Your Honda EU6500is isn't just a generator; it's a powerful, portable energy solution designed to keep your home, RV, or job site humming. But like any high-performance tool, its true potential is unlocked and refined with the right companions. Investing in the essential accessories for your Honda EU6500is isn't just about adding features; it's about maximizing its power, enhancing safety, boosting convenience, and ultimately, extending its lifespan and utility.
We’re not just talking about shiny gadgets here. We're diving into the gear that transforms your already excellent generator into an indispensable part of your emergency preparedness, off-grid adventures, or professional toolkit. From seamless home power integration to robust portability solutions, understanding these accessories is key to getting the most out of your investment.
At a Glance: Your EU6500is Accessory Checklist
- Remote Start Kits: Start and stop your generator from a distance for ultimate convenience.
- Transfer Switches: Safely connect your generator directly to your home's electrical panel.
- Battery Tenders: Keep your generator's battery charged and ready for instant starts.
- RV Adapter Plugs: Easily connect your generator to your recreational vehicle.
- Wheel Kit: Essential for effortless mobility of this powerful unit.
- Custom-Fit Covers: Protect your investment from the elements.
- No-Spill Fuel Cans: Fuel up safely and efficiently without waste.
- DC Charging Cord: A handy tool for charging 12V automotive batteries.
- Airstar Lighting Kits: Turn your generator into a powerful, portable light source.
Beyond the Box: Why Accessories Matter for Your EU6500is
The Honda EU6500is stands out in the generator market for its potent 6500 watts of inverter power, renowned quiet operation, and fuel efficiency. It’s built with Honda’s legendary reliability, making it a go-to for backup power, remote worksites, and RV escapades. But even the best engine needs the right tools to perform optimally in diverse situations.
Think of it this way: your EU6500is is a high-performance vehicle. While it runs perfectly well on its own, accessories are like adding GPS, all-weather tires, or a robust roof rack. They don't just add flair; they unlock new capabilities, enhance safety, and make your generator more adaptable to your specific needs. Maximizing your generator's power output isn't just about its wattage; it's also about how efficiently, safely, and conveniently you can access and deploy that power. For a more complete overview of this powerhouse, you might want to check out Your Honda 6500 generator guide.
Let's explore the essential accessories that truly elevate the Honda EU6500is experience.
Taking Control: Remote Start & Battery Care
One of the biggest conveniences for any electric start generator, especially a larger one like the EU6500is, is the ability to control it remotely. Imagine a power outage in the middle of a storm; you don't want to trudge out into the rain to fire up your generator.
Wireless Remote Start Kits: Power at Your Fingertips
For EU series generators with electric start, which includes your EU6500is, wireless remote start kits are game-changers. These kits allow you to start and stop your generator from up to 75 feet away. This means you can keep your generator stored safely outside, and power it up from the comfort of your home or RV with a simple press of a button. Some advanced kits even offer smartphone integration via Bluetooth, giving you even more control.
Why it matters:
- Convenience: No more heading outside in inclement weather.
- Safety: You can keep the generator in a well-ventilated area away from living spaces.
- Efficiency: Start it only when needed, conserving fuel.
When selecting a kit, ensure it's compatible with "most electric start models with automatic choke" to match your EU6500is. Note that specific EU7000iS kits are for older models and not compatible with newer EU7000iS units (with Bluetooth/CO-MINDER) or other EU series generators like yours.
Keeping the Power Flowing: Battery Tenders
An electric start generator relies on a good battery to fire up instantly. Nothing's more frustrating than needing power during an emergency only to find your generator's battery is dead. This is where a fully automatic battery tender comes in.
How it helps:
- Ready When You Are: A battery tender constantly monitors and maintains your generator's battery charge without overcharging, ensuring it’s always ready to go.
- Extends Battery Life: Consistent charge cycles prevent sulfation, a common cause of battery failure, significantly extending the life of your generator's battery.
- Peace of Mind: You don’t have to worry about manually charging or disconnecting the battery.
This simple, affordable accessory is a must-have for any electric start generator, guaranteeing reliability when you need it most.
Connecting Safely: The Critical Role of Transfer Switches
If your primary goal is to provide backup power to your home, a transfer switch isn't just an accessory; it's a non-negotiable safety device. Connecting a generator directly to your home's electrical system without a transfer switch (often called "backfeeding") is incredibly dangerous and illegal. It can send electricity back into the utility grid, potentially electrocuting linemen working to restore power.
Understanding Transfer Switches
A transfer switch safely isolates your home's electrical system from the utility grid before allowing generator power to flow in. When utility power is out, you manually (or automatically, with some models) flip the switch to generator power. When utility power returns, you switch back.
Key benefits:
- Safety First: Prevents dangerous backfeeding into the utility lines.
- Seamless Power: Allows you to power specific circuits in your home directly from the generator.
- Code Compliance: Required by electrical codes for permanent generator installations.
Types of Transfer Switches: APC, GenTran, Reliance
Several reputable brands offer transfer switches tailored for generators like the EU6500is, designed to handle its power output.
