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WEN 56200i Inverter Generator:

The Complete Buyer’s Guide

an image showing the WEN 56200i Inverter Generator

an image showing the WEN 56200i Inverter Generator

WEN 56200i Specs

Model Number:

56200i

 

Fuel Tank:

1 Gallon

Power Source:

Gasoline

 

Half-Load Runtime:

6 Hours

Start Type:

Recoil Start

 

Fuel Consumption (Full Load):

.25 Gallons/Hour

Engine:

79.7cc

 

No. of Outlets:

x4

Horsepower:

2 HP

 

Carb Compliant:

Yes

Running Wattage:

1600W

 

Dimensions:

18″ x 11″ x 18″

Surge Wattage:

2000W

 

Weight:

48 LBS

What’s Included?
  • 1x Oil Funnel
  • 1x Spark Plug Wrench
  • 1x Flathead Screwdriver
  • 1x Owner’s Manual
Detailed Info

Did you know that there were 3,236 power outages in the United States in 2013? Unfortunately, it’s a growing problem too, with this figure being 15% higher than the total experienced in 2012.

It shouldn’t come as a surprise really – population growth shows no sign of slowing, and when combined with our seemingly-unsatisfiable need for the latest and shiniest piece of consumer electronics, it’s no wonder our already struggling electrical grid is groaning under the strain.

(Don’t expect things to get better anytime soon either, as it has been estimated that it could cost almost $5 trillion to replace the United State’s aging power infrastructure!)

If you’re lucky enough to be semi-prepared for the next (inevitable) power cut, you’ll probably have the usual supply of flashlights, batteries, and candles at the ready. All well and good – but they can only get you so far.

You won’t be able to power up the majority of the things you rely on a daily basis using batteries alone. No computer. No television. No access to a working fridge freezer, meaning you’ll inevitably need to throw out a lot of expensive food if the power cut lasts long enough and if you don’t have access to an alternative power source.

Thankfully, there is a smarter option: the WEN 56200i inverter generator.

image of the wen 56200i 2000 watt inverter generator being carried

The WEN 56200i could be your answer to not only minimizing disruption during power cuts, but it’s also an ideal source of supplementary power for anyone from campers to construction workers.

But is it the right choice for you?

Let’s find out by looking at everything you need to know about the WEN 56200i inverter generator…


Conventional Generators vs Inverter Generators

Before discussing the WEN 56200i in detail, it’s probably a good idea to explain the differences between an inverter generator like the WEN and a conventional generator.

Conventional generators have been around for much longer, and hence tend to be more widely used than inverter generators. Standard generators can run on gasoline, diesel or propane/LPG, and they usually aren’t very complicated, consisting mainly of a motor which is attached to an alternator to produce electricity. The motor itself usually runs at as constant a speed as possible to provide a non-fluctuating electrical output.

Inverter generators are a relatively recent development. They’re similar to conventional generators in that they produce an AC voltage output, however, where they’re different is that the AC output produced is converted to a DC voltage, and then changed back to a clean AC voltage.

The main advantage of converting to DC before changing back to AC is that it is very effective at eliminating power fluctuations, making it possible to run complex electronics from the power generated – something it wouldn’t be advisable to do with a conventional generator.

Here are a few other advantages of inverter generators:

  • They’re usually lighter and smaller, making them easier to transport and store.
  • They’re typically much more fuel efficient than conventional generators.
  • They’re often much quieter during use.

Who It’s Aimed At

An inverter generator like the WEN 56200i will likely appeal to a wide array of users given the fact that it provides power when it’s needed most. Here are a few examples:

  • Homeowners experiencing a powercut
  • Anyone going on a particularly long car journey
  • Campers
  • Hunters
  • Tailgaters
  • Construction workers

What It Can Be Used For

Some examples include…

  • Powering small electronics such as laptops or cell phones.
  • Powering or charging power tools and work lights.
  • Powering small to medium-sized appliances in an RV such as a television or microwave.
  • Powering backup lights around the home, a sump pump, or an air-conditioning unit in the event of a power cut.

Powerful, yet Quiet

The heart of any inverter generator is its engine, and in the case of the WEN 56200i, it’s a 79.7cc, 4-stroke overhead valve (OHV) engine capable of producing a surge wattage output of 2,000W, and running wattage of 1,600W.

As mentioned above, the power produced by the WEN 56200i is often referred to as ‘clean’ energy – not from an environmental perspective (although it is EPA III and CARB Compliant), but the fact that this inverter generator limits total harmonic distortion to under 0.3% at no load and 1.2% at full load, helping remove voltage spikes and drops that could otherwise damage sensitive electronics.

What this means in practice is that the 56200i can safely run electronics such as laptops, cell phones, computer monitors or tables without the risk of damage – something you couldn’t as easily or safely achieve with a conventional generator.

image showing the wen 56200i 2000 watt inverter generator charging a phone

The WEN 56200i is also incredibly fuel efficient, with it being able to run for up to six hours on a half-load from a single filling of its one-gallon fuel tank.

It’s also smart too – thanks to its built-in Eco-Mode Throttle which is selectable via a switch on the inverter generator’s control panel. Eco-Mode automatically adjusts the 56200i’s fuel consumption to meet the power requirements of whatever is currently plugged into it – giving you the peace of mind that you aren’t wasting valuable power during any power outages or camping trips.

image showing the wen 56200i 2000 watt inverter generator eco mode button

Not only that, but despite the high level of power provided by the 56200i inverter generator, it’s also extremely quiet at only 51 dB when operating at quarter load, meaning you won’t disrupt fellow campers or annoy your neighbors while using it.


Outlet-Packed (Despite Its Small Size)

There’s no denying the importance of an inverter generator’s power output, and in the case of the WEN 56200i, it certainly packs a punch.

Just as important is how usable all that power is though, and this means that there needs to be a whole host of outlets available on an inverter generator to let you power-up all manners of devices from battery chargers, to external lights, to laptop computers, for example.

Despite its relatively small size, this is another area where the WEN 56200i excels thanks to the four outlets offered on its control panel, including two 3-prong 120V outlets to allow you to plugin conventional plugged electronics, one 12V DC outlet designed to run other types of portable electronics, and one 5V USB port for charging your phone, for example.

image showing the wen 56200i 2000 watt inverter generator outlet types

In the unlikely event that you find the WEN 56200i to be underpowered or the number of outlets provided to be insufficient, it’s possible to hook up a second 56200i inverter generator to double the power output and the number of outlets on offer by using the WEN 56421 Parallel Connection Kit for Inverter Generators (see the accessories section below for more details).


Easy to Use & Maintain

While the control panel of the WEN 56200i may look intimidating at first glance, it’s straightforward to use and understand.

Firstly, starting the WEN 56200i couldn’t be simpler, and involves using the 3-in-1 switch located on the control panel and the pull-start mechanism located on the side of the inverter generator.

To start, simply position the switch to position 3 (‘CHOKE’), and pull the pull-starter until the engine jumps into life. At this point, return the 3-in-1 switch to position 2 (‘ON’) and leave it there. The user manual recommends waiting a few minutes before connecting any devices to the inverter generator to allow its speed and temperature to stabilize.

To switch off the WEN 56200i, it’s as easy as turning the 3-in-1 switch to position 1 (‘OFF’), which will stop the inverter generator’s engine completely.

Being four-stroke, there is no need to mix oil and gasoline together, although the inverter generator will require both to function. Adding fuel is a case of removing the fuel cap which is conveniently located at the top of the inverter generator, before filling it up and replacing the cap. The 56200i also features a handy oil filler panel which can be removed to gain access to where the oil needs to be added as shown in the image below.

image showing the wen 56200i 2000 watt inverter generator oil compartment cap

When it comes to ongoing maintenance, the WEN 56200i is relatively straightforward. The owner’s manual outlines in detail the various tasks that should be conducted and when, for example, checking and replacing the engine oil, checking and cleaning the air cleaner cartridge and the spark plug, and also checking and cleaning the fuel tank, meaning you can spend less time worrying about maintenance and more time using your inverter generator the way it was intended.


Other Key Features

The WEN 56200i comes packed with a few more features that you’d expect to see on more premium inverter generators. For starters, it’s equipped with a low-oil pressure shutoff mechanism to protect the engine from damage in the case that there isn’t enough oil available.

It also features an indicator light on the control panel to let you know when the inverter generator is overloaded. Overloading it can lead to overheating and additional stresses on the engine and electrical components, and so it’s a bonus that the WEN 56200i makes this so easy to determine before any lasting damage can be done.

image showing two wen 56200i 2000 watt inverter generators connected in parallel

Finally, as mentioned previously, the WEN 56200i features a parallel connection capability when used alongside the WEN 56421 Parallel Connection Kit. Hooking up a second WEN generator using this kit (see image below) allows you to double the power output when you need it most.


In Summary

It’s no surprise that the WEN 56200i is one of the most popular inverter generators on the market.

As with the majority of WEN products, it comes packed with more than enough features to make it a serious competitor to more expensive alternatives, yet comes at a fraction of the price to offer considerable value for money.

The 56200i regularly receives positive reviews citing its excellent build quality, reliability, and the fact it provides more than enough power to handle the bulk of tasks that users throw at it.

So, regardless if you’re looking for an inverter generator to use now and again during a power cut, or as something you can use continually during a camping trip, there’s no reason to overlook the WEN 56200i.

We’ve included a summary of the various advantages and disadvantages of this particular WEN generator below to help you make up your mind.

Click Here for Pricing, Reviews, & More Images of the
WEN 56200i 2000 Watt Inverter Generator

WEN 56200i – The Pros
  • Handle the bulk of your power needs with ease thanks to the WEN 56200i’s running wattage of 1600W and surge wattage of 2000W.
  • Safely run sensitive electronics such as laptops and tablets given the fact that this inverter generator limits total harmonic distortion to under 0.3% at no load and 1.2% at full load, helping remove voltage spikes and drops that could otherwise damage sensitive electronics.
  • Have peace of mind in its ability to last the duration of even the longest power-cuts given its runtime of six hours on one tank of fuel when running a half-load.
  • Enjoy improved fuel efficiency thanks to the Eco-Mode Throttle which automatically adjusts the 56200i’s fuel consumption to meet the power requirements of whatever you’ve plugged into it.
  • Forget about disrupting your fellow campers or annoying your neighbors, as, despite its generous power output, the 56200i is also extremely quiet at only 51 dB while operating at quarter load.
  • Run multiple types of output simultaneously thanks to the WEN 56200i’s four outlets (2x three-prong 120V outlets, 1x 12V DC outlet, and 1x 5V USB port).
  • Easily spot when something isn’t quite right thanks to the indicator lights on the front of the inverter generator that let you know if it is overloaded or when the oil level is low.
  • Need even more power? You can easily pair up a second WEN 56200i to double the power output using the WEN 56421 kit which sells separately.
  • Store and transport it easily thanks to its low weight (48 LBS), relatively small size, and handy carrying handle.
WEN 56200i – The Cons
  • It features a pull-starter as opposed to an electric start button.

Popular Comparison

WEN 56200i vs Honda EU2000i

There are more similarities than there are differences between the WEN 56200i vs Honda EU2000i.

Both run on gasoline and feature a 1-gallon fuel tank, and both feature a running wattage of 1600W and a surge wattage of 2000W. There is no difference in the starting mechanism either, with a recoil pull-starter featured on each inverter generator.

The primary difference is in the engine size itself, with the Honda EU2000i featuring a 98.5cc engine as opposed to the WEN 56200i’s 79.7cc unit. Other differences include the Honda’s three-year warranty (versus the WEN’s two-year), and the fact that the Honda weighs slightly less (45.6 LBS versus 48 LBS).

Here is a summary of the key details for each model:

(Scroll table if needed)

 

image of the wen 56200i 2000 watt inverter generator
image of the Honda eu2000i generator

Model Number:

65200i

EU2000i

Manufacturer:

WEN

Honda

Engine:

79.7cc

98.5cc

Power Source:

Gasoline

Gasoline

Start Type:

Recoil Start

Recoil Start

Running Wattage:

1600W

1600W

Surge Wattage:

2000W

2000W

Fuel Tank:

1 Gallon

1 Gallon

Half-Load Runtime:

6 Hours

6 Hours

Eco Mode:

Yes

Yes

Carb Compliant:

Yes

Yes

Warranty:

Two Years

Three Years

Dimensions:

18″ x 11″ x 18″

20.1″ x 11.4″ x 16.7″

Tool Weight:

48 LBS

45.6 LBS

 


WEN 56200i Accessories

Are you looking for some genuine WEN accessories to accompany your 56200i generator?

Here are a few of our favorites to help you keep your generator’s internals in tip-top shape, to allow you to add a second generator to double the power output, and to keep it protected from the weather and bumps, knocks, and scrapes:

WEN 55201 – Magnetic Oil Dipstick for Inverter Generators

an image showing the WEN 55201 - Magnetic Oil Dipstick for Inverter Generators

Preserve your 56200i generator’s life by keeping metal out of the engine. This magnetic dipstick collects any metal shavings floating in your generator’s oil tank before they can do any lasting damage.

See It on Amazon

Check Price

WEN 56421 – Parallel Connection Kit for Inverter Generators

an image showing the WEN 56421 - Parallel Connection Kit for Inverter Generators

The 56421 Parallel Connection Kit is designed to let you connect two WEN inverter generators to double the power. It includes a single RV AC 120V outlet along with one AC 120V three-prong wall outlet.

See It on Amazon

Check Price

WEN Universal Weatherproof Inverter Generator Cover, Large

an image showing the WEN Universal Weatherproof Inverter Generator Cover in Large

Keep your WEN generator protected with this universal weatherproof cover. It’s waterproof and UV resistant to help withstand the elements, while the cotton interior helps prevent any scuffs or scratches.

See It on Amazon

Check Price


Frequently Asked Questions
  1. How is an inverter generator different from a conventional generator?
Conventional generators have been around for much longer, and hence tend to be more widely used than inverter generators. Standard generators can run on gasoline, diesel or propane/LPG, and they usually aren’t very complicated, consisting mainly of a motor which is attached to an alternator to produce electricity. The motor itself usually runs at as constant a speed as possible to provide a non-fluctuating electrical output.

Inverter generators are a relatively recent development. They’re similar to conventional generators in that they produce an AC voltage output, however, where they’re different is that the AC output produced is converted to a DC voltage, and then changed back to a clean AC voltage.

The main advantage of converting to DC before changing back to AC is that it is very effective at eliminating power fluctuations, making it possible to run complex electronics from the power generated – something it wouldn’t be advisable to do with a conventional generator.

  1. How loud is the 56200i during use?
It produces a low output of only 51 dB at quarter load, and 55 dB at 3/4 load.
  1. Is this WEN generator waterproof?
No, it will need to be protected from water and rain.
  1. Does it have an electric starter?
No, it features a pull-starter mechanism.
  1. Which types of outlet does it feature?
It includes 2x three-prong 120V outlets to allow you to plugin conventional plugged electronics, 1x 12V DC outlet designed to run other types of portable electronics, and 1x 5V USB port for charging your phone, for example.
  1. How long will a tank of gas last in this inverter generator?
Approximately six hours when running at 50% load.

We’d recommend checking out the following article for more information: How long can you run a generator continuously?

  1. Does the WEN 56200i need to be grounded during use?
WEN recommends always grounding the inverter generator before use. Failure to do so properly as per the recommendations in the instruction manual increases your risk of electric shock.
  1. Can it run on propane?
No – it runs on gasoline only.
  1. How long is the warranty period?
Two years.

WEN 56200i Review Videos

Click Here for Pricing, Reviews, & More Images of the
WEN 56200i 2000 Watt Inverter Generator

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Author: Jon Maxwell
Senior Writer, ToolCrowd
Jon Maxwell writes about various topics for ToolCrowd, including tool reviews, material advice, common home problems, and general DIY advice and how-to articles. His work has been published in national publications for audiences including consumers, homeowners, and industry experts. Jon has a bachelor's degree in Building Surveying and a master's degree in a branch of Civil Engineering focusing on concrete and steel durability. When he isn't writing for ToolCrowd, Jon enjoys completing DIY tasks in his own home, as well as woodworking in his home workshop, snowboarding, and website development. Contact Jonarrow_right_alt
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