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Description
Zoom on the WEN 56380i
In a nutshell, the WEN 56380i is a quiet and compact portable inverter generator mostly geared towards:
- RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level
- DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools
- Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
- Camping and tailgating buffs looking to enhance their experience
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 56380i's core is the 212 cc WEN OHV 4-stroke engine, which runs on gasoline. With an output of 120V, it provides a running wattage of 3400W and a peak wattage of 3800W. In addition, as it is parallel capable (WEN 56421 Parallel kit not included), this power can be doubled when linked to another similar or compatible unit.
The inverter generator features a simple traditional pull-start mechanism and also a convenient and easy-to-use electric starter (battery included). It is rated for a noise of 57 dBA (less noisy than rainfall).
With a full tank, the 56380i can operate for around 8.5 hours at 50% load (fuel consumption around 0.26 GPH), thanks to its fuel capacity of 2.2 gallons.
Delicate electronics can be plugged in an AC outlets safely, as the 56380i generates a clean sine wave, reaching a <1.2% Total Harmonic Disruption (THD).
- For camping/tailgating: 1 toaster oven, 1 rice cooker, 1 coffee maker, 1 blender and 1 bug zapper
- At home: 1 toaster oven, 1 waffle iron, 1 rice cooker, 1 slow cooker, 1 set of 5 LED light bulbs and 1 cell phone charger
- For work: 1 electric fence (25 miles), 1 drain cleaner and 1 bug zapper
Outlets
The control panel features the upcoming 3 AC outlets:
Furthermore, it has 3 DC outlets: there's a 12V 8A 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.
This WEN generator is RV Ready, as it features a TT-30R receptacle (TT stands for 'Travel Trailer').
Portability
The WEN 56380i is an inverter generator and has an encased design of the following dimensions: L23.2 x W18 x H20.1 in. Thus, it is more esthetical than conventional, open frame products. The generator has a contemporary design, convenient for recreationally generating power.
The 56380i's dry weight of 99.2 lbs lets you use its power anywhere needed. Moreover, a wheel kit and a folding handle allows you to effortlessly displace it once it's on the ground.
Features
The 56380i's control panel
One of the many 56380i's features is the data center, included in its control panel, which conveniently provides information on the power output, voltage and lifetime run hours and thus, helps you monitor its activity and status.
In addition to this info, some light indicators allow you to instantly see if the oil level is too low, the generator is ready and the generator is overloaded.
The inverter generator allows for a quick, easy and convenient assessment of its gas level, as it is equipped with a built-in fuel gauge.
Security-wise, this product benefits from an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, which gives you a complete peace of mind when using it.
While the standard documentation and a user manual, helpful for starting the device promptly, come with the WEN 56380i, the following accessories are also included: funnel and tool kit.
Emissions
The WEN 56380i 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 56380i versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the WEN 56380i compare to generators of similar power (between 2500 and 3500 W).
- Having a dry weight of 99.2 lbs, the WEN 56380i belongs in the expected weight range for generators which produce 2500 to 3500 rated watts. In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the Honda EG2800i, standing at just 66.6 lbs.
- With a lowest possible noise of 57 dBA, this inverter generator places itself amongst the more quiet of the products delivering similar power. If noise emissions are one of your priorities, you may be interested in the Honda EU3000iS, one of the least noisy generators similarly powerful as this one, rated for 50 dBA.
- The autonomy is somewhat low end compared to devices of its power range, as it reaches only 8.5 hours at 50% load on a full tank. 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 Honda EB4000, with 16 hours .
- While the run time is an important parameter, it is dependent on the fuel tank’s capacity and thus, doesn’t say much on its own unless we consider fuel consumption as well. This inverter generator, with an estimated fuel consumption of just 0.26 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load, is one of the more fuel efficient generators, for the previously mentioned wattage range. If fuel consumption is your top priority, we suggest to check out the Westinghouse iGen4200, which has a fuel consumption of only 0.17 GPH and thus, is one of the most efficient devices in our database.
Price comparison
As you can see from this dynamic chart, when compared to other 2500-3500W generators, the WEN 56380i is on the average side of the price range.
Therefore, this generator nicely fits in the expected budget for this kind of product.
The bottom line
- In the expected price range
- Several accessories included
- RV Ready
- Electric start
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- Quiet for its power (57 dBA)
- Fuel efficient
- Decent weight (99.2 lbs)
- No remote start
- Relatively low run time
Where to buy the WEN 56380i?
Amazon 
eBay 
The Home Depot Features and Specifications
General
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Portable | Yes |
| Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
| RV ready | Yes |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 212 cc WEN OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil, Electric |
Power
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 3400 W |
| Starting watts | 3800 W |
| Running amps | 28.3 amps |
| Peaks amps | 31.7 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 8.5 h |
| Run time @25% load | N/A |
Features
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | No |
| AC outlets | 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) 1x 120V 30A (TT-30R) |
| DC outlets | 1x 12V 8A 2x 5V USB port |
| Data center | Power output, lifetime run hours and voltage |
| Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
| Fuel tank | 2.2 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
Misc
| Weight | 99.2 lbs |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 23.2 x 18 x 20.1 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 57 dBA |
| THD | < 1.2% |
| Emissions | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Floating |
| 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 56380i 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. Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-847-429-9263.
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