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Description
Zoom on the Westinghouse WGen12000DF
In a nutshell, the Westinghouse WGen12000DF is a powerful portable generator mostly geared towards:
- Professionals who want to be able to deliver results, even during a power failure
- Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
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
The dual-fuel technology of the Westinghouse WGen12000DF allows for an output of 120/240V and provides superb power and versatility. If gasoline-powered, the device provides a running wattage of 12,000W and a starting wattage of 15,000W. If propane-powered, it gives 10,800 rated watts and 13,500 starting watts.
Enjoying a noise rating of 74 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a dishwasher), this generator gets running thanks to a convenient and easy-to-use electric starter (battery included). For additional convenience, the WGen12000DF may also be remotely started (key fob included).
Regarding its running time, the WGen12000DF, with a 10.5 gallons fuel capacity can operate for around 11 hours at 50% load with a full tank of gasoline (fuel consumption around 0.95 GPH). When using propane, it can run for around 7 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.67 GPH).
The WGen12000DF generates a clean sine wave: providing <5% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), delicate electronics can be plugged in its AC outlets safely.
Outlets
The control panel features the upcoming 7 AC outlets:
It also sports 2 DC outlets: there's two 5V USB ports allowing you to conveniently charge electronics such as mobile phones and tablets.
This Westinghouse generator features an L5-30R receptacle, enabling an easy RV connection via an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor. However, it is still not quite RV ready. Besides, as the WGen12000DF holds a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, it is transfer switch ready: you'll easily be able to connect it to your breaker box to power your home during a power outage.
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 a conventional, open frame design, of the following dimensions: L34 x W31 x H35 in, which offers support and allows it to be raised above ground level. The device has been designed for tough environments and demanding outdoor use.
Since the generator weighs 352 lbs, it will be incredibly difficult to manually lift it and transport it, even though it is technically considered to 'be portable' (in the sense that it is movable). Nevertheless, it can still be moved quite conveniently with the help of its wheel kit and its folding handle, once it is placed on the ground.
The generator comes with an additional safety feature, a lift hook on the top of its frame, which is helpful during its transport, loading and unloading.
Features
The WGen12000DF's control panel
The control panel of the WGen12000DF includes a convenient meter, which displays voltage, frequency and lifetime hours, helpful for 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.
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 Westinghouse WGen12000DF also comes with some accessories: key fob, propane hose, battery charger, tool kit, oil and funnel are included.
Emissions
The Westinghouse WGen12000DF is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. Therefore, its sale and purchase are permitted in all of the 50 states, including California.
Moreover, it features a spark arrestor, which makes it suitable for use in forested areas.
Product Videos
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 dual fuel generators of similar power (between 10000 and 14000 W).
- As its dry weight is 352 pounds, the Westinghouse WGen12000DF is one of the heavier of the dual fuel products which can generate 10000 to 14000 running watts. Regarding dry weight, one of the champions in the same power range is the Pulsar PG13000BRCO, with a dry weight of only 231 lbs.
- Since this generator is rated for a lowest possible noise of 74 dBA, it can be considered as one of the most quiet of the products generating similar power.
- With a run time of around 11 hours at 50% load, the WGen12000DF has one of the highest run times, compared to its similarly powerful peers.
- Run times are important, yet thanks to their dependence on the fuel capacity, they should be judged along with the fuel consumption of the device. This generator is one of the most fuel efficient models of the aforementioned output range, as its estimated fuel consumption reaches just 0.95 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load.
Price comparison
As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 10000-14000W dual fuel 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
- GFCI Outlets
- Remote start
- Dual Fuel
- Clean sine wave
- Smart Switch Ready
- Quiet for its power (74 dBA)
- High run time
- Fuel efficient
- 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 | 12,000 W | 10,800 W |
| Starting watts | 15,000 W | 13,500 W |
| Running amps (@120/240V) | 100/50 amps | 90/45 amps |
| Peak amps (@120/240V) | 125/62.5 amps | 112.5/56.3 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 11 h | 7 h |
| Run time @25% load | 16 h | 10 h |
| GFCI outlets | Yes |
|---|---|
| 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% |
| Compliance | 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 |
| UPC | 853544008304 |
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. Portable generators – the main product of the Outdoor Power Equipment branch of Westinghouse – used to be manufactured by Westpro Power Systems, which was bought in 2016 by Midwest Equipment. 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 | Sump pump (1/2 hp) | 1050 | 2150 |
| Furnace fan (1/2 hp) | 875 | 2350 | |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Clothes dryer | 5400 | 6750 | |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Slow cooker | 270 | 270 | |
| Total | 9587 W | 11062 W | |
| For work | Electric welder | 9000 | 9000 |
| Electric fence (25 miles) | 250 | 250 | |
| Drain cleaner | 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.
How many kilowatts does the Westinghouse 15,000 generator have? (Asked April 27, 2021)
On gasoline, the generator can deliver up to 12k running watts and 15k starting watts.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
Being an off the grid rancher for many years, I have owned many generators(Champion, Cummins/Onan, Generac and WGen9500DF-all with very minor problems). I purchased a Westinghouse WGen12000DF generator in 2020. It lasted 244 hours before it died. Their customer service department had me changing almost every part on the generator until they finally conceded that the generator was defective. It then took them two moths to replace it. The replacement WGen12000DF lasted 202 hours before it died. Now they have me changing parts again(which is not working). I have asked for a refund of the purchase price or I will take legal action. Do not purchase the Westinghouse WGen12000DF.
Short version, tech support sucks, but I was able to get the generator to perform to specs, no thanks to them.
I was on the verge of returning the generator. Generator 5/5. Tech support 0/5 on both the first and second one I received.
I bought the wgen 12000df it has Plenty of power to run my house and then some. The generator works like a charm. It starts with no issues. The push button start works as it should and so does the key fob. I do wish it had a backup recoil start. I like the trickle charger that it comes with.
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 !