- APC Universal Transfer Switches (UTS): These are advanced automatic transfer switches (ATS) that offer features like adaptive load management (automatic load shedding) and UPS battery backup connections. If you're looking for sophisticated automation and smart power management, an APC UTS might be an excellent choice, though they typically represent a higher investment.
- GenTran Transfer Switches: Known for their expandability, GenTran switches can be configured with 6, 10, or 12 circuits and are designed for generators ranging from 3800 watts to 12,500 watts. This makes them a strong contender for your EU6500is, allowing you to power a good selection of essential home circuits. During installation, they can often be expanded to include up to 16 circuits.
- Reliance Transfer Switches: Offering turn-key, pre-wired models in 8 and 10 circuit configurations, Reliance switches are often favored for their ease of installation. They typically don't require additional feeder breakers, simplifying the setup process for many homeowners.
Choosing the Right Transfer Switch for Your Home
Selecting the right transfer switch depends on several factors:
- Wattage Compatibility: Ensure the switch is rated for at least 6500 watts (or higher for a safety margin). Your EU6500is fits well within the range of most home transfer switches.
- Number of Circuits: How many circuits do you want to power during an outage? Think about essentials like your refrigerator, lights, furnace fan, well pump, and a few outlets.
- Manual vs. Automatic:
- Manual Transfer Switch (MTS): Requires you to physically switch from utility to generator power. More affordable and common.
- Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS): Detects power loss and automatically starts the generator and transfers power. More expensive but offers ultimate convenience, especially if you're not home during an outage.
- Installation: Professional installation by a licensed electrician is crucial for any transfer switch. They will ensure it meets local codes and is wired correctly.
Power on the Go: RV Adapters & Portable Needs
The Honda EU6500is is a favorite for RV owners due to its quiet operation and substantial power. But connecting it to your RV sometimes requires a specific adapter.
RV Adapter Plugs: Making Your Adventures Easier
Most RVs use a 30A RV-ready receptacle, while generators like your EU6500is typically feature a 30A L5-30 locking receptacle. An RV adapter plug specifically converts the L5-30 locking receptacle to an RV-ready outlet.
Benefits for RVers:
- Direct Connection: Powers your RV's entire electrical system efficiently.
- Standardized Compatibility: Bridges the gap between generator output and RV input.
Always ensure the adapter you choose is rated for 30 amps and designed for the L5-30 to RV connection. This small adapter is a huge convenience for anyone using their EU6500is to power their home-on-wheels.
Moving & Protecting Your Investment: Mobility & Covers
While the EU6500is is considered "portable," at over 250 pounds dry weight, it's not something you want to lift frequently. Mobility accessories are key, as is protection.
Getting Around: The Case for a Wheel Kit
Honda offers a 4-wheel kit with locking front swivel casters and 6-inch rear wheels for models like the EU3000is. While a specific Honda-branded wheel kit might not be listed explicitly for the EU6500is in all accessory catalogs, the necessity for a heavy unit of this size is undeniable. Many owners of larger generators seek out compatible heavy-duty wheel kits or universal options designed for heavy equipment.
Why a wheel kit is crucial for your EU6500is:
- Effortless Movement: Easily transport your generator across your property, to your RV, or around a job site without straining your back.
- Maneuverability: Swivel casters make it simple to position the generator precisely.
- Damage Prevention: Reduces the risk of dropping or dragging the unit, preventing damage to its frame or components.
When looking for a wheel kit, confirm compatibility with your EU6500is or opt for a robust, heavy-duty universal generator wheel kit that can safely support its weight. Always prioritize stability and sturdy construction.
Shielding Your Asset: Custom-Fit Generator Covers
Your EU6500is is an investment, and like any investment, it deserves protection. A custom-fitted, water-resistant generator cover is designed to shield your unit from the elements.
Protective advantages:
- Weather Resistance: Guards against rain, snow, dust, and UV rays, preventing corrosion and fading.
- Longevity: Helps maintain the generator's appearance and operational integrity over time.
- Security: Some covers may offer a slight deterrent against casual theft, although they are not a security device.
Honda offers covers in various colors and styles. Choose one specifically designed for the EU6500is or a similarly sized Honda EU series generator for the best fit and protection.
Fueling Smart, Powering Bright: Management & Illumination
Beyond basic operation, certain accessories optimize how you fuel your generator and how you utilize its power for other tasks, like lighting.
No-Spill Fuel Cans: Safety and Efficiency
Fueling a generator can be messy and hazardous if not done carefully. No-Spill Fuel Cans are designed to make this process safer and cleaner. They feature thumb-button control for precise fueling, preventing spills and overfills.
Benefits of No-Spill Cans:
- Safety: Reduces exposure to fuel vapors and minimizes fire hazards.
- Efficiency: Prevents fuel waste, ensuring every drop goes into your tank.
- Compliance: Many are CARB compliant, meeting strict environmental standards.
- Child-Resistant Features: Adds an extra layer of safety in a home environment.
Always use fresh, high-quality fuel for your Honda EU6500is, and complement it with a reliable, safe fuel can.
DC Charging Cord: A Versatile Power-Up
Your EU6500is, like many Honda generators, has a 12V DC output. A DC charging cord connects to this output and typically terminates in alligator clips, allowing you to charge any 12V automotive-type battery.
