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Description
Zoom on the Westinghouse WGen12000DF
In summary, the Westinghouse WGen12000DF is a powerful portable generator especially useful for:
- Professionals who want to ensure that a power failure will not prevent them from working
- Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
In the sections ahead, the power characteristics, availability of various outlets, the portability, and any additional features of the device shall be discussed, including its emission compliance information.
Power & Run Time
The Westinghouse WGen12000DF
With its dual-fuel technology, the powerful and versatile Westinghouse WGen12000DF provides an output of 120/240V. While gasoline-powered, it gives a running wattage of 12000W along with a peak wattage of 15000W. While propane-powered, it provides 10800 rated watts and 13500 starting watts.
Enjoying a noise rating of 74 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a vacuum cleaner), this generator gets running thanks to a simple and elegant electric starter (battery included). For additional convenience, the WGen12000DF may also be remotely started (key fob included).
With a fuel capacity of 10.5 gallons, the WGen12000DF can operate for up to 16 hours using gasoline (fuel consumption around 0.95 GPH), or for up to 10 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.47 GPH) using propane.
Sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets, as the WGen12000DF produces a clean sine wave, with a <5% Total Harmonic Disruption (THD).
Outlets
The control panel features the upcoming 7 AC outlets:
In addition, it provides 2 DC outlets: there's two 5V USB ports with which you may charge electronics, for example mobile phones or tablets, conveniently.
Even if this Westinghouse generator isn't quite RV Ready, it still allows for an easy RV connection via an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor, thanks to its L5-30R receptacle. Besides, as it features a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, the WGen12000DF is transfer switch ready: in case of a power outage, you will be easily able to connect it to a breaker box and power your household.
Westinghouse's ST Switch Outlet
The ST Switch outlet
The WGen12000DF is what Westinghouse calls Smart Switch Ready. This means that it features a special outlet that allows for an automatic transfer of power in case of a power outage.
To benefit from this feature, you'll need the Westinghouse ST Switch (opens in a new tab), which is not included with the generator.
Simply put, the ST Switch is a cost-effective and versatile portable automatic transfer switch, which can be installed quickly and easily, without an electrician.
Plug the ST Switch into one of your household 120V outlets, plug your appliances to the ST Switch, and connect the WGen12000DF to the ST Switch via the special outlet and a 120V cord. The generator will automatically turn on when the power goes out, and automatically turn off when the power returns.
Portability
The Westinghouse WGen12000DF has the following dimensions: L34 x W31 x H35 in. In combination with its conventional, open frame design, they provide support and allow the generator to be raised above ground level. The device has been designed for tough environments and demanding outdoor use.
Even though this device may be technically portable (as in movable), manipulation and transportation without special equipment can be a challenge, as it weighs 352 pounds. However, its challenging mobility is solved by its wheel kit and its folding handle, which will ease its displacement, once it is on the floor.
In addition, the device is equipped with a lift hook on the top of its frame, which provides extra safety during the loading, unloading and transport of the generator.
Features
The WGen12000DF's control panel
The WGen12000DF's control center features a convenient meter, which displays voltage, frequency and lifetime hours to aid you with the monitoring of its status and activity.
A built-in fuel gauge allows for a quick, easy and convenient check of the fuel level of the generator.
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.
While the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), helpful for starting the device promptly, come with the Westinghouse WGen12000DF, the following accessories are also included: funnel, key fob, oil, propane hose, tool kit and battery charger.
Emissions
The Westinghouse WGen12000DF 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.
The Westinghouse WGen12000DF versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Westinghouse WGen12000DF compare to generators of similar power (between 10000 and 14000 W).
- At a dry weight of 352 pounds, the Westinghouse WGen12000DF is one of the heavier devices which can produce between 10000 and 14000 running watts. Regarding dry weight, one of the champions in the same power range is the A-iPower SUA13000EFI, with a dry weight of only 218 lbs.
- Since this generator is rated for a lowest possible noise of 74 dBA, it can be considered as one of the more quiet of the products generating similar power. For those who are looking for a less noisy device, we suggest the A-iPower SUA13000EFI. With just 69 dBA, it is one of the most quiet devices in this power range.
