WEN DF400i - 3200/4000W Dual Fuel Inverter Generator

In a nutshell, the WEN DF400i is a quiet and compact portable inverter generator mostly geared towards:

• RV travellers wishing to enhance their freedom and nomad lifestyle
• People occasionally participating in sporting competitions, open-air performances and outdoor festivals
• Handcrafting enthusiasts who wish to work on-the-go
• Homeowners who want to be sure of their ability to power their fridges, cooking tools, heating and lighting equipment during power failures
• Camping and tailgating buffs looking to enhance their experience

In the following paragraphs, we shall explore the power characteristics, available outlets, portability, and any additional features of the device, along with its emission compliance information.

Power & Run Time

Thanks to its dual-fuel technology, the WEN DF400i delivers 120V and offers power and versatility. When gasoline-powered, it benefits from a running wattage of 3,200W and a peak wattage of 4,000W. When propane-powered, it has 2,900 rated watts and 3,200 peak watts. Additionally, as the generator is parallel capable (parallel kit not included), it can be linked to a second unit for more power.

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.

The inverter generator features a conventional pull-start mechanism and also a simple and elegant electric starter (battery included). It is rated for a noise of 58 dBA (less noisy than a quiet suburb).

Regarding its running time, the DF400i, with a 2.2 gallons fuel capacity can operate for around 8.5 hours at 50% load with a full tank of gasoline (fuel consumption around 0.26 GPH). When using propane, it can run for around 9 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.52 GPH).

As the DF400i produces a clean sine wave, with a <1.2% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), sensitive electronics may be plugged in the AC outlets safely.

Outlets

The control panel provides the upcoming 3 AC outlets:

Furthermore, it has 3 DC outlets: there's two 5V USB ports with which charging of electronics like mobile phones and tablets is made convenient and a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle with which charging your batteries is made easy.

This WEN generator is RV Ready, thanks to its TT-30R receptacle (TT stands for 'Travel Trailer').

Portability

Since the WEN DF400i is an inverter generator, its closed design (L23.2 x W18 x H20.1 in) has an esthetical advantage over conventional, open frame devices. This type of design is the most modern and convenient way to recreationally generate power.

Although this generator is technically considered 'portable' (in the sense that it can be moved), its 100 lbs make it incredibly difficult to manually lift and transport. Nevertheless, it can still be moved quite conveniently with the help of its set of 2 wheels and its folding handle, once it is placed on the ground.

Features

The DF400i's control panel

The control panel of the DF400i includes a digital data center, which assists you in monitoring its status and activity, as it provides information on the fuel level, voltage, lifetime run hours, frequency and power output.

In addition to this info, some light indicators allow you to instantly see if the generator is ready, its oil levels are insufficient and the generator is overloaded.

The fuel shutoff feature turns off the flow of fuel, allowing for the DF400i 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.

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.

Apart from the typical documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), which lets you start it right away, the WEN DF400i also is packed along with the following accessories: propane hose, funnel and tool kit. An official storage cover is also available, as a separate purchase.

Emissions

The WEN DF400i is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. Thus, selling and purchasing this generator is allowed in each of the 50 states, including California.

Moreover, it features a spark arrestor and therefore, can be used in forested areas.