WEN DF1100T - 8300/11000W Dual Fuel Generator With Electric Start
The WEN DF1100T is a powerful open frame dual fuel generator with a rated wattage of 8,300 W and a starting wattage of 11,000 W. (Read full specs)
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Description
Zoom on the WEN DF1100T
In a nutshell, the WEN DF1100T is a powerful portable generator mostly geared towards:
- Homeowners who want to be sure of their ability to power their fridges, cooking tools, heating and lighting equipment during power failures
- Professionals who want to be able to deliver results, even during a power failure
- RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level
In the sections ahead, the power characteristics, availability of various outlets, the portability, and any additional features of the device shall be discussed.
Power & Run Time
With its dual-fuel technology, the powerful and versatile WEN DF1100T provides an output of 120/240V. While gasoline-powered, it gives a running wattage of 8,300W along with a peak wattage of 11,000W. While propane-powered, it provides 7,500 rated watts and 9,500 starting watts.
This generator features a classic hand-operated recoil starting mechanism and also an intuitive and practical electric starter (battery included).
In terms of run time, the DF1100T, boasting a 6.6 gallons fuel tank, can run for around 8.5 hours at 50% load on a full tank of gasoline (with fuel consumption averaging 0.78 gallons per hour). Additionally, it provides around 3 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 1.57 GPH) of operation with propane.
The quite high THD (<15%) of the DF1100T makes it unsuitable for powering sensitive electronic devices.
Outlets
The control panel features the upcoming 6 AC outlets:
Furthermore, it showcases 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A receptacle with which charging your batteries is made easy.
For RV owners with a 50-amp service, this WEN unit is RV-ready, boasting a 14-50R outlet.
Portability
Measuring L27.3 x W20.6 x H21.9 in, the WEN DF1100T showcases a classic open frame layout, offering stability and simple maintenance access to components, while facilitating air circulation. The generator is designed for ideal use outdoors and in rough environments.
Though weighing 213.8 lbs, the generator remains classified as 'portable,' indicating its capability to be moved, though its weight could pose transport challenges. Nevertheless, thanks to its wheel kit and its folding handle (a decent solution to its lack of maneuverability), the generator can be easily moved, once placed the ground.
Features
To help you monitor the DF1100T's status and activity, its control panel is equipped with a convenient meter, displaying voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours information.
Featuring a built-in fuel gauge, the generator offers quick, convenient, and easy gas level checks at a glance.
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.
In addition to the traditional documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to help you get started promptly, the WEN DF1100T also includes several accessories: oil and propane hose. An official storage cover is also available, as a separate purchase.
Product Videos
The WEN DF1100T versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the WEN DF1100T compare to dual fuel generators of similar power (between 7500 and 8500 W).
- Since the generator weighs in at a dry weight of 213.8 lbs, the WEN DF1100T belongs in the expected weight range for dual fuel devices which can produce between 7500 and 8500 rated watts. If weight is a key factor for your needs, the Pulsar PGL9000BCO is noteworthy for being one of the top contenders in this power range, with a dry weight of 149 pounds.
- In terms of autonomy, the DF1100T offers around 8.5 hours at a 50% load, placing it at the lower range within its type and power range. If extended autonomy is what matters most to you, the Firman H07553 could be an excellent choice, offering one of the longest run times among units in its power category, reaching around 12 hours.
- Run time is a key metric, but it's dependent on the generator's fuel capacity. Therefore, discussing fuel efficiency is necessary to get the full picture. This generator is not fuel-efficient compared to devices of similar output: its estimated fuel consumption stands at 0.78 GPH at a 50% load. To prioritize fuel savings, we advise considering the Powerhorse s10500id, which stands out for its gasoline efficiency, consuming just 0.59 gallons per hour.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 7500-8500W dual fuel generators, the WEN DF1100T 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
- Dual fuel
- GFCI Outlets
- Electric start
- Decent weight (213.8 lbs)
- No remote start
- Relatively low run time
- Low fuel efficiency
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Dual Fuel (gasoline/propane) |
| Engine | 457 cc WEN OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil, Electric |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
| Gasoline | Propane | |
|---|---|---|
| Running watts | 8,300 W | 7,500 W |
| Starting watts | 11,000 W | 9,500 W |
| Running amps (@120/240V) | 69.2/34.6 amps | 62.5/31.3 amps |
| Peak amps (@120/240V) | 91.7/45.8 amps | 79.2/39.6 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 8.5 h | 3 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | Yes |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | 1x 12V 8A |
| Data center | VFT |
| Indicators | No |
| Fuel tank | 6.6 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 213.8 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 27.3 x 20.6 x 21.9 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | Unknown |
| THD | < 15% |
| Compliance | EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Accessories included | Oil, propane hose, battery, and wheel kit |
| Other model numbers | DF1100 |
| UPC | 044459411017 |
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 DF1100T 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 | Sump pump (1/2 hp) | 1050 | 2150 |
| Furnace fan (1/2 hp) | 875 | 2350 | |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Electric range | 2100 | 2100 | |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Coffee maker | 600 | 600 | |
| Total | 6617 W | 8092 W | |
| For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Electric grill | 1650 | 1650 | |
| Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Mixer | 200 | 200 | |
| Total | 6630 W | 7050 W | |
| For work | Table saw | 1800 | 4500 |
| Air compressor (1 hp) | 1600 | 6100 | |
| Grinder | 1400 | 2500 | |
| Demolition hammer | 1260 | 1260 | |
| Drain cleaner | 250 | 250 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 6390 W | 10890 W |
Can i buy anything to reduce the noise level? (Asked September 04, 2020)
We do not recommend any sort of modification. However, you may consider an enclosure (such as a ZombieBox (opens in a new tab)).
What gauge wire do I need to connect to house panel 10 feet away? (Asked February 16, 2021)
Page 23 of the owner's manual (opens in a new tab) contains a wire gauge chart.
Does it charge its own battery or do I need to attach a battery maintainer? (Asked March 18, 2021)
The unit charges the battery while running.
Do you need the battery in generator in order to use the recoil starter cord. (Asked March 31, 2021)
When using gasoline to run the generator, the battery must be connected whether using electric or recoil start. When using LPG, battery does not need to be connected for recoil start.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.




User Reviews
This generator has been a workhorse for me since I got it in 2019. Has run mostly on gas but works flawlessly with Propane. Make sure you replace the factory spark plug as it is stale as any other brand new plug. Made all the difference. Unit is sturdy and for the price, can’t be beaten. Not sure what high priced is another reviewer talking about. Works great with the Generlink to power a 2450 sqft house without issues.
High price, no actual warranty coverage, manufacturer claims the units carburetor is not a part of the machine. My WEN 11,000 Dual Fuel broke itself after 18 hours. They will not pay the $400 it cost to fix. If you need a generator please do yourself and your wallet a huge favor – buy anything other than a WEN generator. This company is running a warranty scam and its customer service staff does not tell the truth when there is a problem.
Have had it for 2 years now. It has gotten me through all my days with no power in the winters and summers here in CA. Have gotten better runtimes at the 4000ft elevation than they say I should get. Powers everything that I need other than my pellet stove. Kids are happy I can keep tv and internet up and running. Wife is happy fridge, freezer, and chest freezer all stay cold. In all it probably runs for bout 20 to 30 days a year with no power (PG&E SUCKS). Oil consumption is low.
Love it!