Are Firman Generators Any Good?

When I first considered buying a generator, I wanted something reliable, efficient, and at least reasonably priced. That’s when Firman caught my eye. 

Firman has built a good reputation over the years for offering powerful generators at competitive prices, making them accessible to everyday homeowners and small businesses alike. 

While my experience with Firman has had its ups and downs, I’ve found that when maintained properly, Firman generators offer great value to their owners. 

But don’t just take my word for it—let’s also dig down into what other users have to say about this well-known brand, both the good and the not-so-good.

Why Firman Generators Appeal to Buyers

One of the main reasons people are drawn to Firman is its affordability. Generators are typically big-ticket items, and not everyone can afford brands like Honda or Generac. 

Firman provides a solid alternative, offering similar features but at a fraction of the price. For many, this cost-effectiveness is a huge selling point.

• Affordability: Firman generators are priced lower than many of their competitors, offering similar features without the hefty price tag. For many buyers, this is the most appealing factor, especially when brands like Honda and Generac come with higher costs.

• Dual-fuel capability: Many Firman models are dual-fuel, meaning they can run on either gasoline or propane. This flexibility is great for emergencies when one type of fuel might be easier to find than the other.

• High wattage output: Firman generators often offer higher wattage compared to other models in their price range. This makes them a good option for powering larger appliances or multiple devices at once.

• Portability: Firman has a range of models, some of which are compact and easy to transport, making them perfect for activities like camping or as backup power during tailgating events.

In short, Firman checks many boxes for the average consumer looking for a dependable generator without spending a fortune. However, as with any other products, there are mixed reviews.

My Personal Experience with Firman Generators

In my personal experience, Firman has proven to be a reliable brand. The generator I purchased performed well during a power outage, providing the electricity I needed to keep essential appliances running. One of the things I appreciated the most was the fuel efficiency—running on propane, it lasted longer than I had expected. 

While I haven’t encountered significant problems, I’ve seen others mention some recurring issues, which I’ll discuss later. From my standpoint, though, Firman delivers on its promise of affordability and functionality. Yes, it’s not the top-of-the-line brand, but for what you pay, it offers excellent value. But of course, not every user has the same experience.

Common Concerns from Other Users

Although Firman generators have been well-received by many, there are some recurring issues that other users have reported, particularly in forums like Reddit. It’s important to be aware of these before making a purchase, so you can weigh the pros and cons.

1. Build Quality and Longevity

Some users have expressed concerns about the long-term durability of Firman generators. Complaints range from broken components to the generator struggling under heavy load after extended periods of use.

One user on Reddit mentioned, “I had mine for two years, and it worked great until it started having trouble with RPMs. The power output became unreliable.”

However, it’s important to note that regular maintenance is key for any generator, regardless of the brand. This includes cleaning the carburetor, changing the oil, and using high-quality fuel. Firman is no exception; skipping these essential steps can lead to performance issues down the line.

2. Customer Support and Warranty Issues

Another recurring theme in negative reviews is dissatisfaction with Firman’s customer support. Some users reported long wait times for service or difficulty in getting replacement parts.

A user wrote, “When my Firman generator broke down, it took over a month to get it repaired because parts weren’t available. I was disappointed in the after-sales support.”

While this is a valid concern, other users have shared more positive experiences with Firman’s customer service. One user mentioned that while it took time to receive the part they needed, Firman eventually resolved the issue to their satisfaction.

3. Noise Levels

Firman generators, particularly the larger models, tend to be louder than some of their competitors. This can be a dealbreaker for those looking for something quiet, especially in residential areas.

That being said, this isn’t a unique issue to Firman. Most conventional generators are noisy, especially at higher power outputs. If noise is a significant concern, Firman’s inverter generators are a quieter alternative, designed for more sensitive environments like camping or outdoor events.

Highlighting Positive Feedback from Firman Users

Despite the negative experiences, it’s important to recognize that many users are happy with their Firman generators. Some Reddit users reported flawless operation during power outages and praised the dual-fuel capability. 

One user shared, “I bought my Firman for $500, and it worked great during a week-long power outage. The dual-fuel option really came in handy.”

Another commented, “My Firman generator has been a workhorse for my small workshop. It runs smoothly, even when I’m using multiple power tools at once.”

These testimonials highlight Firman’s core strengths: affordability, versatility, and overall reliability when used properly and maintained.

Firman Generators: Pros and Cons

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Are Firman generators environmentally friendly (EPA and CARB compliant)?

Yes, many Firman generators meet modern environmental standards, making them a good choice if you’re concerned about emissions. Most models are EPA-compliant, which means they follow the guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to limit air pollution. Some Firman generators are also CARB-certified, meaning they meet the stricter emissions requirements in California, where air quality laws are tougher.

If you live in California or a state with similar environmental regulations, choosing a CARB-compliant generator is essential. These certifications show that Firman is committed to reducing harmful emissions, making their generators more eco-friendly while still delivering the power you need. Always check for these certifications when buying, especially if you want to minimize your environmental impact.

2. Where are Firman generators made?

Firman generators are manufactured by Sumec, a subsidiary of the Sinomach group, in China. Despite being made overseas, Firman generators meet international safety and performance standards.

3. What’s the warranty on Firman generators?

Firman typically offers a 3-year warranty on their generators, which covers parts and labor for defects in materials or workmanship. However, this warranty can vary depending on the model and location, so it’s important to check the specific terms when making a purchase.

Final Thoughts: Are Firman Generators Worth It?

So, are Firman generators a good investment? In my experience, they certainly are—if you’re looking for a generator that balances cost and performance. Firman generators deliver solid power output, have the flexibility of dual-fuel options, and are relatively easy to maintain if you stay on top of regular servicing.

Of course, no generator is without its downsides, and Firman is no exception. There are concerns regarding customer service, noise, and durability, but these issues aren’t unique to Firman. Many of the complaints seem to stem from poor maintenance or expectations that rival high-end brands like Honda or Generac.

At the end of the day, Firman is a practical choice for homeowners, campers, and small business owners looking for a dependable generator that won’t break the bank. With proper care and maintenance, Firman can stand the test of time, providing reliable power when you need it most.