Father’s Day
WEN DF450i - 3500/4500W Dual Fuel Inverter Generator
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 summary, the WEN DF450i is a quiet and compact portable inverter generator especially useful 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 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 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
Featuring dual-fuel technology, the WEN DF450i provides 120V, as well as versatility and power. Running on gasoline, it delivers a running wattage of 3,500W and a peak wattage of 4,500W. Alternatively, when fueled by propane, it offers 3,150 running watts and 4,500 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.
With a noise rating of 58 dBA (less noisy than a conversation at home), the inverter generator features a manual recoil starter system.
As for its running time, the DF450i, along with its 2.2 gallons fuel capacity, can run for around 8.5 hours at 50% load with a full tank filled with gasoline (fuel consumption around 0.26 GPH). If propane is used, it can operate for around 9 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.52 GPH).
Delicate electronics can be plugged in the AC outlets safely, as the DF450i generates a clean sine wave, reaching a <1.2% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).
Outlets
The control panel includes the following 3 AC outlets:
Additionally, it offers 3 DC outlets: there's a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle providing easy battery charging capabilities and two 5V USB ports (USB-A) with which charging of electronics like mobile phones and tablets is made convenient.
Equipped with a TT-30R receptacle (TT representing 'Travel Trailer'), this WEN generator is RV Ready, ensuring compatibility with recreational vehicles.
Portability
Since the WEN DF450i is an inverter generator, its closed design (L23.2 x W18 x H20.1 in) not only provides an aesthetic advantage but also contributes to reduced noise levels compared to conventional, open frame devices. The generator has a contemporary design, convenient for recreationally generating power.
Weighing 100 lbs, the DF450i is practical, ensuring it can follow you wherever power is required. Moreover, its set of 2 wheels and its folding handle will allow you to easily shift it once it's on the ground.
Features
The DF450i's control panel
Featuring a digital data center on its control panel, the DF450i offers you convenient access to essential information about the power output, lifetime run hours, fuel level, frequency and voltage, facilitating effective monitoring of its activity and status.
In addition to this info, some light indicators allow you to instantly see if the generator is on overload, the generator is ready and the oil level is too low.
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.
Regarding security, the generator comes with an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), providing peace of mind during operation.
While the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), helpful for starting the device promptly, come with the WEN DF450i, the following accessories are also included: 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).
- With a dry weight of 100 lbs, the WEN DF450i falls within the expected weight range for inverter generators in the 3000 to 4000 rated wattage. If you are mindful of weight, the Pulsar PGD40iSCO is among the top contenders in this power range, with a dry weight of 46 pounds.
- Since this inverter generator is rated for a lowest possible noise of 58 dBA, it can be considered as one of the more quiet of the products generating similar power. If noise emissions are one of your priorities, you may be interested in the Westinghouse iGen5000DF, one of the least noisy generators similarly powerful as this one, rated for 52 dBA.
- Given that the DF450i reaches an autonomy of around 8.5 hours with a full tank and at 50% load, it is placed within the average autonomy range of similarly powerful inverter generators. If prolonged run time is essential to your needs, you could consider the Firman W03663OF, which offers one of the highest autonomy among devices with similar power output, lasting around 18 hours.
- While run time matters, it's heavily influenced by the fuel tank's capacity. Hence, it's important to consider fuel efficiency alongside. This inverter generator, with an estimated fuel consumption of just 0.26 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load, is one of the more fuel-efficient generators, for the previously mentioned wattage range. If you wish to further improve in the area of fuel efficiency, the Pulsar PGD40iSCO, which boasts with a gas consumption of only 0.22 GPH, may be the right generator for you.
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
- 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
Do you own the WEN DF450i 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 | 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 | 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 |
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 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 | Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Vacuum cleaner | 1075 | 1175 | |
| Cell phone charger | 20 | 20 | |
| Total | 2787 W | 3787 W | |
| For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Total | 2790 W | 3380 W | |
| For work | Grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
| Demolition hammer | 1260 | 1260 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 2740 W | 3840 W |
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
