The WEN DF250iX is a quiet, compact and lightweight dual fuel inverter generator with a rated wattage of 2,000 W and a starting wattage of 2,500 W. (Read full specs)
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The Home Depot | Price history for the WEN DF250iX |
|---|
| Highest Price $587.99 Lowest Price $543.58 Current Price $587.99 |
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Description
Zoom on the WEN DF250iX
In short, the WEN DF250iX is a quiet, compact and lightweight portable inverter generator adequately designed for:
- Tailgating and campground aficionados with the desire of enjoying power anywhere they go
- Amateur DIY lovers
In the following paragraphs, we shall explore the power characteristics, available outlets, portability, and any additional features of the device.
Power & Run Time
The dual-fuel technology of the WEN DF250iX allows for an output of 120V and provides superb power and versatility. If gasoline-powered, the device provides a running wattage of 2,000W and a starting wattage of 2,500W. If propane-powered, it gives 1,800 rated watts and 2,250 starting watts. Moreover, the parallel capability (parallel kit not included) allows for doubling of power output when paired with another similar or compatible unit, providing increased energy capacity and reliability for diverse needs.
WEN’s Auto Fuel Selection technology automatically selects the fuel source (LPG or gasoline) depending on availability and prioritizes LPG. Thus, if a propane tank with enough LPG is connected, the generator will automatically use LPG. If no propane tank is connected, or if there is not enough LPG remaining in the tank, the generator will use gasoline.
With a noise rating of 52 dBA (just slightly more noisy than rainfall), the inverter generator's starting mechanism is centered around a manual recoil starter system.
Regarding its running time, the DF250iX, with a 1.2 gallon fuel capacity, can operate for around 6 hours at 50% load with a full tank of gasoline (fuel consumption around 0.2 GPH). When using propane, it can run for around 17 hours (estimation based on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.28 GPH).
The DF250iX generates a clean sine wave with <1.2% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), ensuring minimal electrical noise and fluctuations. This feature makes it ideal for powering sensitive electronics, providing stable and reliable AC power through the outlets.
Outlets
The control panel features 2 AC outlets as follows:
Moreover, it boasts 2 DC outlets: there's two 5V USB ports (USB-A) allowing you to conveniently charge electronics such as mobile phones and tablets.
Portability
The WEN DF250iX's characteristic encased inverter generator design (L19 x W11.5 x H18.2 in) provides an aesthetic advantage and contributes to quieter operation compared to any ordinary, open frame product. The featured design follows the latest trends and is ideal for easy and recreational use.
The DF250iX boasts a weight of merely 48.5 lbs, solidifying its reputation as a lightweight, easily transportable generator. 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 DF250iX's control panel
Light indicators on the device will notify you if the generator is ready, the generator is overloaded and the oil level is too low.
Thanks to its built-in fuel gauge, the inverter generator allows you to quickly, conveniently, and easily check the gas level at a glance.
The fuel shutoff feature turns off the flow of fuel, allowing for the DF250iX 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.
From a security point of view, the generator is equipped with an automatic low oil shut-off, a low fuel automatic shutdown and an overload protection (circuit breaker), giving you a peace of mind during use.
The unit also benefits from WEN's CO Watchdog carbon monoxide detection. This system measures the accumulation of poisonous CO gas while the generator is running. If the level of CO gas gets too high, the CO Watchdog system will automatically shut down the generator.
Beyond the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to assist with setup, the WEN DF250iX ships with supplementary accessories: funnel, tool kit and propane hose.
The WEN DF250iX versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the WEN DF250iX compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 1500 and 2500 W).
- At 48.5 lbs in dry weight, the WEN DF250iX fits well within the typical weight bracket for inverter generators producing 1500 to 2500 rated watts. If weight matters to you, one of the champions in this power range is the Genmax GM2000i with only 34.2 pounds.
- With noise levels starting from 52 dBA rating, this inverter generator stands out as one of the quieter options among products of similar type and power. If noise emissions are one of your priorities, you may be interested in the Honda EU2200i, one of the least noisy generators similarly powerful as this one, rated for 48 dBA.
