WEN DF451i - 3500/4500W Dual Fuel Inverter Generator With Electric Start
The WEN DF451i 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 DF451i
In short, the WEN DF451i is a quiet and compact portable inverter generator adequately designed for:
- RV travellers looking for even more independence
- Occasional participants of outdoor events, competitions, concerts and festivals
- DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools
- 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 hobbyists looking for a portable power source
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 DF451i provides 120V, and offers both power and versatility. Running on gasoline, it delivers a running wattage of 3,500W and a starting wattage of 4,500W. When propane-powered, it offers 3,150 running watts and 4,500 starting watts. Moreover, the parallel capability (parallel kit not included) allows for increasing of power output when paired with another similar or compatible unit, providing increased energy capacity and reliability for diverse needs.
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, but also a hassle-free and practical electric starter (battery included).
In terms of run time, the DF451i, boasting a 2.2 gallons fuel tank, can run for around 8.5 hours at 50% load on a full tank of gasoline (with fuel consumption averaging 0.26 gallons per hour). Additionally, it provides around 9 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.52 GPH) of operation with propane.
The <1.2% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) of the DF451i ensures a clean sine wave output, providing a secure power source for your sensitive electronics through its AC outlets.
Outlets
The control panel features 3 AC outlets as follows:
Moreover, it presents 3 DC outlets: there's a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle providing easy battery charging capabilities and two 5V USB ports (USB-A) ensuring convenient charging of devices like mobile phones and tablets, for connectivity on the go.
This WEN generator is RV Ready, thanks to its TT-30R receptacle (TT stands for 'Travel Trailer').
Portability
The WEN DF451i'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.
With a weight of 100 lbs, the generator is still labeled as 'portable,' denoting its ability to be moved, although its heaviness might restrict easy portability. Nevertheless, the restricted maneuverability is counteracted by its set of 2 wheels and its folding handle, enabling easy shifting once the generator is set in place.
Features
For easy status and activity monitoring of the DF451i, its control panel integrates a digital data center, offering insights into the voltage, frequency, lifetime run hours, fuel level and power output.
In addition to this info, the generator's light indicators provide visual feedback when the generator is ready, its oil levels are insufficient and the generator is on overload.
The fuel shutoff feature turns off the flow of fuel, allowing for the DF451i 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.
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.
While the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), helpful for starting the device promptly, come with the WEN DF451i, the following accessories are also included: tool kit, propane hose and funnel. An official storage cover is also available, as a separate purchase.
Product Videos
The WEN DF451i versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the WEN DF451i compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 3000 and 4000 W).
- With a dry weight of 100 pounds, the WEN DF451i finds itself in the expected weight range for inverter generators able to produce between 3000 and 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.
- At just 58 dBA rated noise level, this inverter generator is positioned as one of the quieter choices among devices delivering similar type and power. If noise emissions are one of your priorities, you may want to take a look at the Westinghouse iGen5000DF. It's one of the quietest options among generators of similar power, rated at 52 dBA.
- With a runtime of around 8.5 hours under a 50% load on a full tank, the DF451i falls within the average autonomy range among the inverter generators of a similar power. Furthermore, considering the run times, one of the generators which have a roughly same power output, with the highest autonomy, is the Westinghouse iGen5000DF, as it provides around 15 hours.
- Autonomy holds its importance, however, it is largely dependent on the generator’s fuel capacity and so, it is nonsensible to discuss it without mentioning fuel efficiency as well. Among generators of similar power, this inverter generator stands out with a better fuel efficiency than most, with consumption rates around 0.26 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load. If you're placing a high priority on fuel consumption, the Pulsar PGD40iSCO, with a low fuel consumption rate of 0.22 GPH, could be an option to consider.
Here's a list of the most popular specific comparisons:
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 3000-4000W dual fuel inverter generators, the WEN DF451i 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
- Electric start
- Parallel capable
- Auto Fuel Selection technology
- Inverter
- Quiet for its power (58 dBA)
- Fuel efficient
- Decent weight (100 lbs)
- Decent run time
- No remote 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, Electric |
| 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, overload and low fuel protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Funnel, tool kit, propane hose, and battery |
| UPC | 044459004516 |
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 DF451i 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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