Do you have a Champion dual fuel generator but don't know how to start it? You've landed on the right page. We researched how to start this generator, and here is what we've learned.
To start a Champion Dual Fuel Generator, you need to:
- Choose the fuel that you're going to use. If it's gasoline, put enough gas in the tank. If it's propane, make sure the propane tank is connected to the generator properly.
- Put oil in the right compartment.
- Turn on the appropriate switch on the Fuel Selector Switch.
- Turn the Battery and Ignition switches on.
- Put the Choke lever on the Choke position.
- Push the start button on the Ignition switch.
- Turn the Choke lever to the Run position once the engine starts running.
- Wait for the generator to stabilize.
- Plug in your electric appliances.
Keep on reading to learn more about how to start your Champion dual fuel generator properly using gasoline or LPG. We'll also teach you how to start it manually. This article also answers how long this generator will run. Let's get down to business!
How do you start a dual fuel Champion generator?
A dual fuel generator like Champion is a good choice since it allows you to choose between LPG or gasoline as your power source. It's always good to have options. You never know when the gas station will run out of gas, especially if power has been down for days. You can even store your stock of propane tanks for emergencies like this.
The Champion dual fuel generator has an innovative Fuel Selector Switch that gives you this option right away. There's no need to make any modifications to convert your unit to do this. Just take note that the wattage output will be different depending on which fuel you're using, as gasoline has a higher wattage than propane.
Check out this 7500-watt Champion dual fuel generator on Amazon.
The Champion dual fuel generator also offers other features to increase its functionality and make it easier for you to use it whenever the need arises. You can power it up manually or use an electric start depending on your convenience.
Its IntelliGauge function allows you to monitor the run time, voltage, and Hertz. It also comes with Volt Guard to protect your generator from power surges and overloading. It also has a low oil shut-off sensor which means it won't start when the oil level is below the recommended amount. Its Cold Start Technology makes it possible for you to use it right away despite freezing temperatures which is usually the time when you need a generator the most.
You can use your Champion dual fuel generator to power your essential appliances during emergencies or to enjoy the comforts of home when you go on vacation in an off-grid location. The capacity will depend on the model that you'll buy.
But of course, you need to know how to use it before you can enjoy these benefits. So, without much further ado, we're here to teach you how to get your Champion dual fuel generator started.
First, go through the Quick Start Guide that came with your unit. This will familiarize you with the parts of the generator and where they are located. Next, follow these steps depending on the fuel that you're using.
How to Start a Champion Dual Fuel Generator using Gasoline
- Place the generator on a flat, level surface outdoors that is also well-ventilated. Leave a clearance of at least 3 feet on all sides. Make it 5 feet if there are combustible materials around.
- Check if there is a substantial amount of oil. Fill it up if there's no oil yet. Make sure you use the recommended oil for good performance. Put the oil fill cap securely in place.
- Put the recommended fuel in the designated tank. Use unleaded fuel. The minimum octane rating is 85 and its ethanol content should not be higher than 9%. Do not overfill and make room for gas expansion.
- Disconnect any electrical loads on the generator.
- Turn the Battery switch on.
- Turn the Ignition switch on.
- On the Fuel Selector Switch, choose whether you're using propane (LPG) or gas. If you're using gas, turn the propane switch off then turn the Fuel valve on so that it can flow to the engine.
- Move the Choke lever to the Choke position.
- Press the Ignition switch to start.
- Slowly pull the starter cord about 3 to 5 times to prime the engine then pull it quickly one to two times.
- Turn the Choke lever to the Run position when you feel the engine starting.
- Give the generator's engine a few minutes to stabilize.
- Plug in your electrical devices. Be mindful of your generator's capacity to prevent overloading. This will vary depending on the model.
How to Start a Champion Dual Fuel Generator using a Propane Tank
- Put oil in the appropriate tank.
- Remove any load on the control panel.
- Check if the propane tank is connected to the generator properly. Straighten out any kinks or pinches on the hose. Position the propane tank on the front left side of the generator opposite from the exhaust.
- On the Fuel Selector Switch, choose LPG and turn the respective valve to the On position. Make sure the Fuel valve on the Gas switch is in the Off position.
- Turn the knob of the propane tank to the Open position.
- Turn the Choke dial to the Run position.
- Turn the Battery switch to the On position.
- Put the Ignition switch in the On position then push and hold the Start button. This will make your generator run so you can begin using it.
Watch this video on how to start up your Champion dual fuel generator for your reference.
How do I manually start a Champion Dual Fuel Generator?
- To start the generator manually, pull the recoil starter. Prime the engine by slowly pulling the starter cord. Do this about 3 to 5 times.
- Turn the Choke lever this time to the Propane Run position at the other end of the dial.
- Quickly pull the starter cord 1 to 2 times to get the unit started.
If the generator doesn't start, check your connections and make sure that there's enough propane or gasoline in your tank.
For maintenance, it is recommended that you use the generator every other month even for at least 20 minutes just to keep its parts running. Make sure the gas is full even when in storage. Check the manual for other storage and maintenance tips.
How To Stop the Engine of a Champion Dual Fuel Generator
When the power is back up, it's time to turn the generator off. Here's how to do it.
- Turn the fuel valve to the Off position.
- Turn off the Ignition switch.
- Turn off the Battery switch.
- Wait for the engine to stop naturally until all the residual fuel is consumed.
- If you use propane gas, turn the propane tank's knob to the Close position. Remove the hose connection and store it properly in a cool and dry place.
Make sure you consult the manual regarding the proper maintenance and storage of your Champion dual fuel generator so that you can take good care of it and extend its lifespan.
How long will a Champion dual fuel generator run?
Champion has a wide range of dual fuel generators that would cater to your particular power needs. Their run time will depend on their fuel tank capacity, starting and running watts, and the electrical load that they carry.
As mentioned earlier, using gasoline will put out more wattage output than propane. The starting and running watts will depend on the model. Meanwhile, the electrical load depends on the appliances that you'll plug into the generator. Take note that some appliances consume more energy than others.
For example, if you have a 7500-watt dual fuel generator, it is expected to run for 8 hours on gasoline if the electrical load is only at 50% and its 6.5-gallon fuel tank is full. Its starting watts are 9375 while the running watts are 7500. But if you use a 20 lb. propane tank, it can only provide power for about 5.5 hours since it needs 8400 starting watts and 6750 running watts.
If you're using the 3800-watt dual fuel generator, it can give you 9 hours for the same electrical load if its 3.4-gallon fuel tank is full. This unit has starting watts at 4750 and running watts at 3800. With a 20 lb. propane tank, it will run for 10.5 hours since it has starting watts at 4275 and running watts of 3240.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to start your Champion dual fuel generator is the key to enjoying all the benefits that it has to offer. Know how to use it with both fuel options, so you're prepared for emergencies at home or when you take it with you on a much-needed vacation.
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