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Description
Zoom on the WEN 56235i
In summary, the WEN 56235i is a quiet, compact and lightweight portable inverter generator especially useful for:
- Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source
- Amateur DIY lovers
In the following paragraphs, we shall explore the power characteristics, available outlets, portability, and any additional features of the device, along with its emission compliance information.
Power & Run Time
The WEN 56235i
The WEN 56235i's engine, 79 cc OHV 4-stroke, fueled by gasoline, can deliver 120V. It provides a running wattage of 1,900W and reaches a peak wattage of 2,350W. 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.
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 simple traditional pull-start mechanism.
With a full tank, the 56235i can operate for up to 10.5 hours (fuel consumption around 0.1 GPH), thanks to its fuel capacity of 1.1 gallon.
Sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets, as the 56235i produces a clean sine wave, with a <1.2% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).
Outlets
The control panel includes the following 2 AC outlets:
It also sports 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 allowing you to conveniently charge electronics such as mobile phones and tablets.
Portability
As the WEN 56235i is an inverter generator, its encased design (L17.3 x W11.5 x H17.7 in) offers more aesthetics than a conventional, open frame product. The design follows the contemporary trends and is perfect for recreationally generating power.
Labeled a lightweight portable generator, the 56235i weighs just 39 lbs. The generator can be moved with ease by only one person and so it can be enjoyed on-the-go. Its handle (molded in the case) allows you to carry it easily, further enhancing its convenience.
Features
The 56235i's control panel
Several light indicators serve to show you when the generator is ready, its oil levels are insufficient and the generator is on overload.
The fuel shutoff feature turns off the flow of fuel, allowing for the 56235i 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 a low fuel automatic shutdown, an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), which gives you a complete peace of mind when using it.
While the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), helpful for starting the device promptly, come with the WEN 56235i, the following accessories are also included: funnel and tool kit. An official storage cover is also available, as a separate purchase.
Emissions
The WEN 56235i is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. Therefore, its sale and purchase are permitted in all of the 50 states, including California.
Moreover, it features a spark arrestor and therefore, can be used in forested areas.
Product Videos
The WEN 56235i versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the WEN 56235i compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 1500 and 2500 W).
- Regarding its weight, the WEN 56235i only weighs in at 39 pounds, which means it's one of the lighter inverter generators in the 1500-2500 rated wattage range. If weight is your top priority, one of the champions in this power category is the Genmax GM2000i, 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.
- Offering up to 10.5 hours of running time on a full tank at 25% load, the 56235i is within the average autonomy range of similarly powerful inverter generators. 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.
- Run times are important, yet thanks to their dependence on the fuel capacity, they should be judged along with the fuel consumption of the device. This inverter generator is one of the more fuel efficient models of the aforementioned output range, as its estimated fuel consumption reaches just 0.1 GPH (gallon per hour) at 25% load. If fuel consumption is your top priority, we suggest to check out the DuroMax XP2300iH, which has a fuel consumption of only 0.08 GPH and thus, is one of the most efficient devices in our database.
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 inverter generators, the WEN 56235i 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 |
|---|---|
| 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 | 1,900 W |
| Starting watts | 2,350 W |
| Running amps | 15.8 amps |
| Peak amps | 19.6 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 7 h |
| Run time @25% load | 10.5 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 | 1.1 gal |
| Fuel gauge | No |
| 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 |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Funnel and tool kit |
| Country of origin | China |
| UPC | 044459562351 |
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 56235i 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 | Microwave (1000 watts) | 1500 | 1500 |
| Total | 1500 W | 1500 W | |
| For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Slow cooker | 270 | 270 | |
| Set of 5 LED light bulbs | 55 | 55 | |
| Total | 1515 W | 2105 W | |
| For work | Demolition hammer | 1260 | 1260 |
| Drain cleaner | 250 | 250 | |
| Total | 1510 W | 1510 W |
What type of air filter does it need (Asked August 06, 2021)
The air filter part number is 56202i-163.
Can I run a 2 inch electric water pump with this unit continuously? (Asked August 24, 2021)
It is unfortunately not feasible to answer this question without more specifics. "2 inch" is not indicative of the power that is needed. We recommend reading our guide on how to calculate the running and starting watts of your appliances.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
Bought this wind generator from amazon followed breaking instructio Started the generator plug it in to my camper camper has residential fridge running has the inverter. Running then turn the fan on and then turn AC and the generator continued to run powering my complete trailer. Haven’t used it much but very happy when it’s so far.
This is a value machine, light and nimble not a Honda. Don’t expect a Honda, that one is $ 600.00 more……
Break it in, take care of it and it will work just fine…
They ship fast, customer service answered all my questions prior to purchase. Will buy again…
My advise would be to buy another Honda if your 15 year old one is still running great……Good Luck CJ
Fantastic generator. Started on second pull. Break in on generator performed over 6 hours last weekend. No problem running the 1500 watt heater. Turning heater off, I ran full size kitchen refrigerator/freezer, plus separate standalone freezer, plus computer equipment — 2 screens and laptop with docking station all at same time. Crabjoe’s review is questionable. Look at all the favorable Amazon reviews in comparison.
I bought one thinking it could easily handle a 1500w load (small heater). It won’t. Every time I turn it on, the overload light comes on. Sometimes it clears and other times it trips the genny and I have to reset it. The generator, at least the one the shipped me, might be rated for 1900 watts continuous, but in reality, it can barely handle 1500 watts.
BTW, I checked the same load on my 15yo Honda EU2000 generator. The old Honda handles the load like nothing, since it’s rated at 1600 watts continuous.
My advise is to not buy the WEN 56235i. It will out output what it’s rated at. Look at the engine size, it’s a 79cc Yamaha clone by the Chinese.. Even Yamaha doesn’t use such a small engine for this kind of output.