Portable Generator Power when off grid or emergencies

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WEN 56203i Portable Generator 2021 Review

In as much as we rely on electricity for most of our operations, sometimes that electricity may not be available, forcing us to look for an alternative option. One of the best options is a generator. 

 

Generators are great secondary power supply products that can come in handy during a blackout or when you take a camping trip to enjoy nature.

There are several types of generators available, but one of the most critical factors you should consider is portability. 

 

The capacity of that generator also matters because it determines how long it will be able to supply you with the power you need.

The capacity of the generator is also affected by the number of appliances you expect to use. For instance, a 2000 watt generator is usually capable of powering up and running most small appliances, but it won’t be enough to handle larger appliances.

 

Although there are many options in the market, one of the most popular ones is the WEN-56203i generator. This 2000 watt generator is one of the best products from WEN and considered the most versatile generator in the market currently. 

 

Given the reviews this generator has on Amazon it’s safe to say that it an excellent product to invest in. This WEN 56203i review looks into the features and the performance capacity of this generator.

 

This unit can even run moderately-powerful appliances like a microwave, Lighting or heating in those colder climates. No wonder if features well in our TOP 10 Budget Portable Generator Review.

And of course, there is the classic generator use: electricity in the case of emergency. If your power goes out, you can keep the house full of light and warmth, and even the modern-day essentials like Wifi and the internet to keep the children happy.

I have used one of these generators in many power-outs to keep my aquarium running through the longer power out periods as not to lose my beloved aquarium fish!

There are many reasons why you may want a new portable power generator. But is the WEN 56203i the right one for your needs? Does it have the power and functions to solve your power issues off-grid or in a home emergency?

Let’s take a closer look at the WEN 56203i and see how it compares to other models on the market today.

WEN 56203i Super Quiet 2000-Watt Portable Inverter...
  • Ultralight body weighs in at a mere 39 pounds for easy transport and storage
  • Extremely quiet operation comparable to the sound of a normal conversation according to the US Department of...
  • Produces 2000 surge watts and 1700 rated watts of clean power for safe charging of sensitive electronics...
  • Fuel shutoff maximizes the generator’s lifespan by using up the remaining fuel in the carburetor before...
  • Includes two three-prong 120V receptacles, one 12V DC receptacle, two 5V USB ports, and a two-year warranty

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Contents

The competition Generators to compare

Table could not be displayed.

In a hurry? See our ratings below

Size & Weight
91%
Performance under full load
92%
Noise Level
92%
Reliability
94%
Easy to start & Use
92%
Value For Money
97%
Our Rating
94%

See Customer Reviews On Amazon

Key Features

● Portable. This generator is lightweight, with a compact casing. This makes it easy to carry and perfect for travel. There is even a handle, molded to the case for a streamlined design.

● Low oil shutdown. To avoid any damage to the unit, this generator also has an automatic shut down in the case of low oil.

● Overload protection. To preserve the unit, and any plugged-in devices, this unit comes with a circuit breaker. This will serve as overload protection and help keep everything secure.

● Quiet function. This generator is known for its low noise emission (only about 51db). This helps to avoid disturbing nearby campers and to preserve the sounds of nature. Among generators of all kinds, this is a highly sought-after feature. Check out the sound rating in our TOP 10 Quietest Generator Review.

● Inverter. Inverter generators are gentle with delicate electronics, fuel-efficient, quiet, and are generally some of the best of their kind available.

● Perfect for emergencies. This generator can serve as a lifesaving backup in the case of a storm, earthquake, power outage, or the like. With this unit, you can keep lights and heat on, warm your food, and more. Knowing that you will always be able to access these necessities is a great way to stay calm.

