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Description
Zoom on the Westinghouse WGen9500DF
In a nutshell, the Westinghouse WGen9500DF is a powerful portable generator mostly geared towards:
- Small homeowners in search of a full power backup solution
- Professionals who want to be able to deliver results, even during a power failure
The following sections will present you in detail its power characteristics, the different outlets it offers, its overall portability, the extra features it benefits from, and any relevant emission compliance details.
Power & Run Time
The Westinghouse WGen9500DF
The dual-fuel technology of the Westinghouse WGen9500DF allows for an output of 120/240V and provides superb power and versatility. If gasoline-powered, the device provides a running wattage of 9500W and a starting wattage of 12500W. If propane-powered, it gives 8500 rated watts and 11200 starting watts.
With a noise rating of 74 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a dishwasher), the generator features a simple traditional pull-start mechanism, but also a convenient and easy-to-use electric starter (battery included). Moreover, to offer you even more convenience, the WGen9500DF can also be remotely started (key fob included).
With a fuel capacity of 6.6 gallons, the WGen9500DF can operate for up to 17.5 hours using gasoline (fuel consumption around 0.38 GPH), or for up to 11 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.43 GPH) using propane.
The quite high THD (<23%) of the WGen9500DF makes it unsuitable for powering sensitive electronic devices.
Outlets
The control panel features the following 6 AC outlets:
As the WGen9500DF 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 WGen9500DF 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 WGen9500DF 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 WGen9500DF has a conventional, open frame design, of the following dimensions: L27.2 x W26.1 x H26.5 in, which offers support and allows it to be raised above ground level. 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 211 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 WGen9500DF's control panel
The WGen9500DF 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.
The fuel level of the generator can be determined quickly, easily, and conveniently with the help of its built-in fuel gauge.
As far as security is concerned, the generator can be used with a peace of mind, as it features an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker).
While the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), helpful for starting the device promptly, come with the Westinghouse WGen9500DF, the following accessories are also included: battery charger, propane hose, key fob, oil, funnel and tool kit. An official storage cover is also available, as a separate purchase.
Emissions
The Westinghouse WGen9500DF is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. It can therefore be sold and purchased in all 50 states, including California.
Moreover, it features a spark arrestor, so it is adequate for use in forested areas.
Product Videos
The Westinghouse WGen9500DF versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Westinghouse WGen9500DF compare to generators of similar power (between 9000 and 10000 W).
- Regarding its weight, the Westinghouse WGen9500DF only weighs in at 211 pounds, which means it's one of the lighter generators in the 9000-10000 rated wattage range. In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the Rainier R12000DF, standing at just 196 lbs.
- This generator has a somewhat average expected noise for its power range, rated at 74 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 A-iPower SUA13000EFI, whose lowest noise levels reach just 69 dBA.
- Since the WGen9500DF boasts with a run time of up to 17.5 hours at 25% load, it can be safely judged as one of the devices with the highest run time among those of a comparable output.
- 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, with an estimated fuel consumption of just 0.38 GPH (gallon per hour) at 25% load, is one of the most fuel efficient generators, for the previously mentioned wattage range.
Here's a list of the most popular specific comparisons:
Price comparison
As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 9000-10000W generators, the Westinghouse WGen9500DF 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
- GFCI Outlets
- Remote start
- Dual Fuel
- Smart Switch Ready
- Lightweight for its kind (211 lbs)
- High run time
- Fuel efficient
- Acceptable noise (74 dBA)
The Westinghouse WGen9500DF doesn't have any notably low specs.
