This blog post reviews the new EcoFlow Dual Fuel Portable Generator based on some tests of the generator. The purpose of the blog is to provide an overview of the new dual fuel generator, show how it works with both gasoline and propane, and compare its performance and features to the previous EcoFlow generator model. Some key aspects covered in the blog include unboxing the unit, comparing it to the older model, testing noise levels and power output with both fuel types, breaking in the engine, and assessing potential benefits and drawbacks of the dual fuel design. Through a detailed hands-on review, the blog aims to inform potential customers about what to expect with EcoFlow’s latest portable generator option. This blog summarizes the blog’s key findings in a concise and accessible format.
Unboxing the New Dual Fuel Generator
Once opening the box, we immediately find the manual which provides guidance on setup, operation, maintenance and troubleshooting for the generator. Although most customers may not thoroughly read the entire manual, it’s useful to have on hand as a reference.
Also included is a propane hose line with an inline regulator and quick connect fitting. This allows easy hookup from the generator to a propane tank. A data cable is in the box as well which enables connecting the generator to Ecoflow’s Delta Pro, Delta 2 and other products.
For getting started, a convenient tool kit comes included. With basic tools, you’ll have what’s needed for assembly and routine generator maintenance. Rounding out the unboxing, we uncover a funnel which makes pouring oil into the engine during an oil change simpler and cleaner.
With the accessories unpacked, we can get to the main event – the generator itself! Once removing the protective foam and bag, the shiny new dual fuel generator is revealed.
Comparing New vs Old Model
The new model looks very similar to the previous EcoFlow dual fuel generator. The faceplates are pretty much identical, along with the ID tags for the carbon monoxide, oil indicators, and more.
However, there are a few key differences:
- The new model has a reset button on the 20 amp outlet, so you don’t have to shut off the generator completely to reset it.
- There is now a data cord included to connect devices like the Delta Pro and Delta 2.
- The biggest upgrade is the addition of a quick connect fitting for propane. This allows for fast and easy connections directly to the generator, without any tools required. Just slide back the collar and press on the propane line to connect. To disconnect, simply slide back the collar again. This is a really handy improvement over previous models.
Overall, the quick propane connect is a standout new feature. The other changes like the reset button and data cord are minor but still nice upgrades. Visually, the new generator looks almost identical to the prior model.
Removing Side Panels to Inspect Engine and Carburetor
After taking the generator out of the box, I removed the side panels to take a closer look at the engine, carburetor, and other internal components.
On the older EcoFlow model, you can see the large blue lithium-ion battery, the carburetor with two stepper motors on top, and the 80cc Yamaha clone engine from Rato Engineering. These engines have been used in generators for years.
The new dual fuel generator has the same lithium-ion battery and air box and intake. The engine is also an 80cc unit from Rato Engineering – essentially a Yamaha clone as before.
Some key differences are noticeable right away. The new generator has a couple stepper motors like the older model, but also a large black propane line and load regulator on the back to control the propane flow to the carburetor.
EcoFlow also added a fuel shutoff solenoid that controls whether gas or propane flows based on the fuel selector switch position. The stepper motors and solenoid are simple but effective solutions to switch between the dual fuel options.
Overall, the engine and carburetor contain some expected updates for dual fuel capability, but retain the same basic 80cc Yamaha clone powerplant. After inspecting the insides, I moved on to adding oil and fuel to get the new generator ready for its first startup.
Adding Oil and Fuel
Before starting the generator for the first time, it’s important to add the proper oil and fuel. The manual specifies using a 10W-40 oil and filling it to the halfway point on the dipstick. Conventional, synthetic, or semi-synthetic oil can be used based on personal preference. When filling the oil, go slowly and allow time for it to drain into the crankcase to ensure an accurate reading on the dipstick.
After adding oil, the next step is filling the 1.6 gallon fuel tank with 87 octane gasoline. There’s no benefit to using a higher octane fuel. To help keep the fuel system clean and prevent problems from stale gasoline, use a fuel stabilizer additive like Sta-Bil or Lucas Fuel Treatment. Add the fuel treatment to the tank before filling with gas to allow proper mixing.
Properly prepping the generator with the right oil and fuel is essential for protecting the engine and ensuring reliable performance. So take a few extra minutes to carefully follow the directions when adding oil and gas. Taking this one-time step before ever starting the engine will pay off every time you go to use your generator.
Starting the Generator Properly
Follow these steps to start the generator correctly:
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Turn on the battery selector switch to activate the unit. This powers up the control panel and other electronics.
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Gently pull the starter cord to begin circulating oil in the engine. Pull the cord slowly 2-3 times before starting to prep the engine. This also helps draw fuel into the carburetor for easier starting.
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Make sure the fuel valve is turned to the “on” position. For gasoline, turn the valve clockwise. For propane, make sure the quick connect is firmly attached and the fuel selector is switched to propane mode.
