WEN 56203i - 1700/2000W Inverter Generator
The WEN 56203i is a quiet, compact and lightweight inverter generator with a rated wattage of 1,700 W and a starting wattage of 2,000 W. (Read full specs)
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Description
Remember when you had clean and quiet portable power? The WEN 2,000-Watt Inverter Generator provides clean energy, free of voltage spikes and drops, without all the noise of a regular generator. Produce up to 2000 surge watts and 1700 rated watts of power. Our 78cc 4-stroke OHV engine operates at an extremely quiet 51 decibels at quarter load, quieter than a window air conditioner or the average conversation. This limits its invasiveness while camping, hunting, tailgating, and restoring backup power.
Zoom on the WEN 56203i
In short, the WEN 56203i is a quiet, compact and lightweight portable inverter generator adequately designed for:
- Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source
- DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools
In the following paragraphs, we shall explore the power characteristics, available outlets, portability, and any additional features of the device.
Power & Run Time
The WEN 56203i
WEN 56203i is equipped with a 79 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, running on gasoline and providing 120V, boasting a running wattage of 1,700W alongside a starting wattage of 2,000W. In addition, the parallel capability (WEN Parallel Connection Kit (opens in a new tab) not included) empowers doubling of power output when linked to another similar or compatible unit, ensuring expanded energy capacity and reliability for various applications.
Enjoying a really low noise rating of 51 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a refrigerator) which secured it a place in our list of the 10 quietest portable generators, the inverter generator is started via a manual recoil starter system.
The 56203i's fuel tank holds 1 gallon, ensuring uninterrupted operation for up to 10.8 hours with a full tank (fuel consumption approximately 0.09 GPH).
Featuring a <1.2% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), the 56203i delivers a clean sine wave, guaranteeing the safety of your sensitive electronics plugged into its AC outlets.
Outlets
The control panel features the upcoming 2 AC outlets:
Moreover, it presents 3 DC outlets: there's a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle with which you may charge your batteries with ease and two 5V USB ports with which charging of electronics like mobile phones and tablets is made convenient.
Portability
Thanks to its closed inverter generator design (L17.3 x W11.5 x H17.7 in), the WEN 56203i not only offers superior aesthetics but also operates with reduced noise levels compared to a typical, open frame generator. The generator has a contemporary design, convenient for recreationally generating power.
Considered a lightweight portable generator, the 56203i weighs just 39 lbs. As it can be moved by a single person without much effort, the generator and its power can be enjoyed on-the-go. With its handle (molded in the case), carrying it becomes a breeze, adding to its convenience.
Features
The 56203i's control panel
The generator's light indicators provide visual feedback when the oil level is too low, the generator is on overload and the generator is ready.
With its built-in fuel gauge, the inverter generator provides quick and convenient gas level checks.
The fuel shutoff feature turns off the flow of fuel, allowing for the 56203i to use up the remaining fuel from the carburetor before automatically shutting down. This helps fight the build-up and blockages caused by stagnant fuel inside the carburetor, minimizing maintenance while prolonging the unit’s lifespan.
As far as security is concerned, the generator can be used with a peace of mind, as it features an automatic low oil shut-off, an overload protection (circuit breaker) and a low fuel automatic shutdown.
Besides the classic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to get you promptly started, the WEN 56203i also comes with some accessories: funnel and tool kit are included. An official storage cover is also available, as a separate purchase.
Product Videos
The WEN 56203i versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the WEN 56203i compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 1500 and 2500 W).
- Considering its weight, the WEN 56203i registers at a modest 39 pounds, placing it among the lighter inverter generators in the 1500 to 2500 rated wattage selection. 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.
- With a lowest noise rating of 51 dBA, the inverter generator is one of the more quiet of the generators of similar type and power. If you are concerned with noise, check out the Honda EU2200i, which is one of the least noisy generators in its power range, with a noise rating of just 48 dBA.
- Thanks to an impressive running time of up to 10.8 hours at 25% load, the 56203i benefits from a higher run time than many inverter generators of a similar output. If extended autonomy is what matters most to you, the DuroMax XP2300iH could be an excellent choice, offering one of the longest run times among units in its power category, reaching up to 13 hours.
- Run time is crucial, but it heavily relies on the fuel tank's capacity. Thus, considering fuel efficiency alongside is essential. With a fuel consumption rate around 0.09 GPH (gallon per hour) at 25% load, this inverter generator is one of the more fuel-efficient models within the aforementioned wattage range. To prioritize fuel savings, we advise considering the Westinghouse iGen2800c, which stands out for its gasoline efficiency, consuming just 0.08 gallons per hour.
Here's a list of the most popular specific comparisons:
The bottom line
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- Lightweight (39 lbs)
- Quiet for its power (51 dBA)
- High run time
- Fuel efficient
- No data center
Do you own the WEN 56203i and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?
Let us know and write your own review.
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 79 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 1,700 W |
| Starting watts | 2,000 W |
| Running amps | 14.2 amps |
| Peak amps | 16.7 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 7 h |
| Run time @25% load | 10.8 h |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets | 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) |
| DC outlets | 1x 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) 2x 5V USB port |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
| Fuel tank | 1 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 39 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 17.3 x 11.5 x 17.7 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 51 dBA |
| THD | < 1.2% |
| Compliance | EPA |
| Security | Low oil, overload and low fuel protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Accessories included | Funnel and tool kit |
| UPC | 044459562047 |
We've taken extra care to research and verify each of the specifications above. That said, occasional mistakes or omissions are still possible. If you spot any missing or inaccurate information, feel free to suggest a correction so we can address it.
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 56203i 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 AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| LED TV | 150 | 150 | |
| Total | 1340 W | 1930 W | |
| For work | Demolition hammer | 1260 | 1260 |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 1340 W | 1340 W |
What oil is recommended? (Asked September 02, 2022)
Between 0°F and 40 °F, SAE 10W-30 is recommended. Over 40°F, SAE 30W should be used. Alternatively, for general, all-temperature use, you can use synthetic SAE 5W-30.
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