WEN 56200i Portable Generator Review – Is It Best for You?
We like the fact that an increasing number of manufacturers are now turning their attention to smaller, portable, and performance-oriented generators.
One such unit is the Wen 56200i; this beautifully made inverter generator features a revamped styling for 2020, and thanks to the modern technology incorporated in this unit, it delivers clean and quiet power devoid of voltage spikes and drops.
Designed with advanced technology, this unit mirrors a pure sine wave that is ideal for powering your sensitive electronic devices.
In the Wen 56200i review article below, we shall highlight everything you need to know about this unit.
Related: How To Clean Up Generator Power
Features and Benefits
Lightweight and Portable Design
The Wen 56200i sports an extremely efficient design. Generally, it's compact, and features a fairly cuboidal design, somewhat resembling a suitcase in its overall construction.
Dimension-wise, the Wen is modest in terms of weight and size. Weighing at a mere 48 pounds and with a dimension of 18 x 11 x 18 in, you can bring the Wen anywhere with you.
Again, the modest dimension of the unit will allow you to easily stuff the generator in the back of your family car.
Besides the lightweight nature, maneuverability on this unit is further bolstered by the presence of a built-in handle for convenient carrying.
Reliable Power Output
The Wen generator is powered by a 79.7cc single cylinder 4-stroke OHV engine. What sets this engine apart from the rest is the fact that it comes with a forced cooling system, and this means you will no longer have to worry about the generator overheating.
The drivetrain on this unit can deliver 1600 running watts and 2000W of surge wattage.
With a total of 2000W, there is only a lot that this generator can accomplish. Like all the 2000W generators, the Wen is not ideal for the relatively large inductive loads such as ½ HP well pump.
However, when it comes to mobile power for RVs, tailgates, campground, or household appliances, the Wen 56200i is right at home.
From supplying energy to freezers, lighting system, handheld electronics to TVs, the Wen will power them comfortably.
Parallel Connection Capability
Assuming that the 2000W offered by the Wen is not sufficient juice to power all your appliances, you can use the Parallel Connection kit to hook up a second generator to boost output power.
Keep in mind that the Parallel Connection Kit is a separate feature that you will need to purchase independently.
Clean Power/Inverter Technology
The Wen 56200i reproduces a pure sine wave and limits the harmonic distortion.
Minimal THD is the most responsible factor why it makes the Wen unit safe for use with sensitive electronics, and all gadgets at large.
According to the manufacturer's specifications, the Wen will generate a THD of <0.3% on no load and <1.2% while running at full capacity.
With this device, no device is too delicate for hooking up, and you are always guaranteed that your electronics will be protected against the harmful spikes and drops of power.
Eco-mode
While still at the inverter technology, it would be worth pointing out that the Wen, like any other inverter generator, features an eco-mode function.
Unlike the conventional generators, the Eco mode function will allow the engine on the Wen to adjust its speed according to the load.
The benefit of this function is that it will allow you to optimize the performance of the generators, and more importantly promote fuel efficiency.
Enhanced Fuel Efficiency
Speaking of fuel efficiency, the Wen will provide you with 6 hours of runtime on 50% load and while at full load, this unit will provide you with slightly over four hours of run time.
The runtime provided is quite a bummer as it is on the lower side of the scale, and will not manage to take you through the night.
Quiet Operation
Inverter generators, in general, tend to be quieter than the conventional units, and the Wen 56200i is no different.
Rated at 51 decibels, you can tailgate and stay charged without having to disrupt the un of everyone else around you.
The unobtrusiveness of this unit not only makes the Wen unit ideal for tailgating, but also for lots of other locations including hunting, camping and as a home back-up power.
Ease of Use/Convenience Features
For convenience purposes, or rather versatility, the Wen features several power outlets that will improve on its multi-purpose use.
Collectively, the Wen will allow you to hook up to 4 electronics simultaneously. This is made possible, thanks to the presence of:
These receptacles will ensure that you have multiple ways to connect your devices.
When it comes to the ease of use, the Wen features an intuitive and straightforward control panel with a display section.
What we like most about the control panel on the Wen is that it’s centralized, and it features conveniently placed control functions.
Conclusion: Is the Wen 56200i Right for you?
When considering all the Wen features and functionality, it’s easy to see why this unit is so popular. And thanks to the minimal THD, you can power your sensitive electronics without the worry of “frying” them.
In our honest review, or at least what we think, the Wen 56200i is a great generator that will serve you for a long period and power all your households with ease.