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Set the eco mode switch to “on” or “off” depending on if you want the unit in economical idle mode or max power mode. Eco mode is gentler on the engine but reduces available wattage.
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Pull the starter cord briskly to crank the engine. Pull straight out without letting the cord snap back in. The unit should start within 2-3 hard pulls if prepped properly.
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Let the engine run for a minute to stabilize before connecting devices and drawing load. Avoid rapid acceleration by starting largest loads first then smaller ones.
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Monitor the displays to ensure voltage and frequency remain within operating specs as you increase load. Adjust eco mode as needed.
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Run the generator at least 10 minutes per month to keep the engine and fuel system conditioned when not in regular use.
Following this start procedure will help ensure successful ignition and proper break-in of the new generator. Let the unit properly warm up before running it under heavy loads.
Sound Comparison Between New and Old Models
To get an idea of how the sound levels compare between the new dual fuel generator and the previous EcoFlow model, I did a quick sound test.
I set up the generators in the same spot, 23 feet away from where I took the decibel readings. There was a bit of wind, but the readings were fairly consistent between both generators.
The older EcoFlow model measured around 58 decibels. When I tested the brand new dual fuel generator, it also measured right around 58 decibels.
So in my basic sound test, the noise levels were very similar between the old and new models. The dual fuel generator may have been slightly quieter to my ear, but the decibel readings were almost identical.
While not a big difference in sound, the new dual fuel generator does seem comparable or perhaps slightly quieter in terms of noise output. But overall, the sound profile is similar to the previous EcoFlow generators.
Propane Performance Test
Now we’re going to do a propane test to see if we actually get the same performance when running on propane as we do on gasoline.
One really convenient thing about this generator is the propane hookup – it’s designed to be done completely one-handed. Just pop the top off the quick connect fitting on the generator, slide on the propane line, and click it into place. Give the connector a quick tug to make sure it’s secure.
With the propane line connected, go ahead and open the valve on the propane tank. Next, turn on the fuel selector switch on the front of the generator to activate the propane system.
When powered by propane, you’ll notice the fuel gauge on the front display shows “99” – this is because there’s no direct way for the generator to know how much propane is left in the tank. You can add an auxiliary propane fuel gauge if you want a reading of your propane level.
With everything hooked up, pull the starter cord to fire up the generator. You may need to let it prime the propane system for a few seconds before it starts. Once running, you can smell the propane and hear the engine switch over from gasoline operation.
Now we can check the power output on the display to see if it’s reaching the advertised 1,600 watts on propane. The EcoFlow Delta Pro shows we’re getting right around 1,600 watts, so the performance matches expectations when running in dual fuel mode.
Changing Oil
One of the most important maintenance tasks with a new generator is changing the oil after the first hour of operation. During the initial break-in period, small metal shavings and debris can accumulate in the oil as the internal parts wear and polish against each other. These contaminants can quickly degrade the oil’s lubricating properties.
Replacing the oil after the first hour helps remove these harmful particulates. It also gives you a chance to inspect the oil for any signs of potential problems. The oil may take on a grayish tint, which indicates the presence of metal debris. You may even see small metal flakes in the drained oil. These are normal results of the break-in process.
I highly recommend changing your generator’s oil after about an hour of first using it. Immediately changing it is even better if you have the supplies on hand. Just be sure to use the manufacturer’s recommended oil type and viscosity. This initial oil change helps ensure your generator has a long and reliable lifespan. While the generator may seem to run fine at first, failing to change the break-in oil can lead to accelerated wear, component failure, and costly repairs down the road.
Hooking up to Delta Pro
To test the real-world wattage output when running on propane, I connected the new dual fuel generator to an EcoFlow Delta Pro portable power station. This allows us to accurately measure the continuous and peak power output.
I turned on the fuel selector switch to propane mode, which makes the fuel gauge show “99” since it can’t detect the propane level. After letting the generator prime and start up on propane, I plugged in the Delta Pro using the handy tool-less connector cable.
On the Delta Pro display, I set the generator to maximum 1800 watt AC output. With everything hooked up, I fired up the generator and watched the output reading on the Delta Pro. The wattage steadily climbed until hitting right around 1600 watts and staying solid at that level.
This confirms that when running on propane, the new dual fuel generator lives up to its advertised rating of 1600 watts continuous power. The engine was able to put out the expected wattage without any issue when using propane fuel. This gives me confidence in the generator’s dual fuel capabilities and real-world performance.
Overall, the hookup process was simple, and testing showed that the generator can deliver its rated wattage on both gasoline and now also propane. This makes it a versatile power solution whether using gas from the pump or propane tanks.
Gas Performance Test
Next, we wanted to test the power output when running on gasoline. The EcoFlow Delta Pro was set to 1800 watts or full DC output. After turning on the generator and allowing it to prime, we watched the power output climb. Despite the EcoFlow display showing 0-100% instantly when starting, the generator took a moment to reach full power.
