The WEN DF472 is a compact open frame dual fuel generator with a rated wattage of 3,800 W and a starting wattage of 4,750 W. (Read full specs)
ShortlistShortlistedRemoved from shortlist 3
Amazon 
eBay 
Walmart 
Northern Tool Page Content
Description
Zoom on the WEN DF472
In short, the WEN DF472 is a compact portable generator adequately designed for:
- RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level
- People occasionally participating in outdoor fairs, festivals or events
- Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
- Professionals in need of safely powering high-intensity work or lighting equipment
In the upcoming sections, you'll discover its power characteristics, the array of outlets it presents, its overall portability, and the additional features it possesses.
Power & Run Time
Delivering 120/240V, the WEN DF472 is enhanced by dual-fuel technology, providing power and versatility. Running on gasoline, it boasts a running wattage of 3,800W and a starting wattage of 4,750W. Alternatively, when propane-powered, it delivers 3,500 running watts and 4,350 starting watts.
This generator utilizes a traditional recoil pull-start mechanism for startup.
Concerning its running time, the DF472, featuring a 4 gallons fuel tank, can continuously run for around 11 hours at 50% load with a full gasoline tank (consuming fuel at approximately 0.36 gallons per hour). Alternatively, when utilizing propane, it offers around 7 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.67 GPH) of runtime.
Outlets
The control panel provides the upcoming 3 AC outlets:
In addition, it provides 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle enabling simple battery charging for added ease.
Because the DF472 is equipped with a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, it is transfer switch ready: it can power your home during a power outage, as it can be easily connected to your breaker box to power your household.
Portability
At L23.1 x W17.5 x H18.5 in, the traditional open frame structure of the WEN DF472 ensures stability while facilitating convenient maintenance access to components and promoting air cooling. This type of design is ideal for tough environments and heavy outdoor use.
While the generator is considered to be technically 'portable' (in the sense that you can move it), manually lifting and transporting it may be challenging, due to its high weight of 103.2 lbs.
Features
The DF472's control panel
With its built-in fuel gauge, the generator provides quick and convenient gas level checks.
As far as security is concerned, the generator comes with an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, 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 DF472's package also includes these accessories: propane hose and oil.
The WEN DF472 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the WEN DF472 compare to dual fuel generators of similar power (between 3500 and 4500 W).
- At a weight of 103.2 pounds, the WEN DF472 places in the expected weight range of the dual fuel generators in the 3500-4500 rated wattage range. Weight-conscious users may find the WEN DF402iX appealing, as it is one of the top contenders in this power range, weighing just 66.1 pounds.
- With a runtime of around 11 hours under a 50% load on a full tank, the DF472 falls within the average autonomy range among the dual fuel generators of a similar power. If autonomy is your priority, one of the devices of a similar power output with the highest run time is the Westinghouse iGen4500DF, 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 generator has an average fuel consumption among comparably powerful devices, as it reaches 0.36 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 50% load. If gasoline efficiency is at the top of your list, you may want to have a look at the Westinghouse iGen4500DF, which has great fuel efficiency, with a gas consumption of only 0.23 gallons per hour.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 3500-4500W dual fuel generators, the WEN DF472 is on the cheap side of the price range.
It can therefore be a really good buy if you're looking to acquire a budget generator.
The bottom line
- Inexpensive
- Dual Fuel
- Several accessories included
- GFCI Outlets
- Decent weight (103.2 lbs)
- Decent run time
- Decent fuel efficiency
- No data center
- No electric start
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Dual Fuel (gasoline/propane) |
| Engine | 224 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
| Gasoline | Propane | |
|---|---|---|
| Running watts | 3,800 W | 3,500 W |
| Starting watts | 4,750 W | 4,350 W |
| Running amps (@120/240V) | 31.7/15.8 amps | 29.2/14.6 amps |
| Peak amps (@120/240V) | 39.6/19.8 amps | 36.3/18.1 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 11 h | 7 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | Yes |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | 1x 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | No |
| Fuel tank | 4 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 103.2 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 23.1 x 17.5 x 18.5 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | Unknown |
| THD | Unknown |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Bonded to frame |
| Accessories included | Oil and propane hose |
| UPC | 044459994725 |
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 DF472 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 | AC (10,000 BTU) | 1500 | 2200 |
| Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Total | 3000 W | 3700 W | |
| For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Pair of small speakers | 45 | 45 | |
| Total | 3035 W | 3625 W | |
| For work | Table saw | 1800 | 4500 |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 1880 W | 4580 W |
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
