Father’s Day
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
To sum up, the WEN DF1100T is a powerful portable generator tailored for:
- Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
- Professionals in need of safely powering high-intensity work or lighting equipment
- RV travellers wishing to enhance their freedom and nomad lifestyle
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
The WEN DF1100T
Delivering 120/240V, the WEN DF1100T is enhanced by dual-fuel technology, providing power and versatility. Running on gasoline, it boasts a running wattage of 8,300W and a starting wattage of 11,000W. Alternatively, when propane-powered, it delivers 7,500 running watts and 9,500 starting watts.
Its starting mechanisms include a manual recoil starter system and a user-friendly and hassle-free electric starter (battery included).
Concerning its running time, the DF1100T, featuring a 6.6 gallons fuel tank, can continuously run for around 8.5 hours at 50% load with a full gasoline tank (consuming fuel at approximately 0.78 gallons per hour). Alternatively, when utilizing propane, it offers around 3 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 1.57 GPH) of runtime.
As the DF1100T exhibits a THD of less than 15%, which is relatively high, it is best avoided for powering sensitive electronic devices.
Outlets
The control panel features the upcoming 6 AC outlets:
Additionally, it features 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A receptacle enabling simple battery charging for added ease.
If you own an RV with a 50-amp service, you can consider this WEN unit as RV-ready, as it features a 14-50R outlet. Its L5-30R receptacle can also be used for a simple RV connection with an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor.
Portability
With dimensions of L27.3 x W20.6 x H21.9 in, the traditional open frame design of the WEN DF1100T ensures stability while allowing easy maintenance access to components and promoting effective air cooling. This type of design is ideal for tough environments and heavy outdoor use.
Despite its weight of 213.8 lbs, the generator is considered 'portable,' signifying its capability to be moved, albeit its heaviness may hinder easy transport. Nonetheless, the limited maneuverability is compensated for by utilizing its wheel kit and its folding handle, which facilitates shifting once the generator is set on the ground.
Features
The DF1100T's control panel
To facilitate status and activity monitoring, a convenient meter, showing voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours metrics are embedded in the control panel of the DF1100T.
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 automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), which gives you a complete peace of mind when using it.
Along the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), useful for starting the generator right away, the WEN DF1100T's package also includes these accessories: propane hose and oil. 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).
- At 213.8 lbs in dry weight, the WEN DF1100T fits well within the typical weight bracket for dual fuel generators producing 7500 to 8500 rated watts. In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the Pulsar PGL9000BCO, standing at just 149 lbs.
- The DF1100T's autonomy is somewhat low end compared to devices of its type and power range, as it reaches only around 8.5 hours at 50% load on a full tank. If prolonged run time is essential to your needs, you could consider the Firman H07553, which offers one of the highest autonomy among devices with similar power output, lasting around 12 hours.
- Run time is a key metric, but it's dependent on the generator's fuel tank capacity. Therefore, discussing fuel efficiency is necessary for a complete understanding. When it comes to fuel efficiency among generators with similar wattage, this generator lags behind, with a consumption rate of 0.78 GPH at a 50% load. If you wish to get a unit of similar power, but with one of the best fuel efficiency, you could consider the Powerhorse s10500id, which has an impressively low fuel consumption of 0.59 GPH.
The bottom line
- Dual fuel
- GFCI Outlets
- Electric start
- Decent weight (213.8 lbs)
- No remote start
- Relatively low run time
- Low fuel efficiency
Do you own the WEN DF1100T and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?
Let us know and write your own review.
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 |
| Neutral | Bonded to frame |
| 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 | AC (10,000 BTU) | 1500 | 2200 |
| Dish washer | 1500 | 3000 | |
| Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Microwave (1000 watts) | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Blender | 400 | 850 | |
| Pair of small speakers | 45 | 45 | |
| Total | 6637 W | 8137 W | |
| For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Electric grill | 1650 | 1650 | |
| Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Blender | 400 | 850 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 6620 W | 7210 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!