Ecoflow Dual Fuel Smart Generator: Charge DELTA Max, DELTA Pro, and Power Kits with Propane or Gas

[@Jasonoid]

I'm surprised no other company has come out with a "smart generator" like this before. EcoFlow really has a sweet product here! Great video Todd!

[@todd.parker]

Thanks Jason! I know, seems like such a perfect fit. I think the customer support logistics of gas engine is tricky. Goal Zero announced a generator years ago and scrubbed it because of logistics.

[@Jasonoid]

@@todd.parker yeah, they must have a good amount of trust in their system to have a 2 yr warranty.

[@guillermomaguire5394]

@@Jasonoid This is a brain dead necessity for any aspect of solar generator systems. For emergency, for off grid, etc. It is very obvious to me at least that the solar generator market is a "prepper" solution to alot of things. No more need to outfit RVs with all the electronics. If you have to bug out, you can throw the stuff in the back of the car, etc. As for warranty etc, certainly they could team up with, say Honda, to make the smart generators for them. I like Bluetti too, but without a smart generator or the brains to run a 3rd party, a non starter.

[@Miki-mw2by]

The Smart Generator does give me confidence that even if I run out of gas, I can still use propane to keep it running.

[@user-jt5vm3mi1w]

nice fake account from ecoflow

[@lacy8658]

Good to see that Ecoflow does their research well. I think the Smart Generator is the first one to use both propane or gasoline.

[@xxfire07]

The one?? The first what yo use both propane or gas??? First generator??? There are a ton of generators that are dual fuel.

[@davidcox8961]

Actually there are many dual fuel gennys.

[@tgee3716]

I just ordered my smart dual fuel generator!! I have Ecoflow Delta Max 2000, Delta Max 1600, 2 back up batteries and solar panels, 640 for my 2000 and 220 for 1600 unit. I get loads of sun in sw desert of scottsdale and solar works great.. Still wanted an optional recharge, excited to set up!

[@todd.parker]

Awesome

[@terrygalvin9653]

As others have said, this was an excellent review. I’d like to add that I found the info on adding oil really helpful. The nearly horizontal oil fill tube made it difficult for me to know when I had the right amount in. The documentation is in liters and gallons (0.1), which is inconvenient in a country that buys oil in quarts (0.4 quarts is the right amount). Seeing the oil touch the threads of the cap/dip stick is the best way I’ve heard.

[@todd.parker]

I struggled a bit with oil, so glad it was helpful!

[@lockdown123456789]

Just a heads up you need an adapter to use this product to charge the delta pro model.

[@thewatchertube]

What is the 520 error it has on the bottom of the screen?! Couldn’t find any information. Please help. Thank you 🙏

[@byrondouglas8695]

Great, informative review, you answered all my questions. I watched three other vids on this, but you covered this perfectly, informative, to the point; just great content!

[@byrondouglas8695]

I wonder if you could splice the Data/Power cable and insert a small extension, to one make it little longer, but more importantly allow it to be easily " fished" through a small hole to the inside/basement. Maybe you lose a bit of efficiency, but so what

[@todd.parker]

Glad it was helpful!

[@hakanbuyukpatpat]

Thanks for the video. I have a question. Can we connect the dc output of this generator to another device? For example, to the pv input of an inverter. Is there voltage on the + and - ends of the generator without connecting a cable when it is running? Or does it need to communicate with a device?

[@cyberprepper]

Great review. I would need a long cable from the generator to reach my Delta Pros in my basement, if they made one I would get two of these.

[@xxfire07]

I agree with the fact that the 16 foot cable is too short. For home backup I wouldn’t buy this. It’s over priced. There are plenty of more powerful dual fuel inverter generator that cost less on the Market today.

[@xxfire07]

I agree with the fact that the 16 foot cable is too short. For home backup I wouldn’t buy this. It’s over priced. There are plenty of more powerful dual fuel inverter generator that cost less on the Market today.

[@steohenblake3432]

Great video - thank you - Question please - I want to have a Delta pro or Max connected to commercial power to serve a couple of 120v appliances in a mountain house that will be vacant most of the time. In the event of a power outage, the delta pro kicks on - however if the power outage is long in duration and the batteries eventually drain, will the smart generator automatically crank and recharge the batteries. So, in other words, can the delta pro or max be connected to commercial power and the generator at the same time.... and act like an automatic transfer switch? thanks

[@todd.parker]

Yes, that should all work. You'd connect your appliances to the Delta and keep it plugged in so it's in UPS mode. If you also connect the smart generator via the expansion port it will automatically kick on when the battery hits a certain % you specify. When the generator runs out of fuel, then you're out of luck

[@kevtop351]

What good is it if it can't be used when needed like during a prolonged rain storm?

