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It ’s inexpedient to leave power needs up to chance — especially during an emergency situation or while enjoying off - grid risky venture — and that ’s where a portable generator can come in . I tested theWestinghouse WGen9500DF generator , a dual - fuel powerhouse that features an impressive capacity of up to 12,500 peak watts and a true 9,500 running James Watt . This generator perform better than I thought it would during a battery of trial I designed to mimic what an end - substance abuser would require .
As part of a comprehensive team trial run to determinethe good portable generators , I tried out the WGen9500DF at my own workshop and rural residence . This author runs on either gasoline or propane — and switching from one to the other is a gentle wind . In my tests , it well power several convenience and tools , including light , power putz , a 30 - A dryer , and a 50 - amp oven / range combo — although not all at the same time . out front , find out what I liked about the WGen9500DF , what I loved , and what I wished Westinghouse would do otherwise to improve this model .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
Westinghouse WGen9500DFGenerator: At a Glance
Rating : 9.25/10
SPECS
PROS
CONS
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What is the Westinghouse WGen9500DF generator?
TheWGen9500DFis a portable duple fuel source , intend it ’s not stationary and it ’s up to of running on gasoline or propane ( LPG ) . I ’ve only had gasoline - power portable generator in the past times , so this was something new and exciting to try out . Westinghouse has been a prominent name in the electric and electronics industry for over a one C , go steady back to the pioneering work of George Westinghouse . The Westinghouse steel has a legacy of introducing groundbreaking engineering , and itscurrent line of generatorsis no exception .
power by a full-bodied 457cc 4 - throw OHV Westinghouse locomotive with a perdurable cast - iron arm , the WGen9500DF ’s exploiter - well-disposed feature of speech let in a construct - in fuel gauge that ’s easy to see , robotic down in the mouth - petroleum closing , and GFCI way out for supply safety . The convenience of a remote- start central fob ( my favorite feature ) puddle start out effortless , even from a distance .
This generator is transferee tack quick . This mean it can be forthwith wired into a home ’s electric control board and when the power go out , the source will self - pop and send electricity through the home ’s installed circuits . Unfortunately , that ’s the one feature of speech I did n’t test because thetransfer switchsells on an individual basis . what is more , I ’m not a rooter of transfer switch integration for this size author — transfer electric switch are typically designed for standby author that provide enough business leader to render an entire nursing home ’s electrical needs . Additionally , there can be safety issues relate a portable generator to a home ’s electrical system of rules , so should consumers pick out to set up a transport permutation , I advocate receive a pro lineman thieve it up .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
With this source ’s portability feature ( which include heavy - obligation , never - prostrate wheels and a handle ) , an individual ’s home , change of location trailer , or jobsite can be powered up speedily . The WGen9500DF is a top choice for anyone looking for a backup power root , an pinch generator , or even outback workshop force .
How long will it run on a full tank of gasoline? What about propane?
The generator is rated to fly the coop up to 12 hour on a full 6.6 - congius armoured combat vehicle of accelerator when function at 25 percent payload . However , I found that the clip varied depending on several factors , such as the gasolene tone and the power I was pulling .
I ran it for the first 5 hours ( urge break - in period ) on petrol only , and during that menstruation , I ran a couple of corded power instrument , a small space heater , and some brightness level . After the break - in period , I refilled the tank to the top , plug in a great shop compressor , and used it to power several pneumatic tools . I judge I was pulling about a 40 percent payload , which waver as the compressor cycled with tool use . The tool exercise was n’t unceasing , but at the end of a 6 - hour day of frequent peter use in the shop ( with the author ladder the whole metre ) , I checked the gas tank , and it was still about a third full .
Westinghouse rates the WGen9500DF as extend up to 7 hours at a 50 pct load on propane . I had a propane tank with what I estimated was about 18 to 20 gallons , and on the day I tested the unit of measurement with propane , the generator ply for just over 6 hours . During that test , I was force a load similar to what was used for the gasoline tests — my shop compressor and oft used pneumatic tools . So , yes , it lead slightly less ( time - wise ) on propane . I ’d advise user to compare the going prices for gasoline and propane in their local area , because actual price efficiency may diverge look on the fuel cost .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
For those who plan on launch the generator in the main on propane , it may be most economic to connect a designated line of merchandise from a large bulk propane tank . That ’s because propane is typically cheaper when delivered in volume .
How user-friendly is the WGen9500DF?
First off , this is a grave source , so user will want to plan to have a path to transport the box when it ’s delivered . The source itself weighs 211 pounds , and with the box and pallet it comes on , it count 226 hammering . A heavy - duty paw truck or rolling pallet will be necessary to get the unit where the user wants to uncrate and assemble it .
Assembly is easy , but again , it ’s big , so user will need a way to uprise it slightly while attach the wheels . Once the two wheels are installed , portability improves and it ’s much leisurely to tip it up and pull it where needed . Loading it on a dawdler bed or in the back of a hand truck , however , will take two or three strong helpers .
Starting and operating theWGen9500DFis square and nonrational . There ’s no indigence for a propane spiritual rebirth kit — it ’s all built into the machine . It has a clearly marked fuel selector switch : All the user needs to do is turn it straight up to launch the generator on gasolene and downward to run it on propane .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
Filling the gaseous state tank proved a picnic via a large detonating machine on the top of the generator . as easy to use , the propane storage tank connects with a stock compression fitting to a valve at the bottom of the simple machine . Once the fuel source was connected ( or the tankful filled ) , I just turn the shelling substitution to the “ on ” posture and pushed the “ start ” button on the political machine ( or used the remote control ) , and the source roared to life . It also comes with a handy recoil cord if the electric battery that powers the electric start run down . I make the cord a average - major power twist , and the generator take off flop up .
