Honda EU3000is Review

Ian Mutuli
Updated on
Ian Mutuli

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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In case of a power outage, generators are the only alternative option that can help power up your house. Depending on the wattage output of your generator, you can even light up your entire house without worrying about putting too much load on it. 

People often do not worry about purchasing a generator until bad weather conditions force them to, or until it is far too late. 

These circumstances force them to make irrational decisions without looking too much into the product they are buying. Since generators are expensive, making a hasty decision can cost you a lot in the long run.

This is the reason why we are here with an in-depth review of the Honda EU3000is, which is considered one of the most reliable generators on the market. This review will look into the features and functions of the generator as well as the pros and cons.

You may know Honda as a worldwide manufacturer of cars and motorbikes. However, the Japanese company has earned a large part of its popularity through manufacturing inverter generators. 

These generators are quite in demand as they offer the same reliability that Honda vehicles do. 

After its establishment in 1946, it took the company more than two decades to start producing its own line of inverter generators. 

Ever since then, it has taken over the world one country at a time and has quickly become famous in the market of generators.

What Makes Honda Generators So Special?

Honda generators are not just famous because they are manufactured by the world’s most popular company. There are a number of factors that make these generators so special. 

Honda generators are smooth in their functioning and compact in their size. However, these are not the things that make Honda generators so special.    

The engineers at Honda take special care of fuel efficiency when designing their generators. This is exactly what makes these powering devices so special. They power up your home while also helping you save up on fuel.

Honda EU3000is Review

This generator does not only help you save up on fuel, but is also eco-friendly and reliable. 

This model comes with a heavier price tag than most but is it worth it? Let’s take a look in this Honda EU3000is review.

Features and Functions Of Honda EU3000is

If you are looking into purchasing a 3,000 watt generator, then the Honda EU3000is might be the perfect choice for you.

In addition to its high power output, the generator has a lot more features to offer that will make powering up your home an easy task.

1. Versatile Engine

The Honda EU3000is generator has a surge power of 3,000 watts as well as a running power of 2,800 watts as well. 

The 2,800 watts of continuous supply enables you to easily power up even an air conditioner in your home as well as smaller appliances such as a fridge, lights and others.

Its engine is pretty solid and can support even some sensitive appliances.

2. Fuel Efficient

Powering your home overnight becomes easy with this generator. It is extremely fuel efficient and can offer a runtime of 20 hours on only 3.4 gallons of fuel. 

Thanks to the special eco-throttle fitted into the generator, it helps you save up on fuel and can even offer a runtime of 20 hours on a single tank without needing refueling. 

This is exactly what makes this the perfect option in case you need an overnight power source to light up your home. The generator does this by taking note of the energy requirements and adjusting the fuel consumption rate accordingly.

3.  Dual Start Option

Many generators come with a single-start option, which can make it tricky to start the generator.

Keeping this very problem in mind, the engineers at Honda have added the dual start option in the EU3000is generator.

Along with a recoil start, the generator also offers an electric start which works at a simple touch of a button. This means you will have no difficulty in getting started.

The recoil feature isn’t very difficult to use. The cord is pretty long and easy to pull. Still, it can be troublesome for some people. This is why the electric start feature is important.

In case you wish to get a remote-start installed in your generator, you have the option to do so. However, this will nullify the 3-year generator provided by Honda.

4. Extremely Silent

Most generators have a tendency to produce a lot of noise. However, this is not the case with the Honda EU3000is generator. 

It produces a low sound of 49-58 dB (A). To put this into perspective, this is less sound than we make while having a normal conversation. 

This is exactly what makes these generators the perfect companion to help power up anything from your RV and even a camping site. 

All of this is thanks to the powerful Honda GX200 engine that is by far the best engine on the market. The noise will not cause any distractions, which makes it perfect for all kinds of users including campers.

5. Efficient Inverter Technology

Powered by Honda’s special inverter technology, the EU3000is provides not only a clean supply of power, but one that is stable as well. 

The precision-focused inverter technology installed in the generator allows you to charge your computer without worrying about a sudden change in power output. 

It supplies ‘clean’ power that is free from inconsistencies and can protect your electrical appliances from damage. With this one, you will not have to worry about charging sensitive devices like tablets and mobile phones. 