Features

  • It has a fuel capacity of 1 gallon
  • Can run for 7 hours
  • Comes with a 2000 watts capacity with a running wattage of 17000W
  • 79.9 cc engine with four strikes and noise level of 51dBA
  • It has a single hade AC voltage
  • 60 Hz frequency and 40-pound weight.
  • One 12V DC outlet, 2 AC outlets, and two 5V USB outlets.
  • There is an eco-mode switch
  • 2 Year Warranty

WEN 56203i Features & Controls

Wave ECO-Mode: Fuel economy by engaging the Eco-Mode, allowing the generator’s motor to automatically adjust its fuel consumption to extend run time and engine life.

Ultra Quiet: If more than 2000 watts is necessary, link two inverter generators together with the WEN 56421 Parallel Connection Kit to combine output between multiple units.

Fuel Type & Capacity

This generator runs on Gasoline, a readily accessible and affordable fuel. The one gallop fuel tank is enough to last you your camping trip or several days of home usage. However, WEN also included an eco switch to help save up on fuel consumption. 

When you use that switch, you’ll be putting the generator in an eco mode, which means that it will adjust its fuel consumption rate to give it more running time. This mode also helps prolong the lifespan of the engine.

Functionality

This generator meets all the indicated functionality capabilities and is also one is the smallest generators you can find in the market currently. The lightweight nature of the wen-56203i generator isn’t the only thing making it portable

 

It’s designed also makes it easy to carry around, making it perfect for outdoor use like camping. The company put a handle at the top of the generative, making it easier to lift.

The small structure also doesn’t affect other functionalities. Every feature has been properly placed to make it easier for you to control the generator.

 

The generator also has parallel connectivity plugs that you can use to enhance its performance. With the plugs, you can connect another generator to it to get double the power.

Just make sure the second generator is another WEN-56203i generator to avoid compatibility complications. With this feature, you can either get additional running time or plugin heavier appliances, but for a short time.

Usability

The generator comes with a control panel on the exterior. This panel has a great display with easily accessible labels. You can issue commands to the generator quickly with the aid of the precisely labels command structures. 

 

Not only that, but the generator also comes with several outlets that are also correctly labeled and indicated to make it easier for you to plug in your devices. 

 

Using this generator is easy, even if you have never used a generator before. Just follow the voltage capacities indicated on those outlets when plugging in your devices. The multiple outlets also ensure that your appliances that need constant power are taken care of when there’s a blackout. 

 

There are also additional outlets for your RV and a 120V AC twist plug for larger appliances. This shows that the company thought about several cases that the generator could be used for.

controls wen 56203i

PRO

  • It is perfect for different types of use.
  • It is easy to set up and use
  • Starts easy
  • Quiet Function
  • Economy mode
  • Portable and Lightweight
  • The generator has a low noise level
  • It is easy to carry around


Cons

  • It doesn’t work as it should in high altitudes. High altitude kit available separately.
  • Fairly average run time

How Quiet is the Wen 56203i Portable Generator?

Noise is one of the main reasons why most people shy away from generators. The noise is a major inconveniencing factor with many generators, but the WEN-56203i generator takes care of that. 

 

While other generators have a noise range of between 70 to 80 decibels, the 56203i WEN product only has 51 decibels. In other words, while those other generators are as pound as a vacuum cleaner, the wen-56203i generator is as loud as a quiet car being driven at a slow speed. 

 

This makes this generator perfect for use in camping sites shared by other people as well as at home. You won’t be disturbed by the noise. It may not be the quietest generator available, but its noise level is pretty impressive. 

 

When combined with other features and performance capability, you get a product that’s worth your hard-earned money.

Portable and Lightweight

The Wen Generator is made especially for use away from home. Its sleek design makes it easy to pack, carry, and stow.

At just 39 pounds, it can be stored in a backpack or brought along by itself. A handle is molded to the case. This ensures that it is out of the way, yet available when you need it (moving it from the car to a campsite, for example

Versitility

This generator also can convert DC to AC current thanks to its inverter. The ability of the generator to change between higher and lower currents makes it perfect for sensitive appliances.

