I'd have to double check what Yamaha generator I have - I am pretty sure its a 2.8KVA ( I think they are pretty conservative with the kva rating).
It is much larger and heavier and cost more than the EU20i which is really quite compact. EU20i will run electric blankets no problem as they don't draw much but electrical heaters do (often 2400 watts). A little gas heater is more efficient than electrical but can be a little fumy. I use a little one under my table in my remote observatory and it is great.
Noise is unobtrusive and it is slightly noisier than the 20i but not much. Both have a cheerful sounding engine and I don't find either impinging.
I get about 20-22+ hours on a full tank. I change the oil regularly like after every 4 days of use.
The Yamaha I have is electric start with pull start as a backup.
Its a good piece of gear and I highly recommend it.
Greg.
Quote:
Originally Posted by naskies
Thanks Greg, your post was very helpful. I found this generator sizing chart page on Yamaha's website as I was checking out the EF2800i's specs:
http://www.yamaha-motor.com/outdoor/...or/sizing.aspx
According to this chart, a typical 10,000 BTU (= 3 kW) air conditioner needs 2.2 kW of power to start... which is beyond the Honda EU20i's 2 kW max supply. Probably explains the touchy starts.
Ideally, I'd like to be able to run appliances like an AC / heater / toaster / fridge / main laptop (in addition to astro needs) so that I can spend more time out at dark sites.
It sounds like EF2800i would be the right starting point for me. It's in a similar price range, size, and weight as the EU20i too. Do you find it much noisier than the Honda EU20i (60 vs 54 dB)? Do you get anywhere near the 17 hr rated running time on a full tank with low loads? |