Practical uses:
- Emergency Battery Boost: Great for jump-starting a dead car battery in a pinch.
- Maintenance: Can top off RV or boat batteries while off-grid.
- Versatility: Adds another layer of utility to your generator beyond AC power.
This is a simple, often overlooked accessory that can be incredibly useful in a variety of situations.
Brightening Your Worksite: Airstar Lighting Kits
Your 6500-watt generator is capable of powering much more than just essential appliances. For those needing significant illumination, especially on job sites, emergency scenes, or for events, Airstar Lighting Kits are an excellent pairing with Honda generators.
Illumination benefits:
- Powerful Lighting: Available in four kits ranging from 750w to 4000w, providing substantial light coverage.
- Versatile Applications: Ideal for construction, emergency & rescue, recreational use, or events.
- Honda Compatibility: Designed to integrate seamlessly with the power output of Honda generators.
While smaller Tele-Lite kits are available for the EU1000i, EU2000i, and EU2200i, the higher wattage Airstar kits are a perfect match for the robust output of your EU6500is, transforming it into a mobile light tower.
What Not to Expect: Common Misconceptions & Compatibility
It's just as important to understand what accessories aren't compatible or necessary for your EU6500is, to avoid confusion and wasted investment.
Parallel Operation: Not for the EU6500is
While many smaller Honda EU series generators (like the EU1000i, EU2200i, EU3000i Handi, and EU3000is) can be linked with an identical unit using a parallel kit and cables to double their power output, the Honda EU6500is does not support parallel operation.
Why this is important:
- Inherent Power: The EU6500is already provides a significant 6500 watts, making parallel operation unnecessary for most applications where a single unit excels.
- Design Limitations: Parallel technology is typically integrated into lower-wattage, more portable inverter generators to offer flexibility between light-duty and heavier power demands.
- Avoid Misinformation: Do not attempt to link two EU6500is units, as this is not supported by Honda and could be dangerous.
If you require more than 6500 watts, you would need a larger, single generator designed for that output, rather than trying to parallel two EU6500is units.
Generic vs. Honda-Approved Accessories
While the market is flooded with generic generator accessories, there’s a distinct advantage to choosing Honda-approved or high-quality, reputable third-party options.
Considerations:
- Compatibility: Honda accessories are designed to fit and function perfectly with your specific model, ensuring optimal performance and safety.
- Quality & Durability: Honda’s reputation for quality extends to its accessories, often meaning better materials and construction.
- Warranty: Using non-approved accessories, especially for critical components, could potentially void parts of your generator’s warranty.
- Safety Standards: Reputable accessories adhere to safety standards (e.g., CARB compliance for fuel cans, UL listings for electrical components), reducing risks.
For critical items like transfer switches or fuel cans, investing in quality from trusted brands is always the smartest move.
Making the Right Choices: Your Accessory Action Plan
With so many options, how do you decide which accessories are truly essential for you? It boils down to your primary use case and priorities.
Prioritizing Your Needs
- Home Backup: If your main purpose is home backup, a transfer switch is paramount for safety and integration. A wireless remote start kit and battery tender will add immense convenience and reliability. A custom cover protects your investment while it waits for its call to action.
- RV & Outdoor Use: For RVers, an RV adapter plug is crucial. A wheel kit makes positioning the heavy EU6500is a breeze. No-spill fuel cans and a DC charging cord are practical additions for extended trips.
- Worksite/Emergency Services: If you're using your generator for professional tasks or emergency response, a wheel kit and Airstar lighting kit become high priorities. A remote start can save time on a busy site, and rugged fuel cans are a given.
Start with the accessories that address your biggest pain points or enhance the most critical functions. Then, gradually add others that improve convenience or expand capabilities.
Installation Insights
While many accessories like covers, fuel cans, or RV adapter plugs are plug-and-play, others require professional installation.
- Transfer Switches: Always hire a licensed electrician to install a transfer switch. This ensures compliance with electrical codes, proper wiring, and, most importantly, the safety of your home and utility workers.
- Remote Start Kits: While some technically savvy individuals might tackle these, if it involves wiring into the generator's internal systems, professional installation can prevent damage and ensure correct function.
- Wheel Kits: These are generally straightforward, bolt-on installations that most users can handle with basic tools.
When in doubt, consult your Honda dealer or a qualified technician. Investing in professional installation for critical accessories is an investment in safety and peace of mind.
Final Thoughts: Empowering Your EU6500is Experience
Your Honda EU6500is is a powerhouse on its own, but with the right essential accessories, it transforms into an even more versatile, convenient, and indispensable tool. Whether you're safeguarding your home, embarking on an RV adventure, or powering a remote job site, these thoughtfully chosen additions enhance safety, streamline operation, and protect your investment for years to come.
By understanding what's available and prioritizing based on your specific needs, you're not just buying add-ons; you're investing in a more capable, reliable, and user-friendly power solution. Power outages, remote work, and off-grid living don't have to be a hassle. With these accessories, your Honda EU6500is will be ready to tackle whatever comes its way, maximizing its power and providing unwavering performance when you need it most.