The Firman Generator Brand
Firman is a relative newcomer in the power generation industry, but they shouldn’t be overlooked. As a growing company, they manufacture different types of quality generators suited for a variety of tasks.
In this article, we’ll look at some of the best Firman generators, which include conventional, inverter and dual fuel generators. We’ll discuss the pros and cons of each generator and what factors to consider when choosing the right model to buy.
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1. Firman PO3608 4550/3650 Watts Generator
Main Features And Benefits
- Sturdy handle offers better grip
- Automatic power regulator
- Data minder monitors frequency and voltage
The Firman PO3608 generator features 3650 running watts and 4550 starting watts supplied by a 208cc engine that runs cool. It’s easy to start with a remote-operated start key. It has a whisper muffler that keeps the engine running quietly at 68 decibels. Additionally, it has a fuel capacity of 5 gallons, with a long run time of up to 14 hours.
The PO3608 has an automatic voltage controller that provides consistent and reliable output from its Firman power alternator. Its heavy-duty wheel kit and folding handle make it portable and maneuverable. The PO3508 also has indicators to monitor frequency, voltage, hours, and oil level, so you can tell if your generator is operating efficiently.
Pros
- This is a CARB-compliant generator
- Easy to use
- Minimal noise
- Long run time
- Wheels attachment for better portability
Cons
- Tech Support from a different company to Firman
Summary
Easy-to-use and quiet, the Firman PO3608 is a solid choice for a portable generator, with a convenient handle and optional wheels. It also boasts a generous run time of up to 14 hours.
2. Firman WO3082 3300/3000 Watt Generator
Main Features And Benefits
- Comes with all the essential accessories including a manual and plug wrench
- Powerful and lightweight
- Runs quietly
- Powerful inverter
This inverter generator features 3000 running watts and 3300 starting watts with a 171cc Firman engine that supplies power efficiently and runs cool. The Whisper muffler keeps the engine running quietly at 59 decibels. Moreover, it has a fuel capacity of up to 1.8 gallons and offers up to nine hours of operating time. You can power on the generator through the push of the electric start button.
The WO3082 is lighter than most Firman generators, so it offers more flexibility of use. One of the best things about the WO3082 is that it comes with all the accessories you need, including a manual, funnel, bracket wrenches, oil, and plug wrench.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Quiet
- Lightweight
- Reliable
Cons
- Remote feature not reliable
Summary
While the Firman WO3082 is lightweight, easy to use, and comes with handy accessories, it’s noisy and doesn’t provide as much power as it advertises.
3. Firman PO1001 1300/1050 Watts Generator
Main Features And Benefits
- Has protective covers
- Sleeved engine allows long durability
- Minimal noise
- Includes accessories, including oil and battery cable
The Firman PO1001 is the best recoil start generator if you need consistent power you can depend on. Operating on 1050 running watts and 1300 starting watts, its power comes from the 80cc Max Pro Firman engine. The engine runs cool and operates at 63 decibels for minimal noise. With a fuel capacity of 1.3 fuel gallons, it can operate up to nine hours uninterrupted.
The PO1001’s pro series engine offers high performance with lower maintenance. It also comes with essential accessories, including a manual, battery cable, funnel, oil, and spark wrench.
It has an easy-to-use control panel with custom-designed covers that protect the outlets from debris and dust. The cast iron sleeved engine provides durability, which means you never have to worry about oil shutdown.
Pros
- Requires low maintenance
- Better durability
- Lightweight
Cons
- Possible oil leaks
Summary
Offering dependable power with low maintenance and low noise, the Firman PO1001 is a great choice despite occasionally suffering from oil leaks. It also comes with essential accessories and a user-friendly control panel.
4. Firman PO3601 4550/3650 Watts Generator
Main Features And Benefits
- Heavy-duty flat-free wheel
- 4-in-1 data monitor to check frequency, hours, and voltage
- Consistent power output
- Minimal noise
The Firman PO3601 generator features 3650 running watts and 4550 starting watts. It gets power from the 208cc Firman engine. Additionally, it has a fat head block that helps cool the engine to increase efficiency. It has a fuel capacity of 5 gallons and can operate over 14 hours without difficulty. It’s compact and durable. Simply add gas and you’re set!
While it has a simple user interface, it only supports 120 volt AC outlets. Although it’s too bulky to carry around, you can easily attach wheels to improve portability.
This generator is perfectly suited for your RV as it can support your air conditioner needs. More importantly, it allows you to use other equipment in your RV that require AC provided you don’t run all your equipment simultaneously.
Pros
- Low noise levels
- Great tech support
- High wattage
- Long run time
Cons
- No wheel kit
- No 240v output
Summary
With a long run time and minimal noise, the Firman PO3601 is perfect for RV usage as long as you don’t need 240v output. However, keep in mind that it’s too bulky to carry around easily.
5. Firman WO1781 2100/1700 Watts Generator
Main Features And Benefits
- Extremely portable
- Long run time
- Comes with all the accessories you need, including funnel and plug wrench
- Minimal noise
The new and improved WO1781 recoil generator features 1700 running watts and 2100 starting watts with an 80cc Pro Series engine that runs cool. The Phoenix head block allows the engine to run efficiently as well. With a fuel capacity of 9 gallons, the generator can run over 12 hours. Furthermore, the whisper muffler keeps it quiet at 54 decibels.
The Firman WO1781 boasts a compact design as well as an ergonomic handle that makes it easy to carry with you anywhere, especially since it weighs less than 25 kg. It also comes with all the accessories you need, including a manual, funnel, oil, shipping bracket wrench, and spark wrench.
Pros
- Easy to operate
- Lightweight
- Compact Design
Cons
- Low Power
Summary
While the Firman WO1781 gets points for portability and easy operation, it’s also noisy and doesn’t live up to the advertised power output.