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Portable | Yes |
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Dual Fuel (gasoline/propane) |
| Engine | 457 cc Westinghouse OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil, Electric, Remote |
| Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz |
| Gasoline | Propane | |
|---|---|---|
| Running watts | 9500 W | 8500 W |
| Starting watts | 12500 W | 11200 W |
| Running amps (@120/240V) | 79.2/39.6 amps | 70.8/35.4 amps |
| Peak amps (@120/240V) | 104.2/52.1 amps | 93.3/46.7 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 12 h | 7 h |
| Run time @25% load | 17.5 h | 11 h |
| GFCI outlets | Yes |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | No |
| Data center | VFT |
| Indicators | No |
| Fuel tank | Steel, 6.6 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 211 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 27.2 x 26.1 x 26.5 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 74 dBA |
| THD | < 23% |
| 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 | 853544008298 |
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 WGen9500DF 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 |
| Microwave (1000 watts) | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 | |
| AC (10,000 BTU) | 1500 | 2200 | |
| Sump pump (1/2 hp) | 1050 | 2150 | |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Slow cooker | 270 | 270 | |
| Set of 5 LED light bulbs | 55 | 55 | |
| Total | 7567 W | 9067 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 | |
| Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Set of 5 LED light bulbs | 55 | 55 | |
| Total | 7595 W | 8185 W | |
| For work | Table saw | 1800 | 4500 |
| Air compressor (1 hp) | 1600 | 6100 | |
| Grinder | 1400 | 2500 | |
| Demolition hammer | 1260 | 1260 | |
| Disc sander | 1200 | 1200 | |
| Electric fence (25 miles) | 250 | 250 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 7590 W | 12090 W |
Is it safe to charge/run delicate equipment such as TV, computers, cell phones? (Asked June 15, 2020)
THD should be under 5% to safely run devices that contain sensitive electronics. This unit's THD is <23%, and thus, too high.
does this gen have idel control? (Asked September 06, 2020)
This unit does not have an idle control feature.
Can it also be converted to natural gas? (Asked September 21, 2020)
There are no official conversion kits.
I understand that you can’t run computers etc. But, is it okay to charge a battery powered laptop since the charger is plugged in to just charge the battery as long as you don’t use the laptop while its charging? (Asked October 21, 2020)
Not if you value the circuitry of your charger. Your laptop works on DC, not on AC.
If run through a 50 amp transfer switch and breakers can you safely use tv, charge cell phones, computers? (Asked November 03, 2020)
A transfer switch does not clean power, it just transfers it.
Does the Westinghouse 9500 have an oil filter? An oil filter I can change when I change oil? (Asked November 03, 2020)
The WGen9500DF does not have an oil filter.
Is it safe to use with computers, laptops, cell phones, etc. if those items are plugged into a high end APC UPS unit in between this source? (Asked November 08, 2020)
It would have to be a double-conversion online UPS (opens in a new tab), which will first convert AC to DC, then DC back to AC.
how to remove bonded neutral (Asked December 10, 2020)
You can follow Westinghouse's guidelines (opens in a new tab) or refer to our article on neutral conversion.
Can this generator be outside during winter snow storms, How low the temperature can be in order to be outside? to storage can be in a non heated garage in winter time? (Asked December 17, 2020)
The unit is rated for operation between 5°F and 104°F. In case of exposure outside of this range during storage, it should be brought back within this range before operation. You may also read our article on rain and snow operation.
What is THD ? (Asked September 07, 2021)
THD stands for Total Harmonic Distortion. The lower the THD, the closer you get to a proper sinewave. You can read more about it in this article.
What size is the propane hose delivered with the generator? can you add an extension hose to the existing hose? What size fittings would the esxtension hose have? (Asked September 15, 2021)
The included propane hose is about 3 ft long. Fittings would have to be 3/8".
If hooking this up to a 250 gallon propane tank at the house supply line, what pressure does the hook up need to be? Or what pressure range does the generator need for supply? (Asked December 10, 2021)
The pressure as measured at the regulator mounted to the generator must be 7” to 14” of water column.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
WGen9500DF (Dual Fuel)
This is an outstanding generator. First, it was difficult to find it in stock at any of the big-box stores over the course of a couple months, let alone Amazon or other smaller vendors. Most of the reviews I read were overwhelmingly positive, and clearly this is an extremely popular generator. Now that I have tested and proven it – – I understand why.
I ordered it mid-April and it arrived first week of June. The generator was in its original cardboard packaging secured by two typical plastic straps and was without any damage or perforations. Upon opening and visual inspection, the contents were present and securely packaged as described by Westinghouse (oil, tool kit, propane hose/regulator, remote FOB, etc.). The manufacturing and serial number information states “Made in Vietnam”.
I hired a local, reputable electric company to install a 50-amp generator receptacle outlet, circuit, and interlock kit on my main breaker panel (required by city code) the day after the generator’s arrival. I prepped the genny prior to the install by following the Owner’s Manual instructions and had no problems (feet, wheels, battery, or oil). It did need just a bit more oil (maybe 3-4 oz.) to top off the oil fill-line. I selected propane for its first fuel, ran it for 5 minutes and then switched to gas. Both were flawless. My wife is able to easily move it as well. I was now ready for the electricians to install the designated outdoor receptacle/circuits/breaker and interlock kit the following day.