You don’t have to worry about your sensitive devices being exposed to high voltages that could damage them.

Invaluable in an Emergency

In an emergency, a flashlight is the bare minimum. In the case of a storm or power outage, this generator will not only allow you to turn the lights back on but even power up the space heater to get warm.

You can also plug in your microwave. A generator will not only provide the bare minimum amenities, it will even allow you some luxury until power is restored in your home.

Having a generator in a disaster is a comforting factor and can help you stay calm and safe.

Camping

This generator can run 5-7 hours on half load. So, you can use it for a long as you have fuel. Bring some gasoline along with the generator and rev it up at your campsite.

With this generator, you can charge your devices, light the area up a night, play music, and even use the microwave. A generator will allow you to bring the comfort of indoor electricity to the beauty of nature.

The quiet function of the Wen 56203i makes it ideal for use on campsites.

Maintenance and Warranty

Like every portable power generator, this WEN generator has to maintained occasionally, but the process isn’t very complicated. The company has outlined some maintenance procedures on the manual of the generator. 

 

However, you still need to take care of it to prolonged usage without maintenance. You have to keep in under correct conditions and clean it regularly. You should also ensure that any moving parts are adequately oiled, and the fuel is kept at the recommended level.

 

The fact that this is a product of a reputable company means it is of high quality. Apart from that, WEN offers a 90-day warranty if you buy the generator for commercial use.

 

If you intend to use it at home, then you get a 500 hour or two-year warranty. Also, you have one month from the day you buy the generator to report any damages or missing parts on it.

All these are meant to ensure you get value for your money and also to make maintenance easier.

controls wen 56203i

Compared to other portable generators

WEN-56203i generator is an excellent product with features that set it apart from some of the most sought-after generators, including one from the same company. 

Many of the features on the Wen 56203i you would expect to see on a generator costing twice as much. See the comparison table at the start of this review to see how much you get for your money.

Below are some of the critical factors you should consider when buying a generator. These are the features that set the WEN-56203i generator apart from others.

 

Power

 

Although this generator has the same running power as others such as WEN-56200i, it is capable of producing 100 watts more.

However, there are also others like Honda EU2200i that are capable of producing 200 watts more, but for the price, the wen-56203i generator is still pretty good.

 

Noise Levels

 

The noise rate of this generator is on the same level as WEN-56200i, but it is lower than that of the Honda EU2200i. Even though Honda has indicated the generator’s noise level ad ranging between 48 and 58 decibels, it does sound noisier when being used.

 

Outlets

 

As indicated above, the WEN-56203i generator has several outlets that allow plugging in of different types of appliances and devices.

This is the main factor that differentiates it from its competitors. For instance, both Honda EU2200i and WEN-56200i come with two outlets that limit you in terms of use.

 

All these show that the wen-56203i generator is an excellent choice for those wanting generators. It is a generator that has received a lot of praise from buyers if the reviews from Amazon which you can read here are anything to go by.

This product shows that it is possible to find a great and fully functional product without spending a fortune. Most generators with similar features usually go for over $1000, but this one goes for half that price.


Check Out Prices On Amazon Here

Final Thoughts: Wen 56203i Generator Review

When looking for a generator, you must consider what other customers are saying. WEN 56203i generator has received a lot of good reviews and very few bad ones, which shows its greatness. 

 

It is a product worth having but only for small capacity use. It cannot handle industrial or commercial use but will deliver whet used at home. Remember to check the manual and follow the instructions listed there. 

 

If you’re looking for a generator on a budget, then this is your best choice. In case of any problems, you can contact the customer service team, and you’ll be assisted promptly. 

 

You can also have a fast delivery if you buy it from Amazon. Remember to check the warranty and return policy when purchasing for additional protection.

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All the article on Oofgrid offer help and practical advice for using and purchasing a portable generator. However, We are enthusiasts and not qualified electricians. Always seek professional advice when working with electrical or Petrol appliances.