[@todd.parker]

That’s what it’s for.

[@jessenovotny4183]

Looking forward to hooking this into my RV. I plan to install an automatic transfer switch behind the panel and run a generator 30 amp outlet in the storage bay where the Delta Pro will live and plug into. From there I'll add a cable hatch that runs under the storage bay so I can put the smart generator outside but run the cable to the Delta Pro in the storage bay with the doors closed.

[@todd.parker]

Cool setup

[@johnmcmahon2480]

Can you daisy chain these generators like the honda to get more power to run an AC unit a RV?

[@todd.parker]

Nope they don’t have that feature

[@daddylogan]

You do a great job with your videos...very well spoken and great explanations. I just bought the Delta 2 and a backup battery and to finalize my peace of mind it would be smart to have an outside duel fuel generator to recharge the Delta 2 when there is no power or sunlight during a lengthy power outage. Question on the Delta 2 warranty? I hear they are a 5 year warrany but when mine arrived (bought off Amazon and the package deal of thre Delta 2 and the extra battery) when I opened up the warranty card is said only 24 months upon registration? I think I might be giving them a call tomorrow...plus there seems no way to register the extra battery? Do you have any knowledge of this?

[@todd.parker]

The smart generator is great and it’s great to have an alternative to solar on dark days. I like propane so the dual fuel is my choice. Warranty should be 5 years, might as well reach out to confirm

[@RTFMusic1]

Can you use charge a Delta Pro and extra battery with a smart generator while powering the house during an outage at the same time?

[@todd.parker]

Yep!

[@paulmills1605]

Hi from UK. Great review, I've 4 allpowers solar generators that perform well. But now I'm looking to build on them with the ecoflow range and this smart generator not for the European criss, but to invest for cost saving longevity. So you video has confirmed its suitability and when or if price is reduced, I will get one. My tip for you with the leaving the door slightly open and loss of heat etc. With pipe foam you could easily fill the gap. I've sliding patio door and use a similar system to allow for a Chinese heater heat exhaust to enter the house whilst keeping the draft and outside conditions out. Alternative is to make a small cut in the door to accommodate the lead, with a sliding internal and external mechanism to cover the hole when not in use. Hope this gives some food for thought and maybe a solution. Cheers

[@todd.parker]

Great tip, thanks!

[@johnnymoore6730]

Since it can use both propane and gasoline. It is definitly the best generator out in the market.

[@DonReality]

Can this be used as a stand-alone generator like any other without having the DELTA MAX or PRO ?

[@evolv.e]

@@DonRealityyes

[@tommyreusse3858]

wait you can run this thing inside?

[@KJPage]

Any chance you know the RPM in Eco Mode? I'm aware it will hike back up to 5000 RPM when loaded up.

[@SergioStarter]

This is an inverter generator, it can reduce engine speed if there is no load or it is very small. I can't say the exact number of revolutions in Eco mode, but I think it is about 2000-3000 RPM.

[@redpsycho90]

Thanks. I am thinking to power my house with the power-kit system from ecoflow. But for being fully offgrid I think the investment cost will be too big for financing this year. With power kit I would be able to expand extra batteries on later time and I am considering to buy this generator to help power the system when solar power is limited during winter.

[@davidlobaugh4490]

Kinda surprised it's not fuel injected. Does the auto start work without the app installed? Can the batts be made to trickle on solar, charge on mains/grid; and fire generator if grid down? Thanks in advance 🤠

[@todd.parker]

Auto start doesn’t need the app except to configure what battery % to kick on. You can set this up to favor solar and only use grid and the generator only if needed at least on the delta max and pro

[@davidlobaugh4490]

@@todd.parker So a fella can't plug it in, skip the app, and set the low/ high battery settings right on the device; forget about it except oil changes and fueling?

[@todd.parker]

@davidlobaugh4490 by default the smart generator will kick on at 20% and shut off at 80% so that’s what will happen out of the box with no app. If you want to adjust those thresholds, that’s where you need the app

[@davidlobaugh4490]

@@todd.parker much appreciated, I figured that, I don't have to do a bunch of homework or buy it to figure it out. 👌 Looks like might be ordering a unit(s).

[@lacy8658]

I like the fact that I can monitor the Smart Generator with the same App I use with my Delta Pro. tyre., 5th 5 fxx, xv n 6 gc gc )

[@99trampis]

Great vid! I just picked one of these up and love it so far. I'm trying to decide between the Delta Pro and the Delta Max + battery. I'm torn between the portability of the Max vs the output of the Pro as I'm trying to use the setup for camping as well as home backup. Any suggestions? Thanks and keep up the great videos!

