenance ,the manual says check the valve clearance i’m trying to figure out what and where on the sua 4000 is this valve or should i get a professional to do this
Unless you are technically inclined with engines, yes have a professional check you valve clearance. Yes it could need adjustment after heavy use over time. I’m not saying don’t worry about it, but you can call customer service and ask them what physically you would notice should the valve need adjustment. Here is a site that gives you an idea if you have the ability to tackle this yourself. http://www.centuryperformance.com/valve-adjustment-procedure.html
Hi Ray my neighbor borrowed my manual because she’s was interested in getting one,I need it now to see what’s the procedure for storage and she can’t find it, help.
Hi Cheryl,
You can contact A-iPower to get their recommendations for storage, but in general…
Depending on how long you plan to store it (3 months or more), if you keep the gas in the tank (not recommended), make sure that you have fuel stabilizer in the gas according to directions. Otherwise you could get gas water separation.
Better still, empty the gas then run your generator until it stops to get all the gas out of the carburetor.
You can remove the spark plug and treat the business end with a bit of oil.
You can cover to keep dust off but make sure there is ventilation so any remaining vapor doesn’t accumulate.
If it’s electric start, keep battery charged.
keep it in a dry location.
Can drain oil.
Can clean air filter.
Hope this helps.
Look up storage of generator on line for more ideas.
Ray
Thanks Ray
Hi a tip to quiet a gen up is to angle some wood or fireproof sheet rock. On the gen. Lean it out like a tee-pee
And that will reflect the sound back into the ground
Bought the sua 12000 couple weeks ago. had 2 day power outage,connected this baby to the panel,ran flawlessly!!Runs all my 240v pumps water heater everything!Excellent unit!!!
Hi Tim,
This speaks to the quality of the A-iPower generators.
Sorry for the power outage, but glad for your results.
Ray
Were can I buy an air filter for it
Hi Scott,
Do you need the whole air filter housing or just the filter?
It’s often best to contact the company and ask. If they have the replacement they’ll try to sell you theirs.
Depending on what they say, you might be able to use an easily available substitute.
According to their website as of this date, their email contact is support@a-ipower.com.
Telephone number 626-888-3598
You can reach them M-F 9-5PM, located in California.
Good Luck,
Ray
Hi, Ray,
I’m looking to buy an i-power SUA 10000 ec generator for welding purposes. Will this generator handle a “mig” (welding requiring a filler rod to produce a weld bead, usually used for steel) welding job? The requirement for the actual welding unit is an 220V. The standard 110V will not sufficed, which is the basis for my question.
Thanks,
Ray
Hey Ray,
Your question is beyond my knowledge base. I’d hate to give you inaccurate information when such a large investment is involved. I suggest that you contact A-iPower for your answer. I’ve found them to be quick with their customer service and they are the expert in the capabilities of their units.
You can email them at support@a-ipower.com or call them M-F at 626-888-3598. Good Luck.
Ray
Hello from Panama. I strongly recommend you to not do it. Normal welders requires at least 35amps as entry electricity and the generator breaker is for 30amps.Unless you use an inverter welder like dewalts which requires 23amps.
For such amount of investment you better get a lincoln power moto welding machine which works as generator as well.
Hi Ray, I just purchased an Ai SUA10000 / 8200 model. Any customer feedback on their experience with this unit that I should know about (good or bad). Thanks
Hey Don,
These units are well liked for their solid construction. As long as you don’t try to draw close to it’s max running watts (8200) from it’s 250V/50A 4 prong outlet, It has a 36A breaker. It’s interesting to note that the 9000 unit has a 3 prong 120V/30A that the 10000 does not. Why? Because it has the 50A? Also 78 decibels is a bit loud, but you have a ton of power.
I’m sure you’ll be happy with the quality and customer service should you need it.
Ray
I’m curious as to why the SUA12000 only has a 33A breaker (240V), woudn’t 12000W require a 50A breaker or at the very least 37.5A to account for running amps especialy since the outlet is 50A capacity.
That is an excellent question. And has been asked of A-iPower in the past. The benefit is that you can use the 50Amp cord (who actually has one?) even though you won’t be able to fully utilize the capacity. Perhaps they have made some changes. Let me ask them again.
Ray
I’m picking up a SUA12000E tomorrow, I was hesitant since price was low compared to others but I read almost nothing but good reviews. Hopefully I can find a way to utilize the full capacity. Maybe use both the 240V and 120V connected on the same network. Or replace the breaker with a larger one since the unit is rated for it anyways.
