WEN 56200i Review

Ian Mutuli
Updated on
Ian Mutuli

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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WEN 56200i 2000-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter...
  • Dimensions: 18" x 11" x 18" | Weight: 48 lbs
  • Noise Level: 53 dB operation
  • EPA III and CARB Compliant 79.7 cc 4-stroke OHV engine produces...
  • Great for campgrounds, construction sites, tailgates and power...
  • Produces clean power to safely operate and prevent damage to...

Looking for a portable generator that is worth your hard-earned buck? Well, today we will look into WEN 56200i. The WEN 56200i Generator is worth your money and is known by many as a quiet generator.

The generator offers an output of 1600 watts rated and 2000 watts surge power. And as it is expected of good portable machines like this one, WEN 56200i emits clean energy. Its power is also stable and therefore perfect for electricity-sensitive connections.

On top of that, the compact build of this unit is impressive. And because of the compactness, it is easy to lift and carry the generator around as you wish. Making it truly portable machine ideal for your remote electrical needs.

As mentioned earlier, this is not a noisy machine. You will not even notice there is a generator running around. Compared to many other similar models, the WEN 56200 is very silent - only generating 51 decibels at a 25% load. This sound level is comparable to normal people’s conversations.

Because of this low noise output, the generator is highly recommended for camping, RVing, tailgating among other outdoor uses. It comes as EPA III and CARB compliant granting that it produces clean energy that is friendly to the environment.

Outstanding Features

  • Dimensions: 18 x 11 x 18 inches
  • Weights: 48lbs
  • 2 three-prong 120V receptacle
  • 1 5V USB port
  • Parallel connection
  • Carrying handle
  • Low oil shutdown
  • Overload protection
  • 51 decibels noise output
  • Two-year warranty
  • EPA III and CARB approved

1. Overall Performance

WEN 56200i is a generator designed with a powerful 80cc 4-stroke engine. The generator produces 1600 watts of power when running normally. And at peak power demand, it offers up to 2000 watts - making it an excellent unit. This performance is high and outshines many regular generators out there in the same class as WEN 56200i.

The generator is fuel-efficient, thanks to the eco-mode feature. It saves on the gas this generator uses to operate. Hence making it an unrivaled economy option.

Moreover, the generator is both EPA III and CARB compliant. This means that the engine and emissions it releases have been found to be non-pollutants. So, the generator can even be used to give power in places like national parks and it is safe for wildlife.

2. Fuel Tank Capacity and Runtime

WEN 56200i comes with a 1-gallon tank, which is definitely the standard for inverter generators across the industry. A full tank is capable of running the unit for 6 hours at 50% load. Looking at this runtime, it is curiously short when compared with other generators in the same competition.

The tank capacity is notably small, although it is the industry standard. This can only be annoying for fellows who would not want to keep watching over their generators while having fun.

In addition, the generator has an eco-mode function. Generally, this feature enables WEN 56200i to use fuel efficiently. The eco-mode automatically adjusts the speed of the engine to match the amount of the load. This means that there is no running of the engine on one speed throughout.

While eco-mode helps on the fuel economy of the generator, it does make it also run quieter. Especially when the load is smaller, at 25%.

3. Quiet Operation

Running under a 25% load, this generator is very quiet. It produces only 51 decibels of noise - excessively low to raise any noise concerns. However, this is not obviously the quietest model on the market. Honda EU2200i, for example, generates only 48 decibels.

 Overall, it is a quiet generator. This is why the noise it produces has been compared to normal human conversations by the US Department of Health and Human Services. WEN 56200i is therefore ideal to be used in public places.

To consolidate the quiet operation of this model, it comes with an eco-mode feature. This makes the generator adjust to low noise levels. Especially when running quarter loads.

4. Design and Portability

WEN 56200i has a compact build - as most portable generators do. The inverter generator measures just 18x11x18 inches, and it is sturdy generally. It weighs in at 48 lbs.; this can be effortlessly lifted and carried around. It also comes with a sturdy carrying handle to ensure that you do not falter.

The fact that it is a highly portable model makes it a match for many activities. Whether you are tailgating, camping or RVing, simply haul it along with you.

5. Control Panel

There is a control panel on the body of the generator. It has a low oil level and overloading indicators. Also, the generator comes with an automatic low oil shutdown, low fuel shutdown, and overload protection. With these, rest assured that even in case of hazards, your generator will still be in the perfect working condition.

The flexible control panel also features easy to use buttons, receptacles, and switches. The Switch ON button also activates the eco-mode to increase fuel efficiency. The parallel connection outlets are found below the eco-mode function. You can link one WEN 56200i generator to another using this connection.

Other features you can see on the control panel include circuit breaker, four outlets, and a grounding nut.

