Electrical generators provide electricity from a standalone machine when power from the local grid isn’t available, for example, when you're camping and need to power up your electrical appliances.
While your average generator runs full throttle for the whole duration it’s switched on, inverter generators are far more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly, and are now making a regular appearance on the market for this very reason.
Inverter generators work by adjusting the engine up or down accordingly, rather than constantly running on full power, and the result of this is you use as much energy as you need, rather than more than you need, so you're not having to fill the gas tank up quite as frequently.
Generally speaking, an inverter generator will save you money, produce lower emissions, and are often far quieter than regular generators.
The Yamaha EF2000iSV2 2000 Watt Inverter Generator is one of the leading models on the market, and today we’ll be reviewing this inverter generator to see if it stands up to its high reputation as a more energy-efficient alternative and an enhanced version of the earlier Yamaha EF2000iS.
Overview
The Yamaha EF2000iSV2 is one of the most highly-rated portable inverter generators on the market at the moment, and, unlike the earlier version of this generator, the EF2000iS, this model features a completely new controller with advanced programming, allowing it to power a much wider range of applications.
It also features Yamaha's Smart Throttle technology which allows greater fuel efficiency and noise reduction. Yamaha claims that this is their quietest generator yet thanks to the sophisticated muffler design and rubber feet which reduce vibration and limit noise pollution.
On the surface, this generator has a modern-retro blue and black design and is compact and lightweight for easy transporting and storage.
Let’s have a look at some of the defining features of this smart inverter generator…
Power Output
The EF2000iSV2 uses a 79 cc 4-stroke OHV engine with a cast-iron cylinder for high-quality engine operation and durability, as you’d expect from Yamaha. These also enhance efficiency and engine life, providing more effective heat dissipation.
Despite its size, this generator certainly packs a punch. The EF2000isv2 features an innovative new controller with advanced programming, so it can operate between 1600w and 2000w rather than running on full tilt at all times.
While it’s not the most powerful generator on the market, the inverter system, along with Yamaha’s Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) control, ensures that the generator produces a cleaner and purer sine wave that will effortlessly run a range of electronics, from computers to air conditioning units.
If you need to power something larger, the EF2000iSV2 has also got you covered for your extra power needs too, as a convenient parallel function allows you to connect two generators to generate up to 30 amps.
Run Time
The Smart Throttle system of this generator allows greater fuel efficiency, so the engine speed adjusts to match the load and as a result, the generator can run for longer, too.
It will provide power for hours at a time, running up to 10.5 hours at ½ rated load on a tank of gas. The EF2000iSV2 comes with a small, 4.4 liter fuel tank that takes regular unleaded. Despite its size, the runtime is impressive and demonstrates just how energy efficient this generator really is.
Efficiency
The whole point of an inverter generator is to save you energy and money, and the Yamaha does not disappoint in this area. It’s the Smart Throttle™ that really allows the EF2000iSV2 to stand out.
This mechanism allows the generator to vary its engine speed based on load, which saves you fuel when you don’t need full-throttle power.
This means you save money in the long run as you refill the tank less often, plus it increases durability, as it reduces wear on the engine. Yamaha generators have the longest emission engine durability ratings issued by the Environmental Protection Agency and the California Air Resources Board.
Noise Reduction
Not only does the Yamaha Smart Throttle™ use less energy, but it reduces noise pollution too. Yahama has developed their muffler technology with this generator, and it runs whisper-quiet so you may forget it’s even running.
At 51.5 DBA to 61 DBA (¼ rated to rated load), you can even comfortably talk over it, unlike other noisy, distracting generators.
This makes it great for use at outdoor parties or in an RV. The Rubber feet on the base of this generator absorb vibration and allow the machine to operate smoothly while also reducing noise.
Portability
Weighing in at just 44lbs, the Yamaha EF2000iSV2 is highly portable and lightweight, it’s compact enough for easy storing and transporting, and even has a comfortable grip handle so you can conveniently carry it.
Ease of Use
Starting up this generator requires a simple pull operation, and it usually starts up on the first pull. The face of the generator features easy-to-access controls and an oil warning light. The fuel gauge enables quick fuel level inspection without having to turn off the unit and remove the fuel cap.
Safety
There are several features in place that ensure the safe running of the generator. The Fuel Petcock prevents stale gas problems and gummed‐up carburetors, while the Electrical Overload Breaker Prevents generator damage, in case of tank overload.
The Oil Watch Warning System triggers a warning light when oil is low, which prevents engine damage and will save you money on those costly repairs.
Cost
The Yamaha EF2000iSV2 offers a mid-price point, and, while there are more affordable options on the market, you know with Yamaha that you’re guaranteed quality and durability.
The highly durable 79 cc 4-stroke OHV engine with a cast-iron cylinder enhances the efficiency and heat dissipation of this generator, while the updated Smart Throttle technology provides energy efficiency meaning you’ll save money on fuel in the long-run.
What We Like:
- The energy efficiency allows saves you money and fuel in the long run
- The “cleanness” of the energy - fewer emissions emitted
- 79 cc 4-stroke OHV engine and the cast-iron cylinder is highly durable
- Advanced controlling allows the engine to adapt between 1600w and 2000w
- Long run time despite size - runs for up to 10.5 hours at ½ rated load on a tank of gas
- Runs quietly thanks to the sophisticated muffler and rubber feet for reduced vibration and noise pollution
- Parallel generator operation ‐ The EF2000iSv2 can be connected in parallel with the earlier model Yamaha EF2000iS for increased power output
- Quick, easy start-up and easy-to-reach buttons
- Portable and lightweight - also has a carry handle
- Oil warning system for safety and durability
- 8A 12V outlet for charging batteries (cables included)
What We Dislike:
- Only one 15amp outlet
- Struggles to run larger appliances
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between this model and the older Yamaha EF2000is?
The main difference between the EF2000is and the EF2000isV2 is the revised design, which features a new controller board allowing you to run the generator at the maximum AC Output for a longer period of time before the engine overloads.
The older version will only run for 20 seconds at maximum AC because the circuit trips, whereas the newer version will run for up to 13 minutes before overloading. Overall, this allows you to run more appliances simultaneously, so it’s basically a more powerful generator and is more energy-efficient.
Can I parallel the new EF2000isV2 model with an older EF2000iS?
Yes, you can connect the two different models, however when operating in parallel, the redesigned V2 controller board will operate according to the older model. Maximum AC output will not operate for up to 13 minutes but up to 20 seconds, instead.
Final Verdict
The Yamaha EF2000isV2 is an impressive piece of kit. It’s compact and lightweight, yet packs in 2000 watts of energy to power a range of small-medium sized appliances.
The crowning glory of this generator is its energy efficiency and Smart Throttle technology which allows the generator to alter its output between 1600W and 2000W, meaning you save time and money as you’re refilling the fuel tank less often, which also brings us to the point that despite the small 4.4-liter tank, this generator can run for up to 10.5 hours.
We also loved how quietly it runs in comparison to other generators on the market. The sophisticated muffler dramatically reduces noise pollution, while the rubber feet also ensure the generator runs smoothly and limits vibration. This is definitely one of the quietest inverter generators out there.
It doesn’t have the greatest power output, but it’s perfect for powering small-medium appliances, plus it can be paralleled with the earlier EF2000iS generator to increase power output.
Sure, this isn’t the cheapest inverter generator out there, but it’s also not the most expensive, either.
With Yamaha, you’re guaranteed quality materials and a durable engine that’s built to last, so in our opinion, you’re getting plenty of bang for your buck, particularly if you’re looking for a generator that is portable and energy-efficient, with the running time of a larger generator.
