The WEN DF450i is a quiet and compact dual fuel inverter generator with a rated wattage of 3,500 W and a starting wattage of 4,500 W. (Read full specs)
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Description
Zoom on the WEN DF450i
In short, the WEN DF450i is a quiet and compact portable inverter generator adequately designed for:
- RV travellers looking for even more independence
- 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 able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
- Tailgating and campground aficionados with the desire of enjoying power anywhere they go
In the forthcoming sections, you'll delve into its power characteristics, the various outlets it offers, its overall portability, and the additional features it boasts.
Power & Run Time
Delivering 120V, the WEN DF450i 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 4,500W. Alternatively, when propane-powered, it delivers 3,150 running watts and 4,500 starting watts. Furthermore, its parallel capability (parallel kit not included) allows for increasing of power output when connected to another similar or compatible unit, ensuring expanded energy capacity and reliability for various applications.
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 58 dBA (less noisy than rainfall), the inverter generator's ignition is facilitated by a manual recoil starter system.
Regarding its running time, the DF450i, with a 2.2 gallons fuel tank, can operate for around 8.5 hours at 50% load with a full gasoline tank (with fuel consumption estimated at around 0.26 gallons per hour). It also offers around 9 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.52 GPH) of operation when using propane.
The DF450i generates a clean sine wave: providing <1.2% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), delicate electronics can be plugged in its AC outlets safely.
Outlets
The control panel provides the upcoming 3 AC outlets:
Furthermore, it has 3 DC outlets: there's a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle enabling simple battery charging for added ease and two 5V USB ports (USB-A) allowing you to conveniently charge electronics such as mobile phones and tablets.
This WEN generator is RV Ready, thanks to its TT-30R receptacle (TT stands for 'Travel Trailer').
Portability
The WEN DF450i's characteristic encased inverter generator design (L23.2 x W18 x H20.1 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.
Though weighing 100 lbs, the generator remains classified as 'portable,' indicating its capability to be moved, though its weight could pose transport challenges. However, the limited maneuverability is remedied with its set of 2 wheels and its folding handle, facilitating convenient shifting once the generator is positioned on the ground.
Features
The control panel of the DF450i includes a digital data center, which assists you in monitoring its status and activity, as it provides information on the voltage, power output, fuel level, lifetime run hours and frequency.
In addition to this info, the generator's light indicators provide visual feedback when its oil levels are insufficient, the generator is on overload and the generator is ready.
The fuel shutoff feature turns off the flow of fuel, allowing for the DF450i 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.
As far as security is concerned, the generator comes with an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), providing peace of mind during use.
Along the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), useful for starting the generator right away, the WEN DF450i's package also includes these accessories: tool kit, funnel and propane hose. An official storage cover is also available, as a separate purchase.
Product Videos
The WEN DF450i versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the WEN DF450i compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 3000 and 4000 W).
- Having a dry weight of 100 lbs, the WEN DF450i belongs in the expected weight range for inverter generators which produce 3000 to 4000 rated watts. If weight is your top priority, one of the champions in this power category is the Pulsar PGD40iSCO, weighing just 46 pounds.
- With a lowest noise rating of 58 dBA, the inverter generator is one of the more quiet of the generators of similar type and power. If noise is a concern for you, you could consider the Westinghouse iGen5000DF, which is one of the least noisy generators in its power range, rated at 52 dBA.
- The DF450i's runtime of around 8.5 hours at a 50% load on a full tank positions it within the average autonomy range compared to other inverter generators with similar power. 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.
- Though run time is a significant parameter, it's closely tied to the generator's fuel tank size. To get a comprehensive understanding, fuel efficiency must also be taken into account. This inverter generator has a better fuel efficiency than other units in the aforementioned output range, consuming approximately 0.26 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load. If minimizing fuel usage is one of your key priorities, the Pulsar PGD40iSCO is one of the most efficient devices with similar power output, with a gasoline consumption of only 0.22 gallons per hour.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 3000-4000W dual fuel inverter generators, the WEN DF450i 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
- Several accessories included
- RV Ready
- Parallel capable
- Auto Fuel Selection technology
- Inverter
- Quiet for its power (58 dBA)
- Fuel efficient
- Decent weight (100 lbs)
- Decent run time
- No electric start
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 | 3 years |
Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
Gasoline | Propane | |
---|---|---|
Running watts | 3,500 W | 3,150 W |
Starting watts | 4,500 W | 4,500 W |
Running amps | 29.2 amps | 26.3 amps |
Peak amps | 37.5 amps | 37.5 amps |
Run time @50% load | 8.5 h | 9 h |
Run time @25% load | Unknown | Unknown |
GFCI outlets | No |
---|---|
Covered outlets | No |
Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
AC outlets |
|
DC outlets | 1x 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) 2x 5V USB port (USB-A) |
Data center | Power output, fuel level, lifetime run hours, voltage and frequency |
Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
Fuel tank | 2.2 gal |
Fuel gauge | Digital |
Weight | 100 lbs |
---|---|
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 23.2 x 18 x 20.1 in |
Noise (lower limit) | 58 dBA |
THD | < 1.2% |
Compliance | CARB, EPA |
Security | Low oil and overload protection |
Spark arrestor | Yes |
Neutral | Floating |
Accessories included | Funnel, tool kit, and propane hose |
Country of origin | Vietnam |
UPC | 044459904502 |
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.
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 DF450i is covered under a warranty for up to 3 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 |
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