- As the WGen12000DF offers around 11 hours run time on a full tank at a 50% load, it falls within the average autonomy range among the generators of a similar power. Concerning the run times, one of the several devices with a comparable output, offering the highest autonomy, is the Powerhorse 13000ES, which is able to run for around 15 hours.
- The run time is important, but also hugely depends on the capacity of the fuel tank and doesn't mean much if we don't talk about fuel consumption as well. This generator can be considered as fuel efficient, due to its low estimated fuel consumption of only 0.95 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load, within the aforementioned wattage range. If you wish to further improve in the area of fuel efficiency, the A-iPower SUA13000EFI, which boasts with a gas consumption of only 0.78 GPH, may be the right generator for you.
Price comparison
As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 10000-14000W generators, the Westinghouse WGen12000DF 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
- Several accessories included
- Remote start
- Dual Fuel
- Clean sine wave
- Smart Switch Ready
- Quiet for its power (74 dBA)
- Fuel efficient
- Decent run time
- No recoil back-up
- On the heavy side (352 lbs)
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Portable | Yes |
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Dual Fuel (gasoline/propane) |
| Engine | 713 cc Westinghouse V-Twin |
| Starting system | Electric, Remote |
| Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz, DC: 5V |
| Gasoline | Propane | |
|---|---|---|
| Running watts | 12000 W | 10800 W |
| Starting watts | 15000 W | 13500 W |
| Running amps (@120/240V) | 100/50 amps | 90/45 amps |
| Peaks amps (@120/240V) | 125/62.5 amps | 112.5/56.3 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 11 h | 6 h |
| Run time @25% load | 16 h | 10 h |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | 2x 5V USB port |
| Data center | VFT |
| Indicators | No |
| Fuel tank | Steel, 10.5 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 352 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 34 x 31 x 35 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 74 dBA |
| THD | < 5% |
| Emissions | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Bonded to frame |
| Accessories included | Oil, funnel, tool kit, key fob, battery charger, propane hose, battery, and wheel kit |
| Warranty | 3 years |
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 Westinghouse
The US based Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment is a legacy subsidiary of the Westinghouse Electric Corporation, founded in 1886. While the company has been acquired and merged into the American CBS, the Westinghouse name remains as the brand name for many of their electrical solutions, which stretch across the scale from power plants to portable generators – which are the main product of the Outdoor Power Equipment branch of Westinghouse. Lawn equipment, such as trimmers and blowers, is also sold under the Westinghouse brand name. All of their products are designed in the US. However, several sources report that they are in many cases manufactured in China.
Warranty Information
The Westinghouse WGen12000DF 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 Westinghouse generators, please consult Westinghouse's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-855-944-3571.
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Microwave (1000 watts) | 1500 | 1500 |
| AC (10,000 BTU) | 1500 | 2200 | |
| Dish washer | 1500 | 3000 | |
| Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Sump pump (1/2 hp) | 1050 | 2150 | |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Electric range | 2100 | 2100 | |
| Satelite receiver | 250 | 250 | |
| Total | 9592 W | 11092 W | |
| For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Electric grill | 1650 | 1650 | |
| Microwave (1000 watts) | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 | |
| Rice cooker | 650 | 650 | |
| Total | 9590 W | 10180 W | |
| For work | Electric welder | 9000 | 9000 |
| Drain cleaner | 250 | 250 | |
| Electric fence (25 miles) | 250 | 250 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 9580 W | 9580 W |
Does the WGEN12000DF generator have a backup recoil starter? Does the above model utilize an oil filter and what is the part number? (Asked August 06, 2020)
The V-Twin engine of the WGen12000DF does not have a backup recoil starter. The unit does utilize an oil filter, part number 180738.
Are the household receptacles (5-20R) the only receptacles with GFCI Protection? If the neutral is changed from bonded to floating, will the household receptacle's GFCI still function properly? (Asked October 16, 2020)
Correct. Only the two 5-20R duplexes are with GFCI protection. Removing the bonded neutral may not allow proper operation of the GFCI receptacles.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
Purchased new July 2020. 15000/12000 watt capacity perfect size, fit & finish very good. Generator would start, speed up & then stop. Would not run. Returned to Westinghouse for refund.
Generator would not run. Westinghouse tech support was AWFUL !