Just bought sua 12000, how much oil goes in the engine, I put the full bottle that came with it, 1000 ml and the oil is far from touching the oil stick? Do I stop there or buy another bottle and keep adding oil to the full line? Thanks
Rick, it is important that the oil level reaches the indicator. If it didn’t, it won’t need much more. Just match the oil type. The manual doesn’t have the oil capacity listed. You can contact support@a-ipower.com if you need further information.
Ray
The manual doesn’t list the oil capacity because the manual is generic, and not specific to any particular model. The A-iPower site has web pages for each model. Each page has a Specifications tab. Engine Oil Capacities are listed there.
http://www.a-ipower.com/generators/
I recently purchased an A-1Power 9000/12000 generator model SUA12000E. Living in Canada, recent winters have always included power outages due to ice storms. Living in a rural area, I needed the extra output to run utilities such as well water pumps and sump pumps along with a propane fired water heaters and two furnaces. After doing some research online including your informative articles, I now find out that there are two versions of this particular generator,the original SUA 12000E and now an SUA 12000 ECSA only sold in Canada. I cannot however find any information on what the actual difference(s)is/are. Can you advise me in that regard?
This information I don’t know Ron. Have you tried contacting A-iPower in California?
Ray
The EC model THD (total harmonic distortion) is advertised at less than 5%. This is critical for electronic devices such as tv’s, computers, laptops, furnaces with electronic control etc. Did a lot of reasearch before buying my A-iPower SUA10000EC. Lot of generators on the market not all have a THD less than 5% if the do the price goes up accordingly. The A-iPower EC generators for the price are a good buy.
This brand of generator is very new, I haven’t seen one up close, but by looking at it, it is not built for the long run. I have seen the DuroMax, Duropower, Champion, All Power, United Power, Kipor, Westinghouse and many more. Not sure whose really behind them, but I is all about quality control, anything can be made in China and look good, but to actually be good is a complete different story. One thing is for sure is that you get what you paid for only, there’s no such thing as a bargain or deal. Many things can’t be seen, like for example the quality of the alloy use to cast the engines, the quality of the casting isn’t that great, the units are not that heavy, not because they thought about not making them heavy, but more because they use plastic wherever they can and use the bare minimum thickness or quality steel to build them. None of the Chinese units can be really worked on well, parts are not all the same, even for the same model. If you like to check if it is easy to trace a wiring problem, the wires are mixed and matched, some are using the color that was available when they built the unit. Loctite doesn’t exist in China, so expect to lose nuts and bolts here and there. Paint is the cheapest that exist, welds are not strong either. Believe me I have seen 100’s of the no name brands and they don’t even come close to the old Tecumseh or Briggs that were noisy and not fuel efficient, but they lasted forever and units were easy to fix. Now units from China are disposable units and don’t expect to go 500hours. If you don’t have the means of buying a well known brand name, which was at least design and met the quality control of that old US company. You will end up spending more overall I swear over a 10yr period and will swear at the unit because it will give you problems and you will likely not get much help. Some might say wow, this guy doesn’t like the no name brands, I’ll be honest I don’t, because none were able to convince me that they could do the job. When I’m talking about doing the job, I mean 50+ hours without a problem. Some will say all are made in China now, I agree that a lot, but again go with an old company well known, since they have a lot to lose vs a company that just decided to privately label a unit. You’re better to get a 5000W from a 30+ years in business than a 10000W from a company that just showed up. It is better to power half the equipment than none! Look at who manufactures them behind, Lifan, Launtop, Sanding, Ducar, Wuxi etc… because Westinghouse don’t manufacture generators anymore, Generac only the XP and not the GP is solid. Everything looks the same, but nothing is for real. Otherwise they would sell for more, because it be more expensive to manufacture quality and have testing and quality control which most don’t have at all. There’s nothing better than a worker that knows and understand what he/she is doing, but China came from a long way, but is still behind in terms of quality level. A 2-3 star here is definitely a 5 star in China. So go with Honda, Yamaha, Subaru, Briggs and Stratton, Makita with good engines even used you’ll be ahead than a no name (generic) brand.
Posted for our readers. Mike took the time to write this. It is his opinion and the posting of this is for your information only and does not reflect the views of this site, nor has the information contained been verified for accuracy.
