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 a few words, the WEN 56203i is a quiet, compact and lightweight portable inverter generator perfectly suited for:
- Camping and tailgating buffs looking to enhance their experience
- Handcrafting enthusiasts who wish to work on-the-go
Over the following sections, you'll uncover its power characteristics, the selection of outlets it offers, its overall portability, and the supplementary features it includes.
Power & Run Time
Running on gasoline, the WEN 56203i operates with a 79 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, delivering 120V, with a running wattage of 1,700W and a peak wattage of 2,000W. Moreover, the parallel capability (WEN Parallel Connection 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.
The inverter generator boasts with a low noise rating of 51 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a quiet suburb) which earned its spot in our 10 quietest portable generators. Its starting mechanism is based on a manual recoil starter system.
Equipped with a 1 gallon fuel tank, the 56203i ensures continuous operation for up to 10.8 hours with a full tank (fuel usage approximately 0.09 gallons per hour).
Sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets, as the 56203i produces a clean sine wave, with a <1.2% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).
Outlets
The control panel includes the following 2 AC outlets:
Furthermore, it showcases 3 DC outlets: there's a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle making battery charging a breeze and two 5V USB ports ensuring convenient charging of devices like mobile phones and tablets, for connectivity on the go.
Portability
With an inverter generator design, the WEN 56203i features a closed construction (L17.3 x W11.5 x H17.7 in), enhancing aesthetics and ensuring reduced noise levels, offering a distinct advantage over standard, open frame generators. The generator has a contemporary design, convenient for recreationally generating power.
The 56203i's weight, at just 39 lbs, makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a lightweight and portable generator. As it can be moved by a single person without much effort, the generator and its power can be enjoyed on-the-go. It can also be carried without effort with a featured handle (molded in the case), further improving its convenience.
Features
The device's light indicators will illuminate to indicate if the generator is overloaded, its oil levels are insufficient and the generator is ready.
Benefiting from its built-in fuel gauge, the inverter generator allows for easy and immediate gas level inspections.
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.
Security-wise, this product benefits from an overload protection (circuit breaker), a low fuel automatic shutdown and an automatic low oil shut-off, which gives you a complete peace of mind when using it.
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.
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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).
- Concerning weight, the WEN 56203i weighs only just 39 pounds, distinguishing itself as one of the lighter inverter generators amidst the 1500 to 2500 rated wattage range. If you are mindful of weight, the Genmax GM2000i is among the top contenders in this power range, with a dry weight of 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 noise emissions are important to you, one of the least noisy generators of this power range is the Honda EU2200i with only 48 dBA.
- Compared to inverters of similar power, the 56203i stands out with one of the higher run times, lasting up to 10.8 hours at 25% load. If autonomy is your priority, one of the devices of a similar power output with the highest run time is the DuroMax XP2300iH, reaching up to 13 hours.
- While run time matters, it's heavily influenced by the fuel tank's capacity. Hence, it's important to consider fuel efficiency alongside. This inverter generator provides better fuel efficiency than most others in its wattage range, consuming approximately 0.09 GPH (gallon per hour) at 25% load. If you are concerned with gasoline efficiency, having a fuel consumption of just 0.08 GPH, the DuroMax XP2300iH is a device you could look out for.
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
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 | 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 |
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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