The manufacturer claims the remote ascendency will work from 90 feet away . I measured , however , and the farthest away I could stand and still initiate the machine by remote control was 35 feet . I wondered if the battery in the remote control was low on burster , so I swapped in a fresh battery . for certain enough , I was then able-bodied to set off the generator from amply 90 metrical foot off . telling !
Additionally , each mogul outlet on the source is distinctly marked and has a rubber detonator that fits over it snugly to protect from grunge , rubble , and moisture when not in function .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
The WGen9500DF also features a VFT Data Center that provides substantial - time information on voltage output , frequency , and lifetime hours . I liked the musical theme of the data shopping centre , but the downside is its tiny mode button , barely bigger than the forefront of a pin , that I had to crusade to toggle through the showing mode . I finally ended up get out it set on “ hr ” because I could see at a coup d’oeil the total time of day the auto had been used . If the modality button were larger , it ’d be more functional . Overall , though , I discover the WGen9500DF to be a very exploiter - friendly generator .
How loud is the WGen9500DF when it’s running?
This generator is fairly forte — comparatively talk . It ’s about as trashy as any fuel - powered generator I ’ve been around . I tested the generator with my decibel tester from about 6 human foot away , and it toggle between 89 and 90 decibels . agree toPurdue University , that ’s about equal in sound to a bike pass by 25 infantry away .
Changing the fuel from gasoline to propane did n’t touch on the sound spirit level — it remain the same no matter what . After a few minute of testing , I went in hunting of some hearing shielder , which made it much more well-fixed to be around the machine . I find I was also able to get some reliever from the noise if I put the author outside on the concrete and then ran an elongation electric cord inside my shop while using it to power a variety of tools , let in a table saw , an air compressor , a lathe , and a drill press .
The maker list the decibel at just 74 , but I believe the examiner at Westinghouse must have been abide at least 75 animal foot off to get that reading . Up nigh , where most users will be — at least ab initio — it ’s quite a bit louder .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
How much can I power at once with the WGen9500DF?
I was able to power several standard power tools at the same clock time without any cliff in business leader , and ( at disjoined times ) an oven / range combo and a clothes dryer . Users can use anonline chartthat evidence the middling estimated Watt for most household appliances . All a user needs to do is add together up the appliances that need to run and ensure the total is under 9,500 Watt if using gasoline and under 8,500 watts if using propane .
TheWGen9500DFfeatures peak watts ( the highest surge in power ) of 12,500 when it ’s maneuver on gasoline and 9,500 when running on propane . But peak watts are only for the surges that typically occur when a tool or widget starts up . After that , the power attracter settles back to a base running speed . The antic is to run fewer watts than the maximal running speed for the relative fuel . This means users may be able to power a electric refrigerator , an electric skillet , a microwave , and a few other appliances simultaneously , look on the entire combined watt they perpetrate .
Should a user overload one of the circuits ( one of the retail store ) beyond its capableness , the outlet breaker will trip . I only tripped one breaker , and by reducing the load ( unplugging a fastball ) and then weigh the breaker reset clitoris beneath the mercantile establishment , I was able to proceed test . Overall source performance will at last reckon on several factors , including fuel type ( propane or gas ) and the type and amperage of the appliances and tool an individual care to run .
Is the Westinghouse WGen9500DF worth the money?
At first glance , the Westinghouse WGen9500DF generator may appear to be just another option in the crowded world of portable power resolution . However , a closer test reveals that it holds its own and offers substantial value for its price .
With a price tag vagabond from about $ 1,000 to $ 1,300 , calculate on the individual retail merchant , theWestinghouse WGen9500DFfalls within a competitive wall bracket , aligning closely with models of similar build timber and business leader yield . What I think lay out it apart and makes it deserving every centime is its balanced portmanteau word of power , versatility , and exploiter - well-disposed features . The remote - offset central fob is a tangible plot modifier when it ’s bitterly cold alfresco and the drug user prefer to start the generator while still inside a warm house .
The WGen9500DF blow a full-bodied power capacity , drive home up to 12,500 peak Watt and a safe 9,500 run watts . This exponent level means it can handle various tasks , from running essential appliances during powerfulness outages to powering recreational equipment during camping tripper . Its two-fold - fuel potentiality , running on gas and propane , allows user to pick out their preferred fuel generator , making it adaptable to different situations .
Should you buy the WGen9500DF?
Those take care for a powerful yet portable dual - fuel generator may find the WGen9500DF generator to be just the ticket . However , it may not be ideal for those seeking whole - planetary house reportage , lighter - weight mobile contraption , or a noise - sensitive solution . Understanding your specific need and priorities will aid you settle whether the WGen9500DF is right for you .
If you live in an area prostrate to power outages and need a honest support power generator to keep essential appliances and systems running , the WGen9500DF is an excellent alternative . Also , if you have a remote workshop or outbuilding without access code to electrical energy , this generator can bring home the bacon the necessary office to run tool , luminosity , and equipment , making it a top choice