How To Choose A Firman Generator
Buying a portable generator to power your RV or home appliances is not something you should take lightly. The first consideration is reliability – you don’t want to find yourself in a sticky situation if your generator suddenly stops working. But there are many other factors to consider, including power output, price, run time, noise level, and durability.
Power
Engine power is usually measured by wattage. Generators with a higher wattage typically function better than those with lower wattage. Generator power is either measured in watts or horsepower.
To determine how much power you need, consider what you plan to use your generator for. If you need to power home equipment, then a generator with about 3,000 to 6500 watts should work sufficiently. Make a list of all your household devices that you want to power so that you can determine your power needs.
Also ensure that all your appliances can run on the intended voltage, which is between 120 and 240 volts. You may also want to consider if the generator can plug in a second generator to maximize your power output.
A conventional generator’s engine runs at maximum speed to deliver the desired wattage. On the other hand, inverter generators convert the direct current into alternating current. Therefore, inverter generators provide reliable and consistent power, which means you never have to rely on engine speed for enhanced performance. Additionally, inverter generators produce ‘’cleaner’’ power as compared to conventional generators.
For more information on conventional generators vs inverter generators see this post.
Why is it important to use a clean and reliable power source? Today, most electronic devices like computers, TVs, and mobile phones have small microprocessors that are easily damaged depending on the type of electricity used.
Therefore, if you power these devices using an “unclean” power source, they could easily malfunction or get damaged. If you have sensitive household appliances, it’s better to use an inverter generator.
Portability
Consider where you intend to use your generator – camping, RV, home, work, etc. – to determine how much portability you require. For example, if you want a generator for backup power at your home in case of a blackout, it may not matter if it’s portable. But if you’re going to take your generator camping, it should be lightweight and perhaps have wheels or a handle for easier carrying.
If you choose a portable generator, be sure to handle it with care to prevent damage. When moving the generator around, ensure it doesn’t come in contact with fluids, particularly at a work site. Take care of the power cables as well to prevent electrocution. Fix all any problems that may arise and remember to switch off the power supply if you aren’t using the generator.
Additionally, to increase the lifespan of your portable generator, stick to regular maintenance as directed in the manual. Filters and fluids should be changed regularly to ensure the generator works optimally. Also remember to grease the moving parts as required. Measure the power output regularly to ensure it is optimal.
Quiet Operation
A common complaint about generators is that they can be very noisy. Therefore, when shopping for a new generator, you should choose a model that is not too noisy but remains efficient. Compare different models by checking their noise levels.
When you buy a generator with a quiet engine, then you never have to worry about disturbing your pets, your sleep, your neighbors, or your children. Quiet generators are the best choice for RVs, as well as for camping and outdoor activities.
Fuel Capacity
Different models of Firman generators offer different fuel capacities. Before buying one, consider your needs and how you plan to use the generator. How often are you willing to refill your generator’s fuel tank?
Fortunately, the new and improved Firman generators can indicate when they have low fuel or oil. If you don’t observe these signs and your generator keeps shutting off, particularly when you use it to power all your household appliances, the extra electric load can damage the generator’s magnetic coils. If your generator is drained, it won’t be able to generate enough power to start even when you refuel the engine tank.
If that happens, your generator will need repairs, which can be costly and inconvenient if you lose power when you need it. To prevent draining your generator, always ensure it has the required fuel capacity to prevent damaging its engine.
Safety Measures
Although a generator can help power your household appliances or your RV, you shouldn’t run it indoors for a long period. Since the generator is powered by gas (like a car), operating it indoors can easily lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Therefore, always ensure you run the generator where there is enough open space for proper ventilation.
If you do decide to use the generator indoors, observe caution at all times. Common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include dizziness, headache, blurred vision, vomiting, weakness, and shortness of breath.
Keep the power cords away from the main pathways as they are tripping hazards. If they are accidentally snagged or pulled, they can easily damage the cords or outlets. Ensure the generator is close to the work station and protect the power cords with warning flags or cable covers if possible.
Water should never seep into any unprotected cords or outlets as this can easily cause short circuits that could damage the generator. Be careful when refueling and never attempt to refuel when the engine is still running. Ensure you have a fire extinguisher should there be an incident when you have to use it. Also remember to store the fuel in an airtight container and store it in a properly ventilated area.
FAQs
Are Firman Generators Any Good?
Firman generators provide reliable and consistent power that you can depend on. They use efficient engines that are appropriate for both personal use and industrial use. Most Firman generators are extremely quiet while running. Additionally, they are easy to use and affordable.
Who Makes Firman Generators?
Firman generators are produced by a company known as Sinomach, which has manufactured over 10 million generators over the last decade. They manufacturer generators to companies like Kohler, Rigid, and many others. The Firman generator brand is currently based in North America.
What Size Firman Generator Do I Need?
Firman generators are generally classified into three types: the hybrid series, the whisper series, and the performance series. The size of generator you need mainly depends on how you plan to use it. To power your household appliances, you can invest in a small portable generator. But for industrial use, you should buy a generator with more operating power.
Which Is Better – Champion Or Firman?
While Firman is still new in the power generation industry, they currently manufacture over 2,000 generators daily. The company is constantly innovating to stay on par with the competition. Thanks to thorough research on the ever-changing requirements of their customers, Firman is always manufacturing high-quality generators for both home and industrial use.
Conclusion
Firman generators are a worthy investment if you want to power your household appliances, job site, or RV. They always provide consistent and reliable energy, and they are easy to use as well. But if you want to get the right generator, you first need to evaluate your power needs.
Firman PO3608 4550/3650 Watts Generator
Editor's Choice
- CARB-compliant generator
- Consistent power output
- Minimal noise