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Description
Zoom on the WEN 56203i
In summary, the WEN 56203i is a quiet, compact and lightweight portable inverter generator especially useful for:
- 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, the extra features it benefits from, and any relevant emission compliance details.
Power & Run Time
The WEN 56203i
The WEN 56203i's core is the 79 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, which runs on gasoline. With an output of 120V, it provides a running wattage of 1700W and a peak wattage of 2000W. Moreover, since it is parallel capable (WEN Parallel Connection Kit (opens in a new tab) not included), its power may be doubled if linked to a second compatible unit.
Enjoying a low noise rating of 51 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a refrigerator) which earned this unit its place in our list of the 10 quietest portable generators, it gets running thanks to a conventional pull-start mechanism.
The fuel capacity of 1 gallon allows the 56203i to operate for up to 10.8 hours with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.09 GPH).
The 56203i produces a clean sine wave: thanks to a <1.2% Total Harmonic Disruption (THD), your sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets.
Outlets
The control panel features the following 2 AC outlets:
In addition, it provides 3 DC outlets: there's a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle with which charging your batteries is made easy and two 5V USB ports with which charging of electronics like mobile phones and tablets is made convenient.
Portability
Since the WEN 56203i is an inverter generator, its closed design (L17.3 x W11.5 x H17.7 in) has an esthetical advantage over conventional, open frame devices. This modern design aims to provide an ideal power solution to recreational users.
The 56203i is a lightweight, portable generator, as it only weighs 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. Its handle (molded in the case) allows you to carry it easily, further enhancing its convenience.
Features
The 56203i's control panel
Several light indicators serve to show you when the oil level is too low, the generator is ready and the generator is overloaded.
The fuel level of the inverter generator can be determined quickly, easily, and conveniently with the help of its built-in fuel gauge.
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 of the carburetor, minimizing maintenance while prolonging the unit’s lifespan.
From a security point of view, the generator is equipped with an automatic low oil shut-off, a low fuel automatic shutdown and an overload protection (circuit breaker), giving you a peace of mind during use.
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: tool kit and funnel are included.
Emissions
The WEN 56203i is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. Thus, selling and purchasing this generator is allowed in each of the 50 states, including California.
Moreover, it features a spark arrestor, making it usable in forested areas.
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 generators of similar power (between 1500 and 2500 W).
- In terms of its dry weight, the WEN 56203i stands at only 39 lbs, meaning that is one of the lighter devices of the 1500-2500 rated wattage category Regarding dry weight, one of the champions in the same power range is the Champion 200949, with a dry weight of only 38.6 lbs.
- With a lowest noise rating of 51 dBA, the inverter generator is one of the more quiet of the generators of similar 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.
- The 56203i, offering a run time of up to 10.8 hours with a full tank at a 25% load, falls within the average autonomy range when compared to its peers. If you consider autonomy on a single full tank as one of the deciding factors, one of the generators in the same power range that offers the highest run time is the Westinghouse WGen2000, with up to 26 hours.
- The run time is important, but also hugely depends on the capacity of the fuel tank and doesn't mean much if we don't talk about fuel consumption as well. At an estimated fuel consumption of 0.09 GPH (gallon per hour) at 25% load, this inverter generator is a rather fuel efficient one within its wattage category. If you wish to acquire one of the most gasoline efficient products of this power range, the Predator 2000, with a fuel consumption of 0.08 GPH could be in your good books.
Here's a list of the most popular specific comparisons:
Price comparison
As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 1500-2500W generators, the WEN 56203i 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
- Several accessories included
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- Lightweight (39 lbs)
- Quiet for its power (51 dBA)
- Fuel efficient
- Decent run time
- No data center
- No electric start
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Portable | Yes |
| Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 79 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 1700 W |
| Starting watts | 2000 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% |
| Emissions | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil, overload and low fuel protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Accessories included | Funnel and tool kit |
| Warranty | 2 years |
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 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 | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
| Set of 5 LED light bulbs | 55 | 55 | |
| Total | 1355 W | 1355 W | |
| For work | Demolition hammer | 1260 | 1260 |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 1340 W | 1340 W |
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
