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Description
Zoom on the WEN GN875i
In summary, the WEN GN875i is a powerful portable inverter generator especially useful for:
- Food truck owners who want to ensure that their business is fully self-contained and does not rely on potentially unreliable external power
- 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
- RV travellers wishing to enhance their freedom and nomad lifestyle
In the following paragraphs, we shall explore the power characteristics, available outlets, portability, and any additional features of the device, along with its emission compliance information.
Power & Run Time
The WEN GN875i is powered by a 420 cc OHV 4-stroke engine. It delivers 120/240V, runs on gasoline and offers a running wattage of 7,000W as well as a peak wattage of 8,750W.
This inverter generator can be started via a simple traditional pull-start mechanism, or a convenient and easy-to-use electric starter (battery included).
With a fuel capacity of 4.2 gallons, the GN875i may run for around 6.7 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.63 GPH).
Sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets, as the GN875i produces a clean sine wave, with a <1.5% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).
Outlets
The control panel features the upcoming 6 AC outlets:
It also sports 2 DC outlets: there's two 5V USB ports with which charging of electronics like mobile phones and tablets is made convenient.
Thanks to its TT-30R receptacle (TT stands for 'Travel Trailer'), this WEN generator is RV Ready. In addition, because the GN875i 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
The design of the WEN GN875i is a typical, open frame, with the dimensions of L26.8 x W26.4 x H23.2 in, offering support and stability and enabling the possibility of raising it above ground level. The generator is designed for ideal use outdoors and in rough environments.
Even though this device may be technically portable (as in movable), manipulation and transportation without special equipment can be a challenge, as it weighs 136.7 pounds. However, this lack of maneuverability is compensated by its set of wheels and its folding handle, with which you can conveniently shift it, once it's on the ground.
Features
The control panel of the GN875i includes a convenient meter showing you voltage, frequency and lifetime hours, helpful for the monitoring of its status and activity.
In addition to this info, the device’s light indicators will display if the oil level is too low, the generator is ready and the generator is on overload.
The inverter generator includes a built-in fuel gauge, a quick, easy and convenient method of checking the device’s gas level.
From a security standpoint, the product offers an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, allowing you to use it with a peace of mind.
Besides the classic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to get you promptly started, the WEN GN875i also comes with some accessories: 2 altitude kits and tool kit are included. An official storage cover is also available, as a separate purchase.
Emissions
The WEN GN875i is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. Thus, selling and purchasing this generator is allowed in each of the 50 states, including California.
Moreover, it features a spark arrestor, making it usable in forested areas.
Product Videos
The WEN GN875i versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the WEN GN875i compare to generators of similar power (between 6500 and 7500 W).
- Regarding its weight, the WEN GN875i only weighs in at 136.7 pounds, which means it's one of the lighter generators in the 6500-7500 rated wattage range. In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the Sportsman GEN85KIDF, standing at just 133 lbs.
- Regarding its autonomy, the autonomy of the GN875i, reaching around 6.7 hours at a 50% load, can be considered as low end, compared to other products of a roughly equal output. If you consider autonomy on a single full tank as one of the deciding factors, one of the generators in the same power range that offers the highest run time is the Predator 9000, with around 13 hours.
- Even though run times are undoubtedly important, they are dependent on the fuel capacity to a large extent. For a more wholesome picture, we must take into consideration the fuel consumption of the generator. This inverter generator, with an estimated fuel consumption of just 0.63 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 Energizer eZV7500, which boasts with a gas consumption of only 0.45 GPH, may be the right generator for you.
Price comparison
As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 6500-7500W inverter generators, the WEN GN875i 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
- Several accessories included
- RV Ready
- Electric start
- Inverter
- Lightweight for its kind (136.7 lbs)
- Fuel efficient
- No 50-amp output
- No remote start
- No parallel ports
- Relatively low run time
Features and Specifications
Inverter | Yes |
---|---|
Parallel capable | No |
RV ready | Yes |
Fuel | Gasoline |
Engine | 420 cc OHV 4-stroke |
Starting system | Recoil, Electric |
Warranty | 2 years |
Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz, DC: 5V |
---|---|
Running watts | 7,000 W |
Starting watts | 8,750 W |
Running amps (@120/240V) | 58.3/29.2 amps |
Peak amps (@120/240V) | 72.9/36.5 amps |
Run time @50% load | 6.7 h |
Run time @25% load | Unknown |
GFCI outlets | No |
---|---|
Covered outlets | Yes |
Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
AC outlets |
|
DC outlets | 2x 5V USB port |
Data center | VFT |
Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
Fuel tank | 4.2 gal |
Fuel gauge | Yes |
Weight | 136.7 lbs |
---|---|
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 26.8 x 26.4 x 23.2 in |
Noise (lower limit) | Unknown |
THD | < 1.5% |
Compliance | CARB, EPA |
Security | Low oil and overload protection |
Spark arrestor | Yes |
Neutral | Floating |
Accessories included | Tool kit, 2 altitude kits, battery, and wheel kit |
UPC | 044459875000 |
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 GN875i 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 | Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 |
AC (10,000 BTU) | 1500 | 2200 | |
Dish washer | 1500 | 3000 | |
Sump pump (1/2 hp) | 1050 | 2150 | |
Pair of small speakers | 45 | 45 | |
Total | 5595 W | 7095 W | |
For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
Electric grill | 1650 | 1650 | |
Toaster oven | 800 | 800 | |
Game console | 150 | 150 | |
Total | 5590 W | 6180 W | |
For work | Table saw | 1800 | 4500 |
Air compressor (1 hp) | 1600 | 6100 | |
Reciprocating saw | 730 | 960 | |
Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
Total | 4210 W | 8710 W |
Can you retrofit a larger fuel tank or add an extended tank. I like the unit but for extended emergency operations it is a very short full tank run time. Didn't see any other options on the Wen site (Asked January 24, 2022)
It could be possible to add an extended tank, but keep in mind that gasoline is gravity-fed.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
First; Generator Bible is a fantastic site for comparing generators to fit your needs. Have owned the WEN GN875i for over a year and have used it several times during power outages lasting hours not days. Performance was great. Purchased it since my old generator is NOT and inverter and does NOT provide clean power for electronics. I decided on the WEN for the value, wattage and clean power. I have both generators in a power vented shed over 30 feet from our home so CO and noise is not a factor. The 4 year old Westinghouse is connected ONLY to our 4 ton air conditioner condensing unit through a transfer switch located by the AC. The WEN is connected to our home load center using an interlock to meet local and national codes. With this arrangement we’re able to power our whole house by limiting total watts of appliances being used simultaneously, since our range and oven are both electric. We do not have any problems with sensitive electronics while cooking as the WEN has handled the load very easily. I created a chart for us to maintain the watts below the stated run max and it isn’t difficult. I CAUTION anyone connecting generators directly to your load center or AC to follow all local and NEC codes to ensure you are legal and safe for you as well as your electric power provider repairmen. I also received approval from our electric provider on the equipment and wiring to be used during outages including 1-line electrical drawings. This takes some time and is absolutely needed in my opinion to be safe and legal. This is all a manual transfer for power during an outage but is far less expensive than an auto standby whole house generator saving us over $11,000. Another benefit is if one generator breaks, we still have one running to power some of our home and the cost to replace the broken is cheap compared to repairing or replacing a whole house generator and being in the dark until that’s completed. Customer service from WEN has been excellent, very easy to connect to the department you need and have always be given the answer or service requested. Buying direct from WEN is available, cheaper with free shipping.