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)
Amazon 
Walmart 
Northern Tool | Price history for the WEN DF450i |
|---|
| Highest Price $876.99 Lowest Price $726.00 Current Price $876.99 |
Page Content
Description
Zoom on the WEN DF450i
In a nutshell, the WEN DF450i is a quiet and compact portable inverter generator mostly geared towards:
- RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level
- People occasionally participating in sporting competitions, open-air performances and outdoor 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 hobbyists looking for a portable power source
In the sections ahead, the power characteristics, availability of various outlets, the portability, and any additional features of the device shall be discussed.
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 quiet suburb), 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 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).
Thanks to its low <1.2% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), the DF450i produces a clean sine wave output, making it safe for your sensitive electronics when utilizing the AC outlets.
Outlets
The control panel features the following 3 AC outlets:
Furthermore, it has 3 DC outlets: there's a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle with which charging your batteries is made easy and two 5V USB ports (USB-A) with which charging of electronics like mobile phones and tablets is made convenient.
With its TT-30R receptacle (TT standing for 'Travel Trailer'), this WEN generator is RV Ready, perfectly suited for powering recreational vehicles.
Portability
With its enclosed inverter generator design (L23.2 x W18 x H20.1 in), the WEN DF450i offers superior aesthetics and operates with minimized noise levels, distinguishing itself from standard, open frame generators. The generator has a contemporary design, convenient for recreationally generating 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. Despite the restricted maneuverability, its set of 2 wheels and its folding handle provides a solution, allowing for convenient shifting once the generator is positioned on the ground.
Features
The DF450i's control panel
The DF450i's control panel is equipped with a digital data center, furnishing detailed information on the voltage, frequency, power output, lifetime run hours and fuel level for you to easily track its activity and status.
In addition to this info, the device's light indicators will illuminate to indicate if the generator is ready, the generator is on overload 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.
Security-wise, this product benefits from an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, which gives you a complete peace of mind when using it.
With the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), letting you start the generator quickly, the WEN DF450i also comes with several accessories, including: funnel, tool kit 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).
- As its weight is 100 pounds, the WEN DF450i falls in the expected weight range of the inverters in the 3000-4000 rated wattage category. Weight-conscious users may find the Pulsar PGD40iSCO appealing, as it is one of the top contenders in this power range, weighing just 46 pounds.
- Delivering a rated noise output as low as 58 dBA, this inverter generator is has a quieter operation that most units of similar type and power. For those who are looking for a less noisy device, we suggest the Westinghouse iGen5000DF. With just 52 dBA, it is one of the most quiet devices in this power range.
- 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 concerned with autonomy, one of the products of a comparable power output, which offers the highest run time, is the Westinghouse iGen5000DF, boasting with around 15 hours.
- Run time is crucial, but it heavily relies on the fuel tank's capacity. Thus, considering fuel efficiency alongside is essential. This inverter generator can be considered as fuel-efficient, due to its low estimated fuel consumption of only 0.26 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load, within the aforementioned wattage range. If you wish to get a unit of similar power, but with one of the best fuel efficiency, you could consider the Pulsar PGD40iSCO, which has an impressively low fuel consumption of 0.22 GPH.
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 | 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 |
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