Ray
I have a no name brand (Dong Fang) 3500 peak watt Chinese generator that I purchased at an auto parts store at least 15 years ago that has worked perfectly through all of the power outages we have had here in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California. The main thing to remember with any Chinese made piece of equipment is that maintenance is critical if you plan on keeping it for any length of time. I am a retired heavy equipment mechanic and am very anal about taking care of what I have, being of limited income things like this are appealing to those of us who are in the same boat.
Thanks for you comments. And remember, we’re only as old as we feel.
Ray
You are correct Sir. Everything will last if maintained correctly and I know several people who have purchased The A-ipower units are as good as any and opinions are like Holes everyone has one.
Mike, your first sentence makes no sense. “This brand of generator is very new, I haven’t seen one up close, but by looking at it, it is not built for the long run.” I own the A-iPower SUA 12,000E. If you haven’t seen one up close, you must be looking at a picture. First of all it weighs well over 200 pounds and is very sturdy. Secondly, it runs like a charm with plenty of power and all the outlets you need. In my opinion, as an owner, I would recommend this generator to anyone that is shopping around. During Irma, at the height of the storm we lost power. The electric start was really appreciated while starting it out in the elements. It started right up, and ran for the next 8 days, 24/7. Made 3 oil/filter changes and it operated outstanding. If you haven’t even seen one how can you make a judgement?
My wife and I bought two sua2300i 1800 running, and 2300 surge watts inverter generators, which can be hooked up parallel if needed. Living off grid in my RV, I have run a single generator for heat, refrigerator, lights, TV, and after bed, a heater, CPAP, and a fan etc. Tank holds 1.1 gallons, and overnight with only fridge, CPAPS, fan, and occasionally a light or two – I have had one run for over 11 hours! Running AC, and my other night stuff I have gotten 8 to 9+ hours on both depending on the temperature. It can go down to 7 hours if it’s in the 90’s. One of these has over 600 hours with 100 hour oil changes, and the other has over 300 hours with a similar maintenance schedule. Both continue to run great, and I expect them to do so for some time till I can get a larger generator for the summer. Hopefully one that will run dual fuel. For these inverter generators I paid $400 each plus tax. I have heard that a lot of these small generators will only last about 500 hours, but the average user that’s probably not too bad. When you need a generator $400 for 500 hours of electricity could be a good deal. Personally I think these things will last at least a couple thousand hours, but only time will tell. Regular maintenance is essential to make any small engine last. In closing, the best way to put one of these things up for storage is to run it out of gas completely get some canned 4-stroke gas from Walmart or wherever, and put a little bit of that in there and run it for a bit to clear out the car and then leave it stored with enough gas in it that it won’t all evaporate. If you prefer after you put some in there you can just run it through run it out and leave it dry; because the key and gas does not come up your carburetor like the stuff out of the pump will. Yes a can of that gas cost about 20 bucks a gallon but it’s worth it if you don’t have to take the stupid thing in and get the car cleaned out every time you want to use it, which can be a real problem when you want to use it in an emergency. Just my experience, your mileage may vary good luck.
Hi ray I need to replace the sparkplug for the generator but I’m having problems getting it, can an auto vehicle plug work instead?
Hi Cheryl,
Your manual will have the plug type listed. Take that to your auto parts store and have them match it.
Ray
I would like to have the valve clearance for my sua4500 ipower generator I checked my manual but haven’t seen any info. Can you send me the info.
Hi Ashton,
I appreciate your question, however I am not an expert in any particular generator. Please contact A-iPower customer support listed in this article. I’m sorry I don’t have the information that you need. Good luck.
Ray
I have the 1200 generator when I picked it up from local tsc store in Orangeville ontario canada it started but was not generating any power was told to call A I power talk to the tech it was determined that a wire was not connected took cover off and a white wire was not connected I plugged it in put the cover back on started it and it worked a few weeks ago power went out but motor was still running tried to turn it off and the switch was not working add to use the choke in order to turn the motor off I then took the switch cover off and more wires were disconnected I then took the black cover off the generator part and that same white wire was also disconnected I have been calling A I power for 3 weeks now to get a wire schematics on were the 3 wires on the switch , on witch tabs the wire connect to and the tech as not done it yet I am not very happy with the way your company handles issues I feel that TSC and Ai power customer service is none existent.
Thank you for your comments and I can sense your frustration. Usually customer service departments are more helpful. What concerns me is that the wires are not fully secure. This should NOT happen…ever. Your comments here will serve other potential A-iPower buyers. I hope that you get the information that you need. And keep us updated. Good luck.
