Unleash the Power with the Wen 56200i Inverter Generator

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Background on the Brand
3. Why I Chose the Wen Inverter Generator
4. Unboxing and Setup
5. Filling up with Oil and Gasoline
6. Starting and Operating the Generator
7. Testing Noise Levels
8. Power Output and Performance
9. Safety and Durability
10. Comparisons to Other Generators
11. Final Thoughts and Recommendation

Why the Wen Inverter Generator is Worth Considering

Introduction

In this article, we will be reviewing the Wen Inverter Generator, a product that I recently purchased and have been eagerly waiting to share my thoughts on. As an American-based company, Wen may not be as well-known as some of its competitors, but they have a long history in manufacturing power tools since the 1950s. In this article, we will walk through the unboxing, setup, performance, noise levels, power output, safety, durability, and more. Join me as I share my experience and insights on why the Wen Inverter Generator is a worthy contender in the market.

Background on the Brand

When exploring inverter generators, it's essential to understand the brand behind the product. Wen is an American-based company that operates under Great Lakes Technologies. With years of experience in manufacturing power tools, Wen has built a reputation for producing reliable and quality products. Despite being relatively small compared to industry giants, Wen has garnered positive reviews on platforms like Amazon, which piqued my interest in exploring their inverter generator range.

Why I Chose the Wen Inverter Generator

When I first started researching inverter generators, it became clear that well-known brands like Honda, Champion, and Generac dominated the market. However, their higher price points and mixed reviews on the cheaper options left me searching for alternatives. This is when I stumbled upon the Wen Inverter Generator. Priced at $499 MSRP, it seemed almost too good to be true. As I delved deeper into my research, I discovered that the Wen Inverter Generator was not only affordable but also an American-made product, which instilled confidence in its quality. Positive reviews on Amazon and insightful video reviews on YouTube further convinced me to give it a try. Although I did purchase the unit, I managed to secure a slight discount. It's worth noting that the Wen Inverter Generator frequently goes on sale for $375 to $400, so keep an eye out for those deals.

Unboxing and Setup

Upon receiving the Wen Inverter Generator, I was pleased to see that it came well-packaged in a box. Despite a minor mishap with rainwater seeping into the box during storage, the unit remained unharmed. Inside the box, I found a comprehensive manual, warranty information, some necessary tools, and a funnel. The Wen Inverter Generator boasts a two-year warranty and offers the convenience of a nationwide network of service technicians, eliminating the need to ship the unit back to the manufacturer for repairs.

Filling up with Oil and Gasoline

Before firing up the generator, the first step was to fill it up with oil. It's important to note that the Wen Inverter Generator does not come with oil, so it's essential to purchase 30-weight oil separately. When attempting to open the access door over the oil spout, I encountered a minor issue with the build quality. While the rest of the unit exhibited good fit and finish, the door seemed to be the only area where the quality fell slightly short. Nevertheless, the generator only requires a third of a quart of oil, which can be a little tricky to measure accurately. I opted to use 10w30 automotive oil, which is suitable as per the manual's recommendations.

Starting and Operating the Generator

Starting the Wen Inverter Generator is a straightforward process. After filling it up with gasoline, the first step is to open the pressure relief valve on the gas tank's top. Turning the big knob on the front from "off" to "choke" sets the generator in the starting position. It's worth mentioning that, like most generators in this class, the Wen Inverter Generator is a pull-start device. Once in position, a few pulls on the cord should get gasoline into the motor, allowing it to start. After approximately 30 seconds of running on choke, the knob can be turned to "run." In this position, the RPM increases slightly, indicating that the generator is running under a load. Additionally, there is an eco-mode switch that lowers the RPM to save gas when it detects that there is no load. While this mode makes the generator quieter and more fuel-efficient, it's important to note that plugging in a significant load may result in a slight delay before the engine kicks up the RPM to provide sufficient power.

Testing Noise Levels

To get a sense of the noise levels produced by the Wen Inverter Generator, I decided to conduct a semi-scientific test. Using a decibel meter on my phone, I measured the noise levels at both high and low RPMs from varying distances. The results aligned closely with the manufacturer's claims, with the generator rating at 51 decibels under a quarter load. From about 20 feet away, the noise was barely noticeable, and even when I went inside the house and shut the door, the generator's sound was effectively muted. Comparatively, the Honda EU 2200 I, which comes at double the price, registered only 3 decibels lower than the Wen Inverter Generator.

Power Output and Performance

To assess the generator's power output and performance, I decided to put it to the test under a significant load. I connected it to the largest load I could find - a microwave. It took a little over six seconds for the generator to spin up the RPM and stabilize, providing enough power to run the microwave on high, which requires approximately a thousand watts. This test highlighted the slight delay when the eco-mode is engaged, as it takes some time for the generator to reach full power output. However, for typical household appliances and devices, this delay is negligible. The Wen Inverter Generator proves to be a reliable and capable power source for various needs.

Safety and Durability

Safety is a crucial aspect when it comes to generators, and the Wen Inverter Generator met my expectations. During my testing, I ensured that all the panels, except for the exhaust pipe, were safe to touch. To my satisfaction, the surfaces remained cool to the touch, indicating proper insulation and efficient heat dissipation. Additionally, the build quality of the unit, apart from the minor issue with the access door, seemed robust and durable. While it is essential to ground the generator to a grounding rod, as mentioned in the manual, it is understandable that most users may not do so.

Comparisons to Other Generators

When considering the Wen Inverter Generator, it's important to compare it with its competitors. While brands like Honda hold a stellar reputation and are known for their exceptional quietness and performance, their higher price tags may not be suitable for everyone. The Wen Inverter Generator offers a more affordable alternative without compromising on quality and functionality. It's always wise to evaluate specific needs and budget before making a decision.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

In conclusion, the Wen Inverter Generator presents itself as a reliable, cost-effective, American-made alternative in the market. It performs admirably, with excellent power output, minimal noise levels, and a robust build quality. While there may be some minor design flaws, such as the access door, they do not significantly impact the overall usability and performance of the generator. For those who are looking to supplement their power needs or require a portable and efficient power source, the Wen Inverter Generator is undoubtedly worth considering. It provides excellent value for money and a level of performance that rivals more expensive options. I am confident in recommending the Wen Inverter Generator to anyone in need of a dependable and wallet-friendly solution for their power requirements.