Westinghouse WGen9500c - 9500/12500W Portable Generator With Remote Start

The Westinghouse WGen9500c is the newer version of the popular WGen9500. It's a powerful portable generator mostly geared towards:

• Homeowners who wish to power almost all appliances in their house under any circumstances
• Professionals who want to be able to deliver results, even during a power failure
• Homeowners who want to be sure of their ability to power their fridges, cooking tools, heating and lighting equipment during power failures
• RV travellers looking for even more independence

In the sections ahead, the power characteristics, availability of various outlets, the portability, and any additional features of the device shall be discussed.

Power & Run Time

The Westinghouse WGen9500c

With a 457 cc (13.5 hp) Westinghouse OHV 4-stroke engine with cast iron sleeve, the Westinghouse WGen9500c operates on gasoline, providing 120/240V, with a running wattage of 9,500W and a starting wattage of 12,500W.

With a noise rating of 74 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a vacuum cleaner), the generator features a simple traditional pull-start mechanism, but also a practical and straightforward electric starter (battery included). To increase convenience, the WGen9500c offers remote starting functionality, allowing for easy operation from a distance (key fob included).

Thanks to its 6.6 gallons fuel tank, the WGen9500c can run continuously for up to 12 hours on a full tank (with an average fuel consumption of approximately 0.55 GPH).

Since the WGen9500c has a high THD (<23%), it is advisable to not use it for the powering of sensitive electronic devices.

Outlets

The control panel features the following 6 AC outlets:

Moreover, it boasts 2 DC outlets: there's two 5V USB ports (USB-A) designed for hassle-free charging of various electronic devices such as smartphones and tablets, ensuring uninterrupted usage.

With its 14-50R outlet, this Westinghouse unit is RV-ready for owners with a 50-amp service in their RVs. In addition, due to the featured twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, the WGen9500c is transfer switch ready: you may connect it to a breaker box to power your household during a power outage.

Westinghouse's ST Switch Outlet

The ST Switch outlet

The WGen9500c 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 WGen9500c 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

Measuring L27.2 x W26.1 x H26.5 in, the Westinghouse WGen9500c showcases a classic open frame layout, offering stability and simple maintenance access to components, while facilitating air circulation. The design is ideal for rough environments and demanding 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 209.1 lbs. Nevertheless, it can still be moved quite conveniently with the help of its wheel kit (⌀10") and its folding handle, once it is placed on the ground.

Features

The WGen9500c's control panel

The WGen9500c and its control panel include a convenient meter, which displays voltage, frequency and lifetime hours. This feature comes handy when monitoring its status and activity.

A built-in fuel gauge allows for a quick, easy and convenient check of the fuel level of the generator.

Considering security aspects, the generator boasts an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), offering peace of mind throughout operation.

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.

Apart from the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to facilitate setup, the Westinghouse WGen9500c features extra accessories: oil, key fob, battery charger, tool kit and funnel. The official storage cover and running cover are also available, as separate purchases.