- The DF250iX's autonomy is somewhat low end compared to devices of its type and power range, as it reaches only around 6 hours at 50% load on a full tank. For those prioritizing autonomy, the Westinghouse iGen2200 could be considered, as it offers one of the longest run times among generators with similar power output, reaching around 10 hours.
- Autonomy holds its importance, however, it is largely dependent on the generator’s fuel capacity and so, it is nonsensible to discuss it without mentioning fuel efficiency as well. In fact, this inverter generator is not one of the most fuel-efficient options in the aforementioned wattage range: its estimated gasoline consumption at 50% load is around 0.2 GPH. If not satisfied with the afore-mentioned fuel consumption, you may wish to check out the Westinghouse iGen2200. With a fuel consumption of as little as 0.11 GPH, it is one of the most efficient generators currently on the market.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 1500-2500W dual fuel inverter generators, the WEN DF250iX 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
- Dual fuel
- CO Watchdog
- Several accessories included
- Parallel capable
- Auto Fuel Selection technology
- Inverter
- Quiet for its power (52 dBA)
- Decent weight (48.5 lbs)
- No data center
- Relatively low run time
- Low fuel efficiency
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Dual Fuel (gasoline/propane) |
| Engine | 80 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 5V |
| Gasoline | Propane | |
|---|---|---|
| Running watts | 2,000 W | 1,800 W |
| Starting watts | 2,500 W | 2,250 W |
| Running amps | 16.7 amps | 15 amps |
| Peak amps | 20.8 amps | 18.8 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 6 h | 17 h * |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets | 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) |
| DC outlets | 2x 5V USB port (USB-A) |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
| Fuel tank | 1.2 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 48.5 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 19 x 11.5 x 18.2 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 52 dBA |
| THD | < 1.2% |
| Compliance | EPA |
| Security | Low oil, overload and low fuel protection, CO monitoring |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Funnel, tool kit, and propane hose |
| UPC | 044459525004 |
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.
* Propane runtime is our own estimation, based on a 20 lbs tank and NIST 1994 GGE (Gasoline Gallon Equivalent) formula: 5.66 lbs of propane = 1 gal of gasoline.
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 DF250iX 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 |
| Clothes iron | 1270 | 1270 | |
| Cell phone charger | 20 | 20 | |
| Total | 1482 W | 2482 W | |
| For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Total | 1580 W | 2000 W | |
| For work | Demolition hammer | 1260 | 1260 |
| Drain cleaner | 250 | 250 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 1590 W | 1590 W |
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
Dual fuel is great, running on LP reduces spark arrestor maintenance. LP is readily available when gas pumps do not work.
THREE year warranty is great.
I have two, in parallel they are powerful, at night when demand is low you can run only one and save fuel.
Both are supremely quiet.
Very light and easy to service.
I bought this generator and did 2 oil changes 1 hour runtime each with no load to flush out the engine of any particles then did a 1/2 hour realtime test and was amazed. At the same time I was able to run (off propane) 50inch TV, 20 inch TV, 9500 BTU AC,living room lamps 2 of them, bathroom lights and exhaust fan, refrigerator. At that point while all of this was running I turned on my furnace (I have steam heat) for 10 minutes. The lights never flickered in the house and the genny was putting along fine without the overload light ever coming on. I also bought a flame king camp stove so now when the power goes out I’m good to go.
Now I cannnot wait for the power to go out !
Bought one of these at the end of September, 2022. It is my understanding that this is a new model in the WEN line, just released in August. Anyway, I filled the oil, added gas, and it started on the third pull. Let it warm up for a few minutes and then added a load (my leaf blower). The generator sped up just like it is supposed to when under load, and immediately dropped back to idle speed when I turned the leaf blower off. It runs very quiet at idle and even when under load it isn’t that loud. Over the next hour I plugged a few different things into it- just to vary the operating conditions, but overall I am happy with my purchase and it seems to work just fine. I also ordered the $10 magnetic-tipped oil plug to deal with any metallic debris that might be floating around in the crankcase, but come on WEN- this should be including this as standard.