This is of huge importance because disturbances can cause sensitive devices to sustain damage.

6. Easy Maintenance

Once you purchase the EU3000is generator, you can permanently say goodbye to fussing over when and how often your generator requires maintenance. It has the capability to hold up quite well without needing to be checked every week or so.

You only have to take care of routine oil changes. Moreover, the generator makes maintenance extremely easy and lets you run it dry of gasoline in case you need to store the generator away after use.

7. Additional Connection

If you feel the need to add more power to the initial 3,000 watts supplied by the generator, you can always connect another similar generator thanks to the optional parallel kit option.

This parallel kit is only compatible with another generator of the same model and not with any other model. However, when connected to another Honda EU3000is generator, you can get a total power output of 6000 watts 

This not only increases the available power but doubles the run-time as well.

8. Multiple Outlets

Honda has made sure to equip these generators with multipurpose outlets that serve a variety of purposes.

The EU3000is comes with a 30 amp locking plug for added protection when connecting an external power source, 125-volt outlets for normal household appliances as well as a 12-volt DC outlet.

The versatility of these outlets allows you to connect any external power cable with ease no matter what type of plug it may have.

We also liked how cleverly these outlets are placed. You will not have to worry about little space or tangled wires

9. Multiple Safety Features

All the generators manufactured by Honda are equipped with multiple safety measures that ensure accident-free working. 

In case of an overload, the generator will alert you (light system) and shut off automatically to prevent an explosion. 

Additionally, the generator has also been equipped with a low oil light warning. In case of a low oil level, this light will let you know that it is time to turn off the generator and replace the oil. 

In case you do not take note of this light, the generator will then automatically turn off to prevent harm to the engine caused by low oil levels. 

This is very important because running the generator in such conditions does not only harm the engine but other appliances as well.

10. Protective Frame

The EU3000is is protected by a sturdy steel frame that guarantees protection from external impact or weather elements that might damage the engine or the body of the generator. However, the opinion on the frame seems to be divided.

It adds to the weight, which can make things difficult for some users. But, this is not the only worry. The frame adds to the noise but it does have some perks as it protects the generator.

11. Portability Features

Despite its heavy-weight, the generator still comes with a solid steel handle on the front to move around. There are no wheels installed on the bottom of the generator but they can still be installed which is as simple as taking your generator to a trustworthy mechanic. 

Doing this will not have an effect on your generator and will still keep the 3-year warranty valid.

However, it isn’t the most portable option but we have seen users praise how amazing it works for camping trips.

Design and Body Of Honda EU3000is

The color of the generator is the signature red with black side panels. The popular ‘Honda’ logo comes printed on both the side and the font of the generator. 

The body of the generator is made from 100% steel without any plastic. Looking past the added weight, this steel frame works well against extreme weather conditions while also protecting the engine against impact.

The generator weighs around 144 pounds (200 pounds with fuel); however, the dimensions – 27 x 26 x 21 inches – are user friendly. It does not take a lot of space and can be kept in a corner without any trouble.

eu3000is

Warranty and Customer Service OF Honda EU3000is

The EU3000is generator comes with a 3-year warranty that covers both commercial and residential uses. This means that the warranty is not only valid for home usage, but for RVs as well.

However, please note that getting additional features installed or engineered into your may affect the validity of your warranty.

Always contact the customer service at Honda before making any decisions about adding extra features or parts to your generator.

Fortunately, the customer service is pretty good. You will not have to worry about getting repairs done on the machine. You can book a session online and pick a suitable service provider.

Honda EU3000is Review: Pros and Cons

The Honda EU3000is comes with a few pros and cons of its own that are worth pointing out.

PROS

  • Quiet functioning that is perfect for camping and RV’s
  • Powerful inverter engine for clean power
  • Fuel efficient
  • Low oil light indicator to warn against low oil levels
  • 20+ hours of runtime

CONS

  • Heavier than other generators
  • Not the most portable option out there

Overall, our rating of the Honda EU3000is generator is:

Noise level

Power and fuel efficiency

Portability

Performance

OVERALL

What is the Generator Best Suited For?

Keeping all the highlighted features in mind, the Honda EU3000is generator is best suited for:

1. Construction Sites

Construction is a booming industry and many sites are in remote locations where it can be tough to have a constant power supply. This is why the EU3000is said to be a suitable option for construction sites.