[@todd.parker]

Thanks! If you don't need as much AC output or 240v, the Max is the way to go since it's a lot more portable. A LFP battery version should be coming in the next few months of you can wait...

[@gwp1616]

Thank you for the review - I currently have the EcoFlow Delta dual battery setup with the Hub that connects the 2 power generators - will the EcoSmart generator charge both batteries at the same time, or do you have to charge them separately? Also, can the power stations be in use pulling wattage when the EcoSmart is charging the batteries? Thank you in advance for your help

[@todd.parker]

It should be able to change and recharge from the generator at the same time. I don’t have a Pro so I can’t answer your first question, sorry

[@DonReality]

Can this be used as a stand alone generator without requiring the DELTA MAX or PRO generators?

[@todd.parker]

Yes it can by using the 120v AC plug but you're probably paying too much if you're not using the smart communication with the Delta power stations to auto start/stop and charge efficiency via DC.

[@DonReality]

​@@todd.parker Thank you soo much for your response and advise on this. I live in an area where the risks of black-outs are becoming likely, I wish to start off with this Dual fuel since LPG is quite cheap in the UK. At some stage in the future, I plan to kit out with the other DELTA generators. I just needed to know whether this was good enough for generic use like mini fridge and laptop.

[@todd.parker]

@@DonReality Them this seems like a good buy. You can use it directly to power your fridge and other appliances during a blackout and then eventually add a Delta

[@pierrotropi202]

Hi, i see you have 2 delta max with extra Batteries By any chance have you tried linking 2 delta max? Is the second max recognized as smart generator and working as if?

[@todd.parker]

I only have a single set of Delta Max + extra batteries so I haven’t tested that. Sorry!

[@pierrotropi202]

At 9'28" i see 2 deltas, each on an extra battery. Maybe the one on the left is a delta 2... So the question was to know if they would share energy from one delta to another, and eventually attached batteries. Nevermind. Don't blow it 😉

[@guybyersaz]

Love my Smart Gen & Delta Pro

[@todd.parker]

It’s a great combo!

[@schizophrenic2832]

This is something I could really use when I am off grid. I can use gas or propane at my convenience. c

[@LowOnCash]

Best EF genny review on KZbin - quick question does the EF generator have an inverter function like the Honda where it runs at a low speed and only increase when loaded using the 120 AC plug? Thanks Mike

[@todd.parker]

Thanks. Yes, I believe this is an inverter style generator

[@benjiebarker]

Oh this is cool…i was planning to create a battery bank to store extra electricity from solar…but propane is better…16kwh for one propane tank…so much cheaper than batteries

[@todd.parker]

Yeah, a mix of batteries and propane is a good way to be mostly renewable but have a kicker if the sun isn’t shining

[@doggpoundatl2594]

Nice video I already have a Dual Fuel xp13000 hx to charge my Delta max and my Delta mini but the Eco flow smart generator seems a nice edition 🤔

[@todd.parker]

It’s nice because of the automatic start/stop

[@jacksherman7445]

Nice Review! Todd, will this also charge the new Delta 2 through the proprietary DC cables?

[@todd.parker]

Thanks! It *should* work with the Delta 2 because it has the same port as the Max and Pro but Ecoflow is still working on firmware to support this.

[@martymiller9802]

Exhaust … how to connect?

[@todd.parker]

There isn’t an easy way to connect an exhaust hose as far as I know, it’s meant to be run outside

[@thechamp66]

@@todd.parker @Marty Miller you can add an exhaust extension and put the SG in a small enclosure to keep it out of teh elements kzbin.info/www/bejne/iX2noJegm717fZo kzbin.info/www/bejne/g3anaIdqhpeipNE

[@johncarr123]

Will it run on Natural Gas?

[@todd.parker]

Unfortunately no because the regular is internal which is slick but I don't see how you could connect a natural gas regulator without seriously voiding your warranty. Check out Johnny's Weekend - he has some cool videos on this topic.

[@marcopagliariccio330]

Quanto costa dove lo vendono

[@chuckmccollim]

Great review!

[@todd.parker]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@dennis9295]

Very helpful. Thanks.

[@davidcox8961]

This seems to be mostly a DC generator. That would be ideal for charging batteries. It would not be ideal for AC output though, I think ?? I'm just guessing but if it is indeed a DC generator then it is unique in that respect. Most generators are designed to output AC. I'm no electrical engineer so feel free to tell me I'm wrong.