Ray
I have an SUA 10000 EC. The electric start works intermittently. The battery is fully charged. It pull starts fine. Usually when you push the start button, it only clicks. Noone responds at the Tech service number or emails.
Thanks for your relating your experience Gib.
Hi ray I need to replace the spark plug. Can you please tell me what make and model the ai carry. Thanks
Although many brands will work, it is best to contact A-iPower directly for their recommendation. Then you can go to a parts store and ask the attendant for a replacement.
Ray
I ray I picked up a sua8250ea. Any idea what the ea at the end means?
Electric start “E”
Carb compliant or not? “A”
To be sure you can contact A-iPower:
Phone: 909-923-2068
Fax: 909-930-3719
Email: support@a-ipower.com
Let us know,
Ray
Hi Ray
Bought a AI 8250E in December 17 and just using it April 4 after ice storm. I broke it in by running 20 minutes once a week and am now putting it to the test.
Seems to be running good and had to change oil after 5 hours continuous run time. Good thing I changed oil as it was pretty black. Was easy to do and one liter 10W30 fill to halfway up dipstick.
The 30 amp breaker has flipped a couple of times when I overloaded but otherwise has run steady. I’m running forced air furnace, two baseboard heaters, 4 or 5 lights throughout the house, 2 TVs, fridge, freezer, sump pump and well pump, laptop and several phone chargers.
I’ve been filling the gas tank every 5 hours, so I must be close to running at max.
Can you tell me if this generator is built to run nonstop for 24 hours or more straight ?
Do you need to give it downtime?
Thanks
Mark
Hi Mark,
You are certainly getting your money’s worth out of your generator.
In general it is good to change the oil early in a new generator to clear out the “manufacturing residue” as you did notice it was pretty bad.
Also, please use a surge protector when charging your electronics. They usually have fuses in your chargers, but those must be replaced rather than just resetting your surge protector.
As far as continuous running, whether the quality AiPower machines or not, they are machines after all. Although it could run for several days (with occasional down time for gas refill)
Make sure that the cooling system is operating (although in an ice storm it’s probably pretty cold).
Ray
Can I get an extended fuel tank for my 12000 A-iPower generator
Can any of our readers confirm the availability of extended fuel tanks? Procedure? Safety?
Has anyone bought the 15000 watt model I can’t find many reviews on this unit. Please help
Who can help Charles with this?
I have a 12000 ai power,they recommend 5-hour break in then change the oil. I’ve read a better way to Breakin a generator is to run it for one hour, drain the oil running for another hour, drain the oil then switch to a full synthetic, what are the thoughts on this folks?
There is no doubt that these are good generators i just sold my Hyundai and bought an A-power sua-12000E-csa. it’s run 6 hours so far and powered my house and garage with no problem -35 Celsius.i had a lot of problems finding info on the engine, then i found this ( http://www.senci.co.uk/ ). they are still rated very well for quality and price.it seems they are actually senci generators with a few appearance changes overall i’m very pleased with it. Made in America doesn’t always mean what you think.
I’m looking at the A-iPower SUA13000EFI and trying to find more information on it. The specs indicate a 69db sound level, <5% THD and fuel injected which is all great. But, it's so new there are few reviews. Anything you can add?
Does anyone know what the main breaker size is for the SUA13000EFI?
Hello. I am thinking about getting a SUA12000ED as a backup. I live in a condo Community (townhouse). Is this generator be too loud? I have nothing behind my unit, just water and marshes. My concern, would it be too loud for my neighbors?
Thanks
Hi Mathew,
You are wise to consider a backup generator, especially if your area is prone to outages. Normally, that size generator can be overkill if you were only to use it for non-emergency normal household requirements. That said, yes the size generator you mention is loud. But so would be all generators at 10,000 watts and above.
You are kind to consider your neighbors. There are a few things you can do to lessen the noise effect on you and your neighbors. You can keep the unit as far away from the living areas as possible (it’s good you have room to extend in back if it is accessible to you). Long cords are a possibility, but they are expensive, and you may lose some power, the longer they are. You may find that it you run it on a typical condo patio, it will be loud AND you will want to be cautious of the fumes entering your living area.
You might consider building a safe, ventilated enclosure for your generator. They can be easily built if you are handy with standard tools, or you can purchase an enclosure which may run you a bit more.
Regarding the noise, during a power outage, chances are some of your neighbors may be running generators as well. And some may not be as considerate as you.
Good luck and stay safe,
Ray