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Description
Zoom on the Westinghouse WGen5300c
In summary, the Westinghouse WGen5300c is a compact portable generator especially useful for:
- RV travellers looking for even more independence
- People occasionally participating in outdoor fairs, festivals or events
- Food truck owners who do not wish to see their business interrupted under any circumstances
- 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 WGen5300c's design includes a gasoline-fueled 274 cc OHV 4-stroke engine. With a 120/240V output, it gives a running wattage of 5300W and also a peak wattage of 6600W.
The generator features a simple traditional pull-start mechanism and also a simple and elegant electric starter (battery included). It is rated for a noise of 68 dBA (less noisy than an office). To add further convenience, the WGen5300c can be remotely started (key fob included).
With a full tank, the WGen5300c can operate for around 11 hours at 50% load (fuel consumption around 0.43 GPH), thanks to its fuel capacity of 4.7 gallons.
The quite high THD (<23%) of the WGen5300c makes it unsuitable for powering sensitive electronic devices.
Outlets
The control panel provides the upcoming 4 AC outlets:
This Westinghouse generator is RV Ready, as it features a TT-30R receptacle (TT stands for 'Travel Trailer'). In addition, because the WGen5300c 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.
Westinghouse's ST Switch Outlet

The ST Switch outlet
The WGen5300c 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 WGen5300c 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 design of the Westinghouse WGen5300c is a typical, open frame, with the dimensions of L23.2 x W20.1 x H19.1 in, offering support and stability and enabling the possibility of raising it above ground level. The design is ideal for rough 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 136.6 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.
Features
To help you monitor the WGen5300c's status and activity, its control panel is equipped with a digital data center, giving you information on the frequency, voltage and lifetime run hours.
Thanks to a built-in fuel gauge, the generator allows you to quickly, conveniently and easily check the gas level at a glance.
As far as security is concerned, the generator can be used with a peace of mind, as it features an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off.
It also includes a carbon monoxide sensor. This sensor is designed to monitor the level of carbon monoxide present during the generator's operation. If the generator is positioned incorrectly and carbon monoxide levels rise to an unsafe level, the generator will automatically shut down. It’s a welcomed additional security feature, but don’t forget to always take your generator outside (opens in a new tab).
Besides the classic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to get you promptly started, the Westinghouse WGen5300c also comes with some accessories: oil, battery charger, funnel, tool kit and key fob are included. An official storage cover is also available, as a separate purchase.
Emissions
The Westinghouse WGen5300c 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 Video
The Westinghouse WGen5300c versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Westinghouse WGen5300c compare to generators of similar power (between 4500 and 5500 W).
- Regarding its weight, the Westinghouse WGen5300c only weighs in at 136.6 pounds, which means it's one of the lighter generators in the 4500-5500 rated wattage range. If you are concerned by weight, one of the champions in the above-mentioned power range is the Genmax GM6000XiE, with a dry weight of just 106.9 pounds.
- The generator can be considered average in its noise for its power category, as it is rated at 68 dBA. If you’d prefer a less noisy device, one of the most quiet devices, which share the same power range with this one, is the Honda EU7000iS, whose lowest noise levels reach just 52 dBA.
- Given that the WGen5300c reaches an autonomy of around 11 hours with a full tank and at 50% load, it is placed within the average autonomy range of similarly powerful generators. Furthermore, considering the run times, one of the generators which have a roughly same power output, with the highest autonomy, is the Westinghouse WGen5500, as it provides 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 can be considered as fuel efficient, due to its low estimated fuel consumption of only 0.43 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load, within the aforementioned wattage range. If not satisfied with the afore-mentioned fuel consumption, you may wish to check out the Genmax GM5500i. With a fuel consumption of as little as 0.41 GPH, it is one of the most efficient generators currently on the market.
Price comparison
As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 4500-5500W generators, the Westinghouse WGen5300c 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
- CO Sensor
- Several accessories included
- RV Ready
- Remote start
- Smart Switch Ready
- Lightweight for its kind (136.6 lbs)
- Fuel efficient
- Acceptable noise (68 dBA)
- Decent run time
The Westinghouse WGen5300c doesn't have any notably low specs.
Features and Specifications
Inverter | No |
---|---|
Portable | Yes |
Parallel capable | No |
RV ready | Yes |
Fuel | Gasoline |
Engine | 274 cc OHV 4-stroke |
Starting system | Recoil, Electric, Remote |
Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz |
---|---|
Running watts | 5300 W |
Starting watts | 6600 W |
Running amps (@120/240V) | 44.2/22.1 amps |
Peak amps (@120/240V) | 55/27.5 amps |
Run time @50% load | 11 h |
Run time @25% load | Unknown |
GFCI outlets | No |
---|---|
Covered outlets | Yes |
Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
AC outlets |
|
DC outlets | No |
Data center | Lifetime run hours, voltage and frequency |
Indicators | No |
Fuel tank | 4.7 gal |
Fuel gauge | Yes |
Weight | 136.6 lbs |
---|---|
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 23.2 x 20.1 x 19.1 in |
Noise (lower limit) | 68 dBA |
THD | < 23% |
Compliance | CARB, EPA |
Security | Low oil and overload protection, CO monitoring |
Spark arrestor | Yes |
Neutral | Floating |
Accessories included | Oil, funnel, tool kit, key fob, battery charger, battery, and wheel kit |
Warranty | 3 years |
UPC | 850011336748 |
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 WGen5300c 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 | Dish washer | 1500 | 3000 |
AC (10,000 BTU) | 1500 | 2200 | |
Sump pump (1/2 hp) | 1050 | 2150 | |
Security system | 180 | 180 | |
Total | 4230 W | 5730 W | |
For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
Toaster oven | 800 | 800 | |
Blender | 400 | 850 | |
Pair of small speakers | 45 | 45 | |
Total | 4235 W | 4825 W | |
For work | Table saw | 1800 | 4500 |
Grinder | 1400 | 2500 | |
Paint sprayer | 600 | 600 | |
Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
Total | 3880 W | 6580 W |
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.