Is the Firman Dual Fuel Generator Worth Buying?

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Off-Grid Living at Flat Tire Farm
   • 2.1 Solar Panels
   • 2.2 Portable Electric Generators
3. The Furman Dual Fuel Generator
   • 3.1 Portability and Ease of Use
   • 3.2 Power Output and Performance
   • 3.3 Fuel Capacity
   • 3.4 Dual Fuel Capability
   • 3.5 Cold Weather Startup
   • 3.6 Gas Cap Design Issue
   • 3.7 Noise Level
   • 3.8 Maintenance Challenges
   • 3.9 Hour Meter for Maintenance Tracking
4. Conclusion
5. FAQs

Off-Grid Living with the Furman Dual Fuel Generator

At Flat Tire Farm, an off-grid homestead in beautiful Willow, Alaska, we rely on alternative energy sources to power our daily activities. Our only source of electricity comes from solar panels on our house and portable electric generators. In this article, we will focus on our experience with the Furman dual fuel generator, which has been a reliable and essential tool for our off-grid lifestyle.

Off-Grid Living at Flat Tire Farm

Living off the grid means we are self-sufficient when it comes to our electricity needs. Our solar panels are an integral part of our energy system, harnessing the power of the sun to provide us with electricity. However, during periods of low sunlight or high energy demands, we rely on our portable electric generators to ensure a consistent power supply.

Solar Panels

Our solar panels are mounted on our house, collecting sunlight throughout the day and converting it into usable electricity. This renewable energy source is clean, sustainable, and helps reduce our carbon footprint. However, it is not always sufficient to meet our energy needs, especially during the winter months when daylight hours are shorter.

Portable Electric Generators

To complement our solar panels, we utilize portable electric generators. These generators provide backup power when the solar panels are unable to keep up with our energy demands. The Furman dual fuel generator has been a valuable addition to our off-grid setup.

The Furman Dual Fuel Generator

The Furman dual fuel generator has been a prominent part of our off-grid lifestyle for the past 10 months. After experiencing an unfortunate incident with our previous generator, the Generac, we sought a reliable and durable replacement. The Furman generator has successfully powered our homestead during extreme weather conditions, both in scorching summers and freezing winters.

Portability and Ease of Use

One of the first advantages of the Furman dual fuel generator is its portability. As an off-grid homestead, we value the versatility of a portable generator. The fold-out handle and wheels make it easy to move the generator wherever it is needed. Additionally, its manageable weight allows for convenient transportation.

Power Output and Performance

The Furman dual fuel generator shines when it comes to power output. With a rating of 4,000 watts, it surpasses the capabilities of smaller portable generators. We have used this generator to charge the batteries on our house while simultaneously running power-intensive tools and equipment, such as a miter saw, compressor, and table saw. Even with these demanding loads, the generator has performed flawlessly, providing a steady power supply without any hiccups.

Fuel Capacity

One drawback we have encountered with the Furman dual fuel generator is its limited fuel capacity. With a fuel tank that holds only 1.8 gallons of gas, we often find ourselves refueling more frequently than desired. This becomes especially evident when we need to charge the batteries on our off-grid solar system for our cabin. The 1.8-gallon capacity sometimes falls short, requiring us to refuel before our batteries reach their desired charge level.

Pros:

• Portability allows for easy transportation.
• Powerful output of 4,000 watts handles heavy loads effortlessly. Cons:
• Limited fuel capacity of 1.8 gallons may require frequent refueling for certain applications.

Dual Fuel Capability

One standout feature of the Furman dual fuel generator is its ability to run on both gasoline and propane. Initially, we didn't think this feature would be crucial, but it proved to be a significant asset, especially in our cold climate. Starting the generator in freezing temperatures can be challenging on gasoline, but switching to propane makes it much easier to start. We can warm up the machine on propane for a few minutes before transitioning to gasoline. While propane may be more expensive, the convenience and reliability it offers in extreme cold conditions outweigh the additional cost.

Cold Weather Startup

Running generators in extreme cold weather presents its own set of challenges. When the temperature drops to 20-25 degrees below zero Fahrenheit, starting any generator can be difficult. This is not a shortcoming specific to the Furman generator but a common issue with all generators. Cold temperatures make smooth startups challenging. However, the Furman generator consistently starts reliably after a brief warm-up period on propane, even in extremely cold temperatures.

Gas Cap Design Issue

Despite its overall performance, the Furman dual fuel generator does have a design flaw with its gas cap. The gas cap's threads extend all the way down to the top of the tank, making contact with the housing when screwed on. This design flaw becomes problematic in winter when snow or ice falls on the generator and melts due to its warm operation. The melted snow or ice then freezes around the gas cap, making it challenging to open or close.

The workaround we have found is to screw the gas cap all the way on and then back it off half a turn. This slight adjustment prevents the cap from coming into contact with any ice or snow on top of the gas tank. It has been a minor inconvenience, but with this simple solution, we have overcome the issue.

Noise Level

The Furman dual fuel generator impresses with its quiet operation. Despite its 4,000-watt capacity, it is quieter than our previous 2,800-watt generator. The noise reduction is a result of the generator's well-designed covers, some of which have insulation on the inside. This makes it an ideal choice for camping or RV use, where noise levels should be kept to a minimum.

Maintenance Challenges

While the insulation and covers contribute to noise reduction, they also make maintenance tasks more challenging. Opening up the generator for maintenance, such as cleaning or replacing filters, becomes more time-consuming due to the numerous covers that need to be removed. The air filter, oil filler cap, and oil drain plug are located behind different panels, requiring additional steps to access them. This aspect can be cumbersome and adds complexity to routine maintenance procedures.

Hour Meter for Maintenance Tracking

One feature of the Furman dual fuel generator that we find particularly useful is the built-in hour meter. This hour meter allows us to track the usage of the generator accurately. By keeping track of the generator's runtime, we can adhere to a regular maintenance schedule. Following proper maintenance procedures, such as changing the oil and keeping the air filter clean, extends the generator's lifespan and ensures optimal performance. This hour meter serves as a helpful reminder to stay on top of maintenance tasks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Furman dual fuel generator has proven to be a reliable and efficient power source for our off-grid lifestyle. Its portability, power output, and dual fuel capability make it a valuable asset in providing electricity to our homestead. Despite its limited fuel capacity and the minor design flaw with the gas cap, the generator has consistently performed well in extreme weather conditions. Its quiet operation, although slightly complicating maintenance tasks, adds to its appeal. Overall, we have been highly satisfied with the Furman dual fuel generator and would not hesitate to purchase it again.

FAQ

Q: What is the fuel consumption rate of the Furman dual fuel generator? A: The fuel consumption rate of the Furman dual fuel generator varies depending on the load and whether it runs on gasoline or propane. On average, it consumes approximately 0.45-0.6 gallons of fuel per hour at half load.

Q: Can the Furman dual fuel generator be used to power sensitive electronics? A: Yes, the Furman dual fuel generator produces clean power with less than 3% total harmonic distortion (THD), making it safe to use with sensitive electronics such as laptops, smartphones, and televisions.

Q: How long does the generator run on a full tank of fuel? A: With a fuel capacity of 1.8 gallons, the Furman dual fuel generator can run for approximately 5-6 hours on a full tank at a 50% load.

Q: Is it necessary to drain the gas from the generator after each use? A: It is recommended to drain the gas from the generator if it will not be used for an extended period. Storing the generator with an empty fuel tank helps prevent fuel degradation and ensures easy startup when needed.

Q: Can the Furman dual fuel generator be used indoors? A: No, the Furman dual fuel generator should not be used indoors. Generators emit toxic carbon monoxide gas, which can be fatal if inhaled. Always operate the generator in a well-ventilated outdoor area, away from open windows or doors.

Q: Can the Furman dual fuel generator power an entire house during a power outage? A: The power output of the Furman dual fuel generator is 4,000 watts, which is sufficient to run essential appliances and electronics in a typical home during a power outage. However, it may not be able to power the entire house simultaneously, especially if high-power devices like air conditioners or electric heaters are used.

Q: Is the Furman dual fuel generator covered by a warranty? A: Yes, the Furman dual fuel generator comes with a warranty provided by the manufacturer. The specific warranty terms may vary, so it's recommended to consult the product documentation or contact the manufacturer for detailed information.