The original EF Delta generator was rated for 1800 watts but typically achieved around 1650 watts during gasoline operation. We were curious if the dual fuel model would achieve higher output. The power output topped out around 1650 watts in our test, right in line with the previous single fuel model.
It seems the stated 1800 watt rating may be the peak or surge wattage, while the continuous output is limited to 1650 watts during gasoline operation. The EcoFlow Delta Pro display is capped at displaying 1650 watts, so we couldn’t verify if momentary surges reach the full 1800 watt spec.
While the maximum continuous power was identical to the prior model, the dual fuel capability provides the flexibility to easily switch between gasoline and propane fuel sources. This enables extended runtime using large propane tanks compared to the gasoline only model.
High RPM Concerns
One concern with the EcoFlow dual fuel generator is that it runs at a high RPM compared to similar generators. The engine turns at 5000 RPM, which is at the upper limit of the recommended range for small engines like this. Running an engine at high RPMs for extended periods can cause additional wear and tear over time.
The main downside is that the higher RPMs put more stress on engine components like bearings, valves, and rings. This can potentially lead to premature part failures if the engine isn’t maintained properly. The oil also needs changed more frequently when running at high RPMs.
Another issue is that running at 5000 RPM causes the engine to be louder compared to a more reasonable 3600-4500 RPM range that most generators target. The EcoFlow is already a bit loud to begin with, so increasing the RPMs makes it even more noisy.
While the long-term durability is still unproven, the high RPM speed is concerning for those looking to get many hundreds or thousands of hours out of their generator over its lifetime. Only time will tell if the EcoFlow holds up or has accelerated wear issues down the road. For now, it’s something potential buyers should be aware of when comparing different dual fuel generator options.
Benefits of Dual Fuel Capabilities
Having a dual fuel generator provides some key advantages over a traditional gasoline-only generator. Here are some of the top benefits:
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Flexibility – With the ability to run on either gasoline or propane, you have flexibility in fuel options. If gas stations are closed or gas is in short supply, you can use propane instead. Many people keep a propane tank on hand for grilling, so propane may be more readily available.
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Longer shelf life – Gasoline has a short shelf life and can go bad within a few months. Propane does not expire or deteriorate over time, so you can store propane tanks long term for emergency preparedness.
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Lower emissions – Propane is considered a clean burning fuel and produces fewer emissions than gasoline. This makes it better for the environment.
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Quieter operation – Propane generators tend to run quieter than gasoline models. This is nice if you need to run the generator close to your home.
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Easy hookup – The EcoFlow dual fuel generator has an easy to use quick connect propane hookup. You simply slide on the collar and click it into place for a secure connection.
Having the flexibility of both gas and propane in one generator provides significant advantages. You get optimal generator preparedness and can use whichever fuel works best for your situation.
Propane vs Gasoline
When comparing propane and gasoline performance in the EcoFlow dual fuel generator there are some key differences.
Propane Pros:
- Propane performed right at the rated output, providing 1,600 watts continuously.
- Quick connect propane hookup is convenient and easy to use.
- Propane fuel levels don’t display on the control panel, but propane tank gauges can provide this info.
- Propane is a clean burning and stable fuel that can be stored long term.
Propane Cons:
- Propane tanks take up space and have to be transported to the generator.
- External propane tank gauges have to be purchased separately.
Gasoline Pros:
- Gasoline is easy to transport and pour into the generator without additional equipment.
- The control panel displays current gasoline fuel level.
Gasoline Cons:
- Gasoline reached about 1,650 watts in testing, just under the 1,800 watt rating.
- Gasoline has a shorter shelf life than propane and can go bad when stored over time.
Both gasoline and propane performed well in testing. For portable or emergency use, propane’s stable storage may make it a better fuel choice long term. But gasoline offers simpler operation and built-in fuel gauges. Overall the dual fuel capability provides added flexibility to use whichever fuel is most convenient or available.
Conclusion
In summary, the new EcoFlow dual fuel generator offers some nice upgrades over the previous model while still using the same proven 80cc engine. The addition of quick connect propane is a big plus for convenience and makes switching between gas and propane seamless.
Performance on both gasoline and propane matched expectations, with the generator providing 1600 watts on propane and 1650 watts on gasoline. The sound levels are comparable between the old and new models at about 58 dB measured from 23 feet away.
One downside noticed during testing was the engine hitting high RPMs and occasionally triggering the rev limiter. For longevity it would be better if the engine stayed under 5000 RPM.
Overall, the dual fuel capability provides more flexibility by giving you the option of propane or gasoline. Propane has benefits like long shelf life, operation in cold weather, and no fuel stabilizer required. It may also be more economical depending on current gas prices.
For most users, the EcoFlow dual fuel portable generator will provide reliable backup power with the added bonus of easy propane hookup when needed. I would recommend it for anyone looking for a dual fuel inverter generator in this wattage range.