Honda EU2000i v 2000 Companion

RobMcClain

RobMcClain

Member
We plan to buy a portable Honda EU2000 generator, but which one is best for boat use? The 2000i that has two 120v outlets and one DC 12v, or the 2000i Companion model that has one 120v outlet and one 30 amp outlet that can be used with a 30 amp boat power cord. I see pros and cons to both models and would appreciate some thoughts on this aspect. I really don't plan on running two generators together so that particular capability of the Companion model is not important to me, but it would seem functional to be able to connect the 30 amp shore power cord directly to the Companion model. Which generator would be most functional for use on a C-Dory?

Rob
 
You want the 2000i, Thoe companion will not provide 30 amps without the 2000i the companion should only be used as a companion to the 2000i if you are going to need more than 14 amps, the 2000i wll take care of most if not all of your needs ours runs the coffee pot and battery charger just fine and will run the hot water heater if you manage your load.
 
If you aren't going to hook two of them together, it's kind of a moot point - one generator can't put out 30 amps (they run about 18 as I recall, but I'm sure someone here will get specific). It's easy enough to buy or make a 30 to 15 amp adapter to go from your boat connection and then use a short, heavy extension cord.

We have the original version 2000i generator, and I don't use our yellow 30 amp power cord with it; we use an adapter with the extension cord... less weight and bulk in the cockpit.

If one is better priced than the other, go that route. Either will work. We have used our generator to run the house side of the boat and an automotive battery charger at the same time, so the two 120v outlets are handy. And, especially handy when running a bunch of lights for the Christmas boat parade.

It's a great small generator - you can't go wrong.

Best wishes,
Jim B.
 
Hm, the 2000 Companion must be a new model, at least I haven't heard of it before. Apparently it's designed specifically for linking with another 2000i generator. Since it has a 30A 125V Locking NEMA Plug Number: L5-30P, it can be used for a boat. You do give up the 12 DC capability, which I've never used.

Anyway, here's my thoughts. First, if the output is equal, go for the cheapest. Next, ask yourself where you'd use that generator, just on the boat or elsewhere, such as a power outage. If you can see yourself using it elsewhere, get the one with 2 ea standard 120 outlets. You can (and I do) use an adapter between the Honda when it's on the boat and the boat shore power plug. Remember, the Honda 2000 is really a 1500, which means that 13 amps is max. And in all honesty how are you going to use 30 amps on a 23 ft boat?

Those are my thoughts, your choice however.

Boris
 
We have used the eu 2000i for the last couple years & it works great. As Jim said the biggest difference is the companion already has a 30 amp plug. An adapter & heavy gauge cord works just as well not to mention cost less. Ours will run the 9000 btu a/c with no problem or microwave & water heater( just not at the same time). We usually turn the eco throttle off when the a/c is first turned on , then switch back to eco after seawater pump & compressor starts. With the a/c turned down low we don't have to worry about starting & stopping amperage draw. I just ran down to Fernandina Beach Fl & back from North Myrtle Beach Sc & the little generator was worth it's weight in gold. I guess I'm spoiled having this great little boat with an enclosed helm
:wink
 
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