2. Backup Supply for Power Tools

Power tools require a stable and clean power supply to work at full efficiency. If your current power supply is unreliable, then connecting a Honda EU3000is generator can provide you with additional amps to power up your tools.

Additionally, this generator can also be a great power supply for electric signboards, floodlights and other equipment.

3. Outdoor Camping and Events

Organizing events can be made easier when you have an inverter generator by your side. The Honda EU3000is generator can serve as an additional power supply to power up sound systems and concert lights. 

Additionally, thanks to its soundless functioning, the generator is also perfect to take along on an outdoor camping trip.

4. National Emergencies

National emergencies like storms and earthquakes can take away power supplies for days. In moments such as those, it is important to have a generator stored away in case you need it.

The Honda EU3000is provides up to 2,800 watts of power that is optimum for working in emergencies and powering up your home without fail.

Additionally, once you are done using the generator, you can always run it dry of fuel before storing it away.

All in all, in this Honda EU3000is review, we can say that this generator is suitable for both residential and commercial purposes.

Who Should Purchase the Honda EU3000is Generator?

The features and functions of this inverter generator make it perfect for anyone who wants to have a generator that can do it all.

However, it does come with a price tag that may sound absurd to a lot of people. 

But, considering the fact that you get an authentic and powerful Honda GX200 engine for the price, it is most definitely worth it. Plus, it is quite durable and will be with you for an extended period of time.

Anyone who wants an inverter generator that has a reliable engine and does not mind should go for the Honda EU3000is generator.

Honda EU3000is Review: Frequently Asked Questions

This Honda EU3000is generator review cannot be complete without answering some of the most commonly asked questions about this beauty.

How heavy is the generator?

Although the generator is meant to be ‘portable’, it still weighs around 131 pounds - 150pounds or so after you put fuel in it. 

The added weight is due to the sturdy steel frame surrounding the engine of the generator. 

In case you wish to carry or transport the generator around, you will need another person to help you out.

Is the EU3000is generator good for use as a backup power source for my home?

The inverter generator provides a clean supply of 3,000 watts. This is perfect for not just lighting up your home, but also powering up heavier appliances such as an air conditioning unit.

Additionally, thanks to its fuel efficient working, it can also run all day and all night without needing a fuel refill.

How quiet is it?

The best feature of the Honda EU3000is generator is that it runs without producing a lot of noise. It produces a sound of 58dB, which is the same as two people having a conversation.

If the sound is what you are most worried about, then rest assured that the EU3000is generator is one of the quietest generators available on the market.

Does the generator have a remote start option?

Simple answer: no.

The generator comes with a button start option and a recoil start backup option. However, it does not have a remote start option installed.

Nonetheless, you can get one installed. However, remember that doing so will nullify the 3-year warranty that comes with the generator.

Can I parallel connect the EU3000is generator to another inverter generator?

Although the Honda EU3000is generator gives the option to parallel connect another generator for greater power output, it does so under one condition – it will only work with the same model.

Connecting another generator with a different power output will not work.

Since the generator is good for RV’s, is it safe to run an RV air conditioner that measures around 15,000 BTUs?

Yes, it is suitable to run an RV air conditioner; however, it isn’t ideal as the generator may have to work at a heavier load, which can result in a lot of noise. 

Also, keep an eye on the overload indicator on the generator if you are powering other appliances in addition to the air conditioner.

How long will the generator actually run for?

The engine automatically takes note of power output and controls fuel consumption accordingly, this special feature allows the generator to run for a total time of around 8 hours on a single tank.

You can reduce the load to make it work for longer hours.

Honda EU3000is Review: Conclusion

As the pioneer of the most powerful engines, Honda has secured its spot yet again as the manufacturer of the world's most reliable inverter generator. 

With great efficiency, features and modern looks, the Honda EU3000is makes for an excellent purchase. It does have some cons as it’s quite heavy but the pros are quite worth the money and effort.

It is extremely efficient and can run for long hours without fail. Get your hands on this beauty if you are looking for an inverter generator that will be with you for an extended period of time. With this generator, you can put all your worries to rest as it’s safe and easy to use and will not cause you any trouble.

Ian Mutuli

About the author

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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