WEN DF402iX - 3500/4000W Dual Fuel Open Frame Inverter Generator
The WEN DF402iX is a compact and lightweight open frame dual fuel inverter generator with a rated wattage of 3,500 W and a starting wattage of 4,000 W. (Read full specs)
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Description
Zoom on the WEN DF402iX
In a nutshell, the WEN DF402iX is a compact and lightweight portable inverter generator mostly geared towards:
- RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level
- Occasional participants of outdoor events, competitions, concerts and festivals
- Amateur DIY lovers
- 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
The following sections will present you in detail its power characteristics, the different outlets it offers, its overall portability, and the extra features it benefits from.
Power & Run Time
Delivering 120V, the WEN DF402iX is enhanced by dual-fuel technology, providing power and versatility. Running on gasoline, it boasts a running wattage of 3,500W and a starting wattage of 4,000W. Alternatively, when propane-powered, it delivers 3,200 running watts and 3,600 starting watts. Furthermore, the parallel capability (GNA50i parallel kit (opens in a new tab) not included) offers the advantage of increasing power output when connected to another similar or compatible unit, delivering expanded energy capacity and flexibility for various applications.
Its starting mechanism is based on a classic hand-operated recoil starting mechanism.
In terms of run time, the DF402iX, boasting a 1.85 gallon fuel tank, can run for around 7 hours at 50% load on a full tank of gasoline (with fuel consumption averaging 0.26 gallons per hour). Additionally, it provides around 9.5 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.49 GPH) of operation with propane.
The DF402iX ensures a clean sine wave output, boasting <1.2% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) to protect your sensitive electronics when connected to its AC outlets.
Outlets
The control panel features the upcoming 3 AC outlets:
It also sports 2 DC outlets: there's two 5V USB ports (USB-A) enabling convenient charging of devices like mobile phones and tablets.
This WEN generator is RV Ready, as it features a TT-30R receptacle (TT stands for 'Travel Trailer').
Portability
Measuring L19.8 x W13.8 x H18.9 in, the classic open frame build of the WEN DF402iX delivers stability and easy maintenance access to components, facilitating air circulation. The design is ideal for rough environments and demanding outdoor use.
At 66.1 lbs, the DF402iX is easily managed, ensuring it can be brought along wherever you need power. Moreover, the open frame structure of this generator makes it easy to grab and relocate.
Features
The DF402iX's control panel
When the generator is ready, the generator is on overload and the oil level is too low, you will be informed by the featured light indicators.
Thanks to its built-in fuel gauge, the inverter generator allows you to quickly, conveniently, and easily check the gas level at a glance.
From a security standpoint, the product offers an overload protection (circuit breaker), a low fuel automatic shutdown and an automatic low oil shut-off, allowing you to use it with a peace of mind.
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.
Besides the classic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to get you promptly started, the WEN DF402iX also comes with some accessories: 2 altitude kits, funnel, tool kit and propane hose are included. An official storage cover is also available, as a separate purchase.
The WEN DF402iX versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the WEN DF402iX compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 3000 and 4000 W).
- When it comes to weight, the WEN DF402iX tips the scales at just 66.1 pounds, making it one of the lighter inverter generators in the 3000 to 4000 rated wattage range. If weight is an important consideration for you, the Pulsar PGD40iSCO stands out as one of the top contenders in this power category, with a dry weight of 46 pounds.
- Regarding its autonomy, the autonomy of the DF402iX, reaching around 7 hours at a 50% load, can be considered as low end, compared to other inverters of a roughly equal output. If autonomy is your priority, one of the devices of a similar power output with the highest run time is the Westinghouse iGen5000DF, reaching around 15 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 provides better fuel efficiency than most others in its wattage range, consuming approximately 0.26 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load. If you wish to acquire one of the most gasoline efficient products of this power range, the Pulsar PGD40iSCO, with a fuel consumption of 0.22 GPH could be in your good books.
The bottom line
- Dual fuel
- CO Watchdog
- Several accessories included
- RV Ready
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- Lightweight (66.1 lbs)
- Fuel efficient
- No data center
- No electric start
- Relatively low run time
Do you own the WEN DF402iX and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?
Let us know and write your own review.
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
| RV ready | Yes |
| Fuel | Dual Fuel (gasoline/propane) |
| Engine | 212 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 5V |
| Gasoline | Propane | |
|---|---|---|
| Running watts | 3,500 W | 3,200 W |
| Starting watts | 4,000 W | 3,600 W |
| Running amps | 29.2 amps | 26.7 amps |
| Peak amps | 33.3 amps | 30 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 7 h | 9.5 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | 2x 5V USB port (USB-A) |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
| Fuel tank | 1.85 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 66.1 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 19.8 x 13.8 x 18.9 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | Unknown |
| 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, propane hose, and 2 altitude kits |
| UPC | 044459994022 |
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 DF402iX 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 |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Toaster oven | 800 | 800 | |
| Total | 2792 W | 3792 W | |
| For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 | |
| Slow cooker | 270 | 270 | |
| Cell phone charger | 20 | 20 | |
| Total | 2780 W | 3370 W | |
| For work | Grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
| Demolition hammer | 1260 | 1260 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 2740 W | 3840 W |
What's the next size up? (Asked July 11, 2023)
You may want to have a look at this list of WEN inverter generators. They all provide over 3,500 running watts.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