6. Parallel Connection

WEN 56200i used alone may only generate power for a few electrical items. But two of these generators connected together will obviously produce a lot more energy. To support this goal, a WEN parallel connection kit will up your two generators. The only sad thing about the connection kit is that you have to purchase it separately. This means more costs on your side.

7. Power Outlets

The WEN 56200i model does not fall short on ports and outlets for charging or connecting your electrical items. The generator has two convenient three-pronged 120V sockets and one 12V DC receptacle. In addition, you will get a useful multipurpose USB port to connect your devices including phones, electronic equipment, and other portable devices.

With this variety of ports and sockets, the WEN 56200i model is a ready-to-go option for all your needs.

8. User-Friendliness

Generally, the WEN 56200i generator is easy to use or maneuver. It is also safe to operate. The simple control panel has indicators for low oil levels and overloading. Its automatic shutdown feature activates once the unit runs low on fuel. While there is overload protection to ensure that the generator and the items connected are all free from potential damage.

The model weighs only 48 lbs. This is quite imperative when it comes to handling it. Most people will find it lightweight and thus, easy to carry around from place to place. This convenience is the reason why the generator has attracted over 700 buyers on Amazon.

No to mention that the WEN 56200i is also very quiet. Therefore, you can use it in the public space with minimum fuss. Besides, its emissions are not harmful to the environment either. Of course, these are the reasons why the generator is EPA III and CARB compliant.

The manual recoil system may seem a bit tedious for starting this generator. But once that is completed, the on/off/choke turning knob on the control panel does the rest of the starting process.

9. Warranty

One of the benchmarks of a product’s credibility is the warranty it comes with. WEN 56200i is covered by a 2-year warranty for non-commercial uses. If you are purchasing the generator for commercial purposes, the warranty will be for three months only.

According to WEN 56200i manual, the warranty offered covers any faults and defects within the specified period. For any repairs or replacement for your defective product, ensure that you provide proof of purchase.

However, do not return the generator to the retailer where you made the purchase. Instead, call the manufacturer’s toll-free customer care number provided. The customer support will advise accordingly which service center you need to visit for help.

The WEN Company will replace or repair your unit without charge of labor or the new parts used for replacement. But as expected, the customer takes care of the shipping expenses to and from the service center. Whatever way, make sure that you adhere to their instructions strictly.

10. Pricing

In the industry where the performance of a product might be judged based on its cost, WEN 56200i is a bang for the money. There are many costly generators out there - with high-end features that promise mind-blowing performances.

WEN 56200i does not disappoint in terms of price. It is a middle-class buy at just $430. Meaning, you do not need to overspend to get it. At the same time, it is not a very cheap model - technically, it is just above the budget level.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Pricing
The price point of the WEN 56200i generator is not overwhelming for budget level buyers. With features almost matching high-end models’, the $430 is a bang on the money.

This simply means that you get more features for less money. You can say that this model is three less than the cost of a Honda EU2200.

Quiet Operation
Apart from power ratings, the other major point to consider in a portable generator nowadays is quiet operation. The WEN 56200i is very quiet; you would not notice its presence in the surrounding when you are about 50 feet away.

User-Friendly
The generator is also easy to use. Right from starting it to operating the control panel functions. You also get an instruction manual for guidance and reference on its usage.

The fact that it is lightweight and portable makes it easy to handle. It has a comfortable and sturdy carry handle and you can lift it with effortlessly.

You can also maintain it easily, thanks to the user manual with clear instructions.

Portable
Because it weighs only 48 lbs., this generator is a lightweight model. Thus, it is portable and can be used in many outdoor activities.

Safe
The WEN 56200i generator is the right unit to have around for safety. Producing the pure sine wave power, it is free from the unexpected but regular power surges. This keeps your generator and devices from any potential damage. So, you can charge or connect your delicate electronics such as laptops and mobile phones.

Fuel-Efficient
Thanks to the eco-mode, the WEN 56200i model is great on fuel economy. The eco-mode feature helps to adjust engine speed to match the current load. At a 25% load, a lot of fuel is spared.

Cons

  • Pouring oil into this generator is a bit difficult as reported by a number of users on Amazon.
  • Some also feel that WEN company offers a limited warranty and support
  • Short runtime is also a feature of discomfort for some reviewers. They feel 6 hours for a full tank is short.
  • The fuel tank may not have the right capacity for serious tailgaters and RViers.

Final Verdict

Is WEN 56200i Worth the Money?

To be precise, WEN 56200i is worth the money you pay. Therefore, we can advise you to purchase the generator with confidence that it will serve your interest in the latter. This model does not only provide many features for a few bucks but it also performs like the top, top models in the market.

And if you are looking for a quiet unit, WEN 56200i seems to be an ideal pick. The generator’s noise output is a measly 51 decibels, of course at quarter load. This carries massive benefits for those wishing to use in it in campsites, RV parks, and places where noise is strictly prohibited.

Ian Mutuli

About the author

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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