Fantastic! Even my electricians were impressed with the features and performance of this generator. It powered my 3.5 ton central A/C and a few other nominal circuits. However, the A/C is not my primary intent, as that was only to see if it could…and it did. I have a portable A/C & heater that I will plug if needed, rather than using central A/C. I also researched each of my circuits to ascertain their wattage usage in order to designate the circuits I would power on for the generator. I printed that spec-sheet and it is affixed to the inside breaker panel for reference when using the generator power. With proper maintenance, I expect to get many years of reliable service from this beast. My previous generator was a 6500-watt electric start which I gave to a friend, and it is still performing well after 12 years. I am very pleased with this WGen9500DF and highly recommend it. Best wishes!
FANTASTIC GENERATOR. ALL PRO’S
Initially bought this about 1.5 years ago. Arrived in good shape and would not start. Turns out the start switch on the panel was faulty based on my testing because it would pull start AND the remote start worked just fine. I called customer service and they offered to send me a new switch. When it arrived I realized pulling that panel out was a pain and I did not want to mess up the wiring in any way so they authorized repair center to do work. I have to haul it there (in my city) which was a pain because this is heavy. They repaired switch and it worked fine. Always easy to start, worked on both fuels. Was happy. Up until then I only used 20A outlets and the 30A outlet. I wired in backup to my house and switched to the 50A outlet and only one side was hot. The outlet was not functioning! I did not find this out until about 1 year into ownership and customer service said “tough luck”. I told them it had just been serviced and perhaps the service center damaged the wiring? Still no help. I decided to tear apart panel myself and sure enough found a connecter was disconnected for a logic board.I put it together an now works fine. So, overall this is a lot of power and seems to work well but only after I diagnosed it and messed with it myself. Quality control and customer support could be better. Test EVERYTHING when you buy it thoroughly and I bet they will stand by it, but after 1 year even probelms that they created they will not help with.
It dies does not want to start up! Right out of the box did not start up. tied 10 times. took it to an authorized dealer they said it was fixed and I had to PAY! Still new? They said carb was dirty and not enough oil. I put exactly what was in the box! Drove 30 minutes did not start up. was called again ready to pick up. Again it did not work! Want my money back! There are issues with this machine per the repair place! DO NOT BUY
After Houston, TX experienced a freeze in February that left my house without power for two full days, I did some quick research and when demand eased a bit, I bought the WGen9500DF. Very pleased that it runs my central A/C (3 tons) and everything else in my house.
I’ve seen a couple of reviews with complaints about starting issues, etc. Mine started the very first time, and has started easily every time. I’d guess I’ve fired it up a dozen times, maybe more.
Actually needed it about 2 weeks ago when a thunderstorm cut power to my neighborhood for a couple of hours. Gives great peace of mind knowing I can depend on this generator in times when I cannot depend on the grid.
I’ve liked everything about the generator so far. I’ve used it maybe 5 times in 2 years for a total of 25 hours run time. I tested it on both fuels when I first purchased it but under real conditions, I’ve only run it on propane. Didn’t want to end up with gas left in the tank. This was purchased to run the entire house, except for the central air conditioning so I use the 50 AMP outlet. I purchased a Conntek GIB1450-025 Duo-Rain Seal 50Amp Power Inlet Box and Temp Power Cord Combo Kit, 25 Feet. Installed a lock out in my main breaker box and a 50 AMP breaker. No problems with the installation. The power cord is STW 6/3 + 8/1. In the process of getting 2-100 lbs. propane tanks and setting them up with quick disconnects to be able to quickly get the generator up and running when needed.
Now for the dislike. This is more of an inconvenience than anything. If you look at the location of the 50 AMP outlet on the generator, you’ll notice it is right above the wheel. The 50 AMP power cord I purchased is at a 90 Degree angle which is fine with me, less strain on the cord. The cord is so stiff that in order for the plug to stay attached to the generator I have to take the wheel off so the power cord hangs free. If you’re going to use the 50 AMP outlet and can find a power cord that is 45 Degrees on the male end, you’ll save yourself time when hooking up the generator. I haven’t found one. Not sure if it’s even made. Other than that, the generator is everything it was advertised as.