The WEN 56203i portable inverter generator boasts super quiet, compact, and lightweight features at 1700 watts running and a 2000-watt surge. While producing all your small appliance power needs, this generator also creates clean power for more delicate electronic devices.
Chances are, you already know how beneficial owning a portable generator can be. Most of us are aware that generators can provide backup power when emergencies or routine power outages happen. They are also a great use for supplemental power while camping, tailgating, or working with power tools.
The most common generator differences are the number and type of ports, receptacles, outlets, wattage, capacity, and, of course, size.
A portable generator is super handy because it’s compact and easy to move around.
The WEN 56203i portable inverter generator is ideal for residential use because it has a lower noise level than most other generators of its watt capacity.
Now, let’s dive deep into a more detailed review of the WEN 56203i portable inverter generator.
Review of the WEN 56203i 2000-Watt Gasoline Portable Inverter Generator
In The Box
Usually, your WEN 56203i inverter generator box should include a few items. Aside from the generator itself, you should find the user manual, a funnel, and a small bag of tools: a screwdriver, an 8/10mm wrench, and a spark plug socket.
Portability of WEN 56203i
The WEN 56203i inverter generator weighs merely 39 pounds and has an enclosed plastic casing with a built-in top handle, making it very convenient to move around by a single person. It is one of the lightest generators at a 2000-watt surge rating.
It’s still a little too heavy to walk to a remote campsite, but it’s unlikely a gas-powered generator would be a top pick for that kind of trip anyway.
The power that this WEN inverter generator packs into a small space have been providing the desired energy for consumers, making it one of their favorites.
Control Panel of WEN 56203i
The front of the WEN 56203i portable generator is where you will find the control panel with all its outlets and receptacles, light indicators, switches, and on/off buttons. All are very clearly highlighted and detailed in orange.
On the top left are three indicator lights. The first is for the output which turns green while the generator is in use. Next is the overload warning that turns red when the output has exceeded watt capacity. It will blink first and if not shut off, will turn solid red and automatically shut off to protect itself. And third is the low oil indicator which turns yellow to let you know to put more oil in the crankcase.
Move over to the right and you’ll find the eco-mode switch and the choke lever.
Turning on eco-mode will boost the fuel economy while also lengthening run time. The choke lever is used to start the generator’s engine.
Below the eco-mode switch, you’ll find the reset and circuit breaker buttons. These will only be pressed if you overload the WEN 56203i generator. On the right of these is the fuel on/off the dial, which includes the ‘fuel off’ position.
Below this dial is the parallel connection, used for combining another generator to get a higher watt usage. Just to the left of the parallel connection and below the circuit breaker button is the grounding nut. This is where you would connect a grounding wire to comply with safety standards and lessen the risk of shocking yourself.
On the left side of the control panel, below the output indicator light, are two AC 120V, NEMA 5-20R receptacles. Now, it’s important to note that the NEMA rating of 20 amps can only be achieved while parallel connecting with another generator. If you’re using this WEN inverter generator by itself, you should not go beyond 14 amps (1700 watts) on these receptacles. In between these receptacles and the reset button is the DC 12V (cigarette lighter) outlet.
Lastly, below the DC 12V outlet, are two DC 5V USB ports for charging a variety of smaller electronic items. The top port is rated for 1 amp, and the port below it is rated for 2.1 amps.
Noise Level
This 2000-watt portable inverter generator was built with your neighbor’s well-being in mind. The engine is rated to operate at 51 decibels at a quarter load, making the sound level about the same as a regular conversation from a distance around 20 feet from the exhaust end. From about 5 feet away, the decibels were raised to the mid-‘60s. When the eco-mode switch is turned on, the generator is distinctly even quieter.
Many customers rave about how quiet the WEN 56203i generator is compared to other portable generators and how surprised they were when testing how noisy it might be. Currently, there seems to be only one other portable generator that is rated a few decibels quieter than this WEN 56203i inverter generator.
Safety
Obviously, when dealing with a gas-powered engine there will be safety hazards to look out for and precautions you should take. Using common sense should go a long way when it comes to staying safe while using a portable generator. Knowing that you’re working with flammable materials and with a potential risk of shock or carbon monoxide poisoning should cause you to act accordingly. The WEN 56203i user manual is a great asset if you’re not sure about a specific situation.
Here are some helpful features in keeping safe while enjoying your WEN 56203i portable inverter generator:
- The low oil sensor will not allow the generator to start without enough oil.
- Grounding the generator will greatly reduce your risk of being shocked.
- The generator will automatically shut off if the load is too great for it to handle, essentially protecting itself.
Maintenance
The user manual is extremely helpful in detailing maintenance needs. In the manual is a convenient table to keep track of when you service different parts of your WEN 56203i inverter generator. There is also a chart giving a recommended schedule for when to provide maintenance on the engine oil, air filter, spark plug, fuel, carburetor, and spark arrestor.
- WEN recommends that the 2000-watt 56203i inverter generator runs at least once a month for about 20-30 minutes to maximize the lifespan and at the very least, 15 minutes every month. The user manual goes on to state that if the generator is not run often, it may greatly decrease the generator’s life and void the warranty.
- The fuel shutoff feature helps with keeping maintenance low. After the WEN 56203i generator has been running for whatever necessary task, the fuel on/off dial may be turned to the ‘fuel off’ position, and the generator will continue to burn away the rest of the fuel from the carburetor until it shuts off. This will help in limiting fuel degradation as well as extending the life of the WEN 56203i inverter generator’s engine.
- To prevent build-up and blockages, you should drain the carburetor after each use. Fuel should not be kept sitting in the WEN 56203i longer than 2 months during storage.
- The engine oil should be checked every 8 hours of generator use or daily and should be changed every 25 hours.
- To make sure there is efficient air-flow to the carburetor, it’s recommended that the air filter be checked after using the WEN generator every 50 hours or every 3 months.
- The spark plug and spark arrestor are both recommended to be checked and/or cleaned every 6 months or 100 hours of use.
- It’s important to note that you should always keep your WEN 56203i portable inverter generator upright, even in transport.
Proper care is described in detail in the user manual. There is also a nifty troubleshooting guide within the instructions.
Summary
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 4-Stroke, OHV |
| Engine Displacement | 79cc |
| Amperage | 14.1A @ 120V |
| Running Watts | 1,700 |
| Peak Watts | 2,000 |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| Tank Capacity | 1.06 gal. |
| Max. Runtime | 7 hours @ 50% load |
| Dimensions | 17.3″ x 11.5″ x 17.7″ |
| Weight | 39 lbs |
| Noise Level | 51 dBA |
| Certifications | CARB-Compliant |
| Warranty | 2-years |
Pros
- Economical buy
- Multiple outlets
- Perfect for outdoor activities
- Lightweight
- Less noise
- Clean power output
Cons
- Missing data center
- External grounding required
- Low power output
Additional Resources:
WEN 56203i Super Quiet 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator Accessories
Interested in more power? You may purchase a second WEN generator and the WEN parallel connection kit to connect and essentially double your wattage capacity.
WEN GNA50i 50-Amp 6000-Watt Parallel Connection Kit
Worried about inclement weather? You can purchase a cover from WEN such as the WEN universal weatherproof medium inverter generator cover.
WEN 56310iC Universal Weatherproof Inverter Generator Cover
Why the WEN Brand?
WEN brand considers the everyday homeowner and do-it-yourself craftsman by delivering high-quality power tools at an affordable price. Originally founded in 1951 by Nick Anton, WEN combines electricity with regular tools to create the power tools so many know and love today. From chainsaws to electric engravers, WEN continues to innovate.
Over the past few decades, their research development has led them to help introduce random orbital technology. This technology is used today in many polishers and waxers for cars. Since then, WEN has expanded its products to include a wider range, such as drill presses and generators. Currently, their headquarters reside in Elgin, Illinois. WEN’s goal is to help the creative DIYers, and artisans of the woodworking community realize their crafting dreams.
Why an Inverter Generator?
An inverter generator electronically regulates the speed of the engine according to the power load used. Instead of running at a constant speed no matter the load, it will throttle up or down accordingly. This will help save money by not having to refuel as often. Its other main function is to produce clean power to be able to charge sensitive electronic devices. Inverter generators also produce lower emissions and less noise.
Inverter Generator vs. Standard Generator: A Simple Guide
Clean Power
Put simply, clean power refers to the clean sine wave the inverter can help produce. A clean sine wave means that the power converted from direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) is oscillating at exactly 60 hertz without any distortion or noise in the line. The WEN 56203i inverter generator is said to have a total harmonic distortion (THD) of less than 1.2 percent. The importance here is that it creates a safe environment to charge your sensitive electronics such as phones, tablets, and laptops.
Eco-mode
While the WEN inverter generator is running, the eco mode idle control switch may be turned on to allow for adjustment of the speed of the engine to match the load. This in turn will reduce fuel consumption, as well as lower the noise level. Using the eco-mode switch will also help in producing a longer runtime. It should be noted that this is only for a load under 1000 watts, as any higher load will demand the engine to run at full speed.
Final Word
Overall, the WEN 56203i portable inverter generator is a super quiet and efficient 2000 surge watt generator. It’s mostly used to power the smaller appliances around the house in an emergency, working with smaller power tools, or while camping. Many raves about how quickly it starts, the amount of power you get for the price, and how easy it is to carry around.
Check Out More Of Our WEN Generator Reviews
The Ultimate WEN 56200i 2000-Watt Gas Portable Inverter Generator Review
The Ultimate WEN DF1100T 11000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator Review
The Ultimate WEN 56235i 2350-Watt Gas Portable Inverter Generator Review
The Ultimate WEN 56380i 3800-Watt Gas Portable Inverter Generator Review
The Ultimate WEN DF475T 4750-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator Review
The Ultimate WEN GN400i 4000-Watt Gas Portable Inverter Generator Review
The Ultimate WEN Quiet Generator Review
FAQs
Yes, an acceptable wire is a No.12 AWG-stranded copper wire. Be sure to check the grounding codes for the area in which you will be using the WEN 56203i generator.
The WEN 56203i inverter generator is rated at 51 decibels at a quarter load from about 20 feet. Reviewers have shown it will get up to around 70 decibels when closer or at full power.
It is a pull start operation. There is a bit of preparation involved, such as making sure you have poured in the oil and fuel, adhered to all safety issues, and then turning some dials on before pulling the recoil starter handle.
It can power anything with a combined wattage usage of 1700W. Some popular examples are a circular saw, laptops, tablets, phones, television, drone batteries, refrigerators, etc. If you need more power, there is also the option to parallel connect with a second WEN 56203i portable generator.
This WEN portable generator’s fuel system might be affected if used above 2000 feet without a high-altitude kit. The kit is sold separately. Even with the kit, an altitude of above 7000 may decrease the engine’s performance.
This portable generator uses unleaded min 87 octane gas and performs best when it is ethanol-free. Do not use any gas with more than 10 percent ethanol.
The WEN 56203i requires a synthetic 5W-30 for all temperature ranges. If you’d like oil temperature ranges above 40 degrees Fahrenheit only, use 30W. A 10-30W oil is good only for temperatures ranging from 0 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
No, it won’t harm the WEN 56203i generator. You will need to use the choke once ready to restart.
It’s okay if some dew or light rain gets on it, especially if it is grounded, but generally no. You don’t want to let the generator get wet due to the risk of being shocked.
Customer Service –
techsupport@wenproducts.com
1-847-429-9263
