The WEN 56200i is a quiet, compact and lightweight inverter generator with a rated wattage of 1,600 W and a starting wattage of 2,000 W. (Read full specs)
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Northern Tool | Price history for the WEN 56200i |
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| Highest Price $589.99 Lowest Price $244.00 Current Price $490.59 |
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Description
Zoom on the WEN 56200i
In a nutshell, the WEN 56200i is a quiet, compact and lightweight portable inverter generator mostly geared towards:
- Camping and tailgating buffs looking to enhance their experience
- DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools
The following sections will present you in detail its power characteristics, the different outlets it offers, its overall portability, and the extra features it benefits from.
Power & Run Time
The WEN 56200i
Running on gasoline, the WEN 56200i operates with a 79.7 cc WEN OHV 4-stroke engine, delivering 120V, with a running wattage of 1,600W and a peak wattage of 2,000W. Moreover, the parallel capability (WEN 56421 Parallel kit (opens in a new tab) not included) enables power output to double when paired with another similar or compatible unit, providing increased energy capacity and versatility for a wide range of needs.
With a noise rating of 50 dBA (just as noisy as a conversation at home), the inverter generator's starting mechanism is centered around a manual recoil starter system.
The 56200i's fuel tank holds 1 gallon, ensuring uninterrupted operation for up to 9.4 hours with a full tank (fuel consumption approximately 0.11 GPH).
With a <1.2% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), the 56200i delivers a clean sine wave—essential for safeguarding your delicate electronics when plugged into its AC outlets.
Outlets
The control panel includes the following 2 AC outlets:
It also sports 2 DC outlets: there's a 12V 8A receptacle enabling simple battery charging for added ease and a 5V USB port designed for hassle-free charging of various electronic devices such as smartphones and tablets, ensuring uninterrupted usage.
Portability
Thanks to its closed inverter generator design (L18 x W11 x H18 in), the WEN 56200i not only offers superior aesthetics but also operates with reduced noise levels compared to a typical, open frame generator. The design follows the contemporary trends and is perfect for recreationally generating power.
With its weight totaling only 50 lbs, the 56200i stands out as a lightweight generator. With its manageable weight, one person can easily move it around, ensuring power wherever needed. This convenience is further enhanced by its handle (molded in the case), which allows for easy carrying.
Features
The 56200i's control panel
The light indicators show you if the generator is ready, the oil level is too low and the generator is on overload.
With its built-in fuel gauge, the inverter generator provides quick and convenient gas level checks.
From a security point of view, the generator is equipped with an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), giving you a peace of mind during use.
Besides the features previously mentioned, accessory-wise, the WEN 56200i comes with the usual documentation and owner's manual (opens in a new tab) needed to get you promptly started.
Product Video
The WEN 56200i versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the WEN 56200i compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 1500 and 2500 W).
- At 50 lbs dry, the WEN 56200i is consistent with the standard weight profile for inverters ranging from 1500 to 2500 rated watts. Weight-conscious users may find the Genmax GM2000i appealing, as it is one of the top contenders in this power range, weighing just 34.2 pounds.
- At just 50 dBA rated noise level, this inverter generator is positioned as one of the quieter choices among devices delivering similar type and power. If you’d prefer a less noisy device, one of the most quiet devices, which share the same power range with this one, is the Honda EU2200i, whose lowest noise levels reach just 48 dBA.
- With a runtime of up to 9.4 hours under a 25% load on a full tank, the 56200i falls within the average autonomy range among the inverter generators of a similar power. Furthermore, considering the run times, one of the generators which have a roughly same power output, with the highest autonomy, is the DuroMax XP2300iH, as it provides up to 13 hours.
- Autonomy holds its importance, however, it is largely dependent on the generator’s fuel capacity and so, it is nonsensible to discuss it without mentioning fuel efficiency as well. When operating at 25% load, the inverter generator's fuel consumption is estimated at 0.11 GPH, placing it within the average range of gasoline usage among similarly powerful devices. If you are concerned with gasoline efficiency, having a fuel consumption of just 0.08 GPH, the Westinghouse iGen2800c is a device you could look out for.
Here's a list of the most popular specific comparisons:
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 1500-2500W inverter generators, the WEN 56200i is on the cheap side of the price range.
It can therefore be a really good buy if you're looking to acquire a budget generator.
The bottom line
- Inexpensive
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- Quiet for its power (50 dBA)
- Decent weight (50 lbs)
- Decent run time
- Decent fuel efficiency
- No data center
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 79.7 cc WEN OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 1,600 W |
| Starting watts | 2,000 W |
| Running amps | 13.3 amps |
| Peak amps | 16.7 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 6 h |
| Run time @25% load | 9.4 h |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets | 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) |
| DC outlets | 1x 12V 8A 1x 5V USB port |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
| Fuel tank | 1 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 50 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 18 x 11 x 18 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 50 dBA |
| THD | < 1.2% |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | No |
| UPC | 044459562009 |
Unlike many websites, we did our best to research each of the specs above. That being said, we are not immune to making the occasional mistake or omission. Should you notice any missing or incorrect values, don't hesitate to suggest improvements so we can address the issue.
About WEN
WEN Products, founded by Nick Anton in 1951, is an American power tool manufacturer and distributor, which claims to have a part in the development of modern chainsaw, soldering devices and wet sharpeners, through its research in random orbital technology. The Illinois based company expanded its distribution network to include various power tools, such as presses, drills and of course, power generators. As a distributor, WEN’s portfolio largely consists of branded products of different manufacturers, imported from Asia.
Warranty Information
The WEN 56200i is covered under a warranty for up to 2 years. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of WEN generators, please consult WEN's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-847-429-9263.
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 |
| Toaster oven | 800 | 800 | |
| Total | 992 W | 1992 W | |
| For camping | RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 |
| RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 1270 W | 1860 W | |
| For work | Demolition hammer | 1260 | 1260 |
| Total | 1260 W | 1260 W |
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
I have the older version of this model. It has served me well and I plug a 30amp adapter into the regular socket. In my Class C RV I can run my portable 14,000btu A/C unit, my gaming desktop computer, refrigerator, run a fan and keep other items such as phone and laptop charged and all this on the ECO mode setting (I have not tried it with the electric hot water heater which I think it wouldn’t be able to handle). I get better than the above specs. I get about 3.5 hours per 1/4 gallon of gas (the unit takes one gallon). If not using the upfront A/C I get about 5+ hours per 1/4 gallon of gas so about 20 hours of use per gallon. You need to be sure that when you are done using it for the season; you maybe have 1/4 gallon of gas and a few ounces of Stabile and run it till it stops and next season it will start fine. If you leave gas in it even with Stablile it will still gum up and is a pain in the ass to get it working again if you are a novice like me working on motors. Otherwise it is a great back up for my Class C RV in emergencies and right now have about 150-200 hours on it and use 10w-30 synthetic in it. Be sure to break it in 2-3 times the recommended amount using SAE30.