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Since: September 1, 2022 |
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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 sections ahead, the power characteristics, availability of various outlets, the portability, and any additional features of the device shall be discussed, including its emission compliance information.
Power & Run Time
The WEN 56235i
The WEN 56235i is powered by a 79 cc OHV 4-stroke engine. It delivers 120V, runs on gasoline and offers a running wattage of 1,900W as well as a peak wattage of 2,350W. In addition, as it is parallel capable (WEN Parallel Connection Kit (opens in a new tab) not included), this power can be doubled when linked to another similar or compatible unit.
The inverter generator features a conventional pull-start mechanism. It is rated for a low noise of 51 dBA (just slightly more noisy than rainfall), which places it in our list of the 10 quietest portable generators.
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.
The 56235i produces a clean sine wave: thanks to a <1.2% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), your sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets.
Outlets
The control panel features the upcoming 2 AC outlets:
In addition, it provides 3 DC outlets: there's a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle allowing you to easily charge your batteries and two 5V USB ports with which charging of electronics like mobile phones and tablets is made convenient.
Portability
The WEN 56235i is an inverter generator and has an encased design of the following dimensions: L17.3 x W11.5 x H17.7 in. Thus, it is more aesthetical than conventional, open frame products. This type of design is the most modern and convenient way to recreationally generate power.
The 56235i 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 56235i's control panel
When the generator is ready, the oil level is too low and the generator is on overload, you will be informed by the featured light indicators.
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.
As for its security measures, the device features an overload protection (circuit breaker), a low fuel automatic shutdown and an automatic low oil shut-off, letting you use it with a peace of mind.
Apart from the typical documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), which lets you start it right away, the WEN 56235i also is packed along with the following accessories: tool kit and funnel. 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, so it is adequate for use in forested areas.
Product Video
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 matters to you, one of the champions in this power range is the Genmax GM2000i with only 34.2 pounds.
- 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 emissions are important to you, one of the least noisy generators of this power range is the Honda EU2200i with only 48 dBA.
- The 56235i, falls within the average autonomy range compared to inverter generators of a roughly same power, with a run time of up to 10.5 hours at a 25% load and a full tank. Furthermore, considering the run times, one of the generators which have a roughly same power output, with the highest autonomy, is the DuroMax XP2300iH, as it provides 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 can be considered as fuel efficient, due to its low estimated fuel consumption of only 0.1 GPH (gallon per hour) at 25% load, within the aforementioned wattage range. If not satisfied with the afore-mentioned fuel consumption, you may wish to check out the DuroMax XP2300iH. With a fuel consumption of as little as 0.08 GPH, it is one of the most efficient generators currently on the market.
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 |
|---|---|
| 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 | 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 |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| 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 | Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 |
| Vacuum cleaner | 1075 | 1175 | |
| Set of 5 LED light bulbs | 55 | 55 | |
| Cell phone charger | 20 | 20 | |
| Total | 1342 W | 2342 W | |
| For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Cell phone charger | 20 | 20 | |
| Total | 1500 W | 1920 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
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.