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
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 buffs looking to enhance their experience
- DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools
The subsequent sections will explore in detail its power characteristics, the diverse outlets it provides, its overall portability, and the supplementary features it offers.
Power & Run Time
Featuring a 79 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, the WEN 56203i operates using gasoline, providing 120V, with a running wattage of 1,700W and 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.
Presented in our list of the 10 quietest portable generators for its low noise rating of 51 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a refrigerator), the inverter generator features a classic hand-operated recoil starting mechanism.
Featuring a 1 gallon fuel tank, the 56203i can provide power for up to 10.8 hours on a full tank (with fuel consumption averaging 0.09 gallons per hour).
The 56203i generates a clean sine wave: providing <1.2% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), delicate electronics can be plugged in its AC outlets safely.
Outlets
The control panel includes the following 2 AC outlets:
Additionally, it offers 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 perfect for conveniently charging mobile phones, tablets, and other electronic devices.
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. This type of design is the most modern and convenient way to recreationally generate power.
With a weight of only 39 lbs, the 56203i is deisgned to be a lightweight and easily portable generator. The generator can be moved with ease by only one person and so it can be enjoyed on-the-go. This convenience is further enhanced by its handle (molded in the case), which allows for easy carrying.
Features
The generator's light indicators provide visual feedback when its oil levels are insufficient, the generator is on overload and the generator is ready.
The inverter generator includes a built-in fuel gauge, a quick, easy and convenient method of checking the device’s gas level.
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 for its security measures, the device features a low fuel automatic shutdown, an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, letting you use it with a peace of mind.
While the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), helpful for starting the device promptly, come with the WEN 56203i, the following accessories are also included: funnel and tool kit. 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).
- Weight-wise, the WEN 56203i has only 39 lbs, which renders it one of the lighter inverter generators which produce 1500 to 2500 rated watts. Regarding dry weight, one of the champions in the same power range is the Genmax GM2000i, with a dry weight of only 34.2 lbs.
- Since this inverter generator is rated for a lowest possible noise of 51 dBA, it can be considered as one of the more quiet of the products generating similar power. If noise level is one your key decisive factors, you may find the Honda EU2200i appealing. It's rated at 48 dBA, making it one of the quietest generators in its power range.
- Among its inverters with similar power, the 56203i offers one of the higher run times, running for up to 10.8 hours at 25% load. 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 DuroMax XP2300iH, with up to 13 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. This inverter generator is one of the more fuel-efficient options in its power range, consuming approximately 0.09 GPH (gallon per hour) at 25% load. If you wish to acquire one of the most gasoline efficient products of this power range, the Westinghouse iGen2800c, with a fuel consumption of 0.08 GPH could be in your good books.
Here's a list of the most popular specific comparisons:
The bottom line
- Several accessories included
- 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 | CARB, EPA |
Security | Low oil, overload and low fuel protection |
Spark arrestor | Yes |
Accessories included | Funnel and tool kit |
UPC | 044459562047 |
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 |
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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