[@todd.parker]

You’re right that DC output and Delta integration are what make it unique but it still a very good dual fuel AC generator too!

[@davidcox8961]

@@todd.parker I wonder how efficient it is to run it on AC ? I'm just asking. If I had this unit I'd use it to charge batteries, mostly. Years ago I converted my sailboat to electric drive. I had 8 Trogan lead acid 6 volt batts to make up a 48 volt system. This genset would of been great to have.

[@christophergabriel8060]

Power station 30 present turn on gas generator

[@user-jt5vm3mi1w]

I EAT MY GENERATOR

[@2point..0]

[@xxfire07]

No one talks about that fact that you can’t max out the amount of batteries that the Delta pro normal can expand to. In fact you lose 1/3 of batteries capacity just by having this generator waiting around to use its smart feature. For example: I have 2 Delta Pros and 4 extra batteries hooked up to my smart home panel. If I purchase 2 smart generators, I lose 2 Extra batteries because the Smart generators use the same extra battery ports. So at the start I just went from 21.6 kWh to 14.4 kWh with the Smart Generator. Now let’s say in both cases, I want my recharge my batteries once the get to 30%. In the example with maxed out batteries (21.6 kWh) I would have to start my generator when I have 6.48 kWh battery power left. The smart generator will auto start when I have 4.32 kWh power left. This means that I am reach empty a lot faster and the generator is kicking in a lot more. The trade off of 10% more efficient DC charging isn’t worth the loss of 7.2 kWh battery capacity from the start. A champion, Wen, Firman (or any other brand) inverter generator and a Reliance through the wall generator kit will save you hundreds of dollars and allow you to keep your windows and doors closed while you charge your batteries. Also some of these inverter generators now come with remote start key fobs so that you don’t even have to go outside to start the generator. So in short skip this junk and you will: increase your battery capacity save hundreds of dollars buying 1 not 2 generator, keep your windows and doors closed during a storm and start your generator from the comfort of the inside of your house.

[@todd.parker]

Thanks for that perspective. If they just added more expansion ports, it would make it much more useful.

[@xxfire07]

@@todd.parker Yes. Very true. If there were more expansion ports that would also make EcoFlow’s system more competitive with other companies like Bluetti, Zendure and others.

[@jroark101]

So how do you have to have two inlet ports one outside and one inside so you can charge your generator when it gets low from them outside with the smart generator? I seen a guy plug his gas generator outside and then plug is delta pro inside to power the house and charge it at the same time! That confused me

[@xxfire07]

@@jroark101 I’m not sure that I totally understand your question. But I will say this: the smart generator can only connect to 1 delta pro at a time when using its auto on auto off feature. It has a proprietary cable that charge the battery and send/receives data. In most cases you would have to figure out how to run this proprietary cable through your wall to make it work. Also the use of a gas/propane generator is just in case your solar is not making energy on bad weather days. There are many ways to make this work. I use a through the wall generator kit for my inverter generator.

[@xxfire07]

@Steve Paige Modify the exhaust??? I’m no mechanic or HVAC technician. All I know is that it is NEVER recommended that a generator be used indoors. I wouldn’t try it. That is above my skill set. Also carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas. So get your DIY modification wrong could cost you your life (or someone you love). I’m sorry to hear that your panel is not connecting to the internet. My panel is connected to the network and I can see what’s going on at home from work just by opening my app.

[@1stRanger]

Ecoflow should stop pushing this generator as an addition to their Delta. This is obviously a self-sufficient unit capable of everything any conventional generator does and even more. Ecoflow's wrong marketing in many cases makes clueless sellers to not recommend this unit only because buyers don't have Delta. Even some reviewers on KZbin do that. Ecoflow should start positioning this as a next generation device and simply mention seamless Delta integration as a good bonus in case you happened to own one. This way each device will boost sales of each other while selling better on their own. This is an example of how wrong marketing makes company lose sales by making people think it's not well suited for their needs, while it definitely is. They could easily sway Honda customers with their generators priced so similarly, but offering numerous features Honda doesn't and likely never will. Ofc Ecoflow will never read that nor will agree with things said.

[@todd.parker]

You're right that it is a great standalone generator but I think the value really increases a lot when combined with the Deltas.

[@1stRanger]

@@todd.parker But that’s the whole point. They position it as if it only gains value while being paired with Delta. While in reality they increase each other value.

[@jwrhynejr.6689]

Have a EF river 2 for a cpap & phone charging. Electricity has been shut off due to excessive cost associated with a defective smart meter. After the bankruptcy, I might comeback to get new set up for whole house off grid. Screw TXU & TNMP!!y