WEN 56200i, 1600 Gas Portable Inverter Generator
Introduction
Even though WEN has changed the styling of the 562001 2000 watt inverter generator, the overall features have remained the same as the older model. Since it was established in 1951, WEN has been known for producing high-quality power tools for worldwide distribution. Headquartered in Elgin, Illinois, WEN backs up its pride and stands behind all of its equipment, including its portable generators, with great warranties and support. We took a look at this unit and have selected it to be in our Top Ten Best portable generators for its overall performance and features.
Features
Conventional generators are the most popular and widely used, having been around the longest. They are gas-powered with a motor that is attached to an alternator, producing electricity at a consistent speed that is usually 3600 rpm to produce the required 120 volt current. Conventional generators are restricted to a constant 3600 rpm.
Inverter generators are a relatively new technology that has been made possible through advanced electronics and the highest quality magnets. This functions by outputting AC current like most generators, but then the current is converted to DC voltage and “inverted” back to clean AC voltage.
The advantage to this method is that it keeps a constant flow of current to your appliances. Inverter generators are generally smaller than conventional, and weigh less, plus they can operate at variable speeds, which makes them more fuel efficient. And finally, they are quieter.
Cleaner, Safer Operation
As if the extremely quiet operation isn’t enough to sell you, which, according to the US Department of Health and Human Services, is in comparison to a normal conversation, maybe the fact that generates clean power and is EPA III and CARB compliant will.
Besides being a cleaner unit that safely powers your more sensitive electronics, this WEN 562001 2000 watt inverter generator produces a pure sine wave and limits the total harmonic distortion to under 0.03 percent at no load and below 1.2 percent at full load – which means that it is designed to safely operate laptops, smartphones, monitors, and other similar, sensitive electronic devices.
This portable generator also includes two – 3-prong 120 volt outlets, one-12 volt DC outlet and even one 5 volt USB port.Another safety feature is the low-oil automatic shutdown that prevents any damage to the engine when the oil is down below the minimum level, protecting the engine from destruction. An optional parallel kit (sold separately) allows you to link two of these generators together to provide an extra boost for powering more appliances.
You cannot control how often the power grid goes out, but you can control how you react to it — which means being prepared for the worst when it does happen. An inverter generator will not power up your entire home, but it will power the essentials and make your life that much easier during these outages, reducing stress and maintaining what is needed, like preserving your perishables and your home’s heating and cooling system.
WEN has pioneered different technologies for its various engines, and this has made it the go-to company for innovative products, that combine power and performance in one functional unit, and it backs its 56200i 1600 watt portable generator with a two-year limited warranty for damage and repairs on all parts.
Why We Liked It
Being an inverter generator, we already knew it would run efficiently and clean. We were able to successfully run this at half-load for a whole night, and didn’t even know it was there, it was so quiet. This convenient little generator did the job well, and for the price, really provides a great value for having around the home, campground, or even on the construction site.
Conclusion
For an affordable cost, the WEN 562001 2000 is a solid, dependable portable generator for those light to medium power needs at home, campground or job site, Compact and light weight, this portable generator is easy to handle and transport, and works well for any setting, making this unit a great choice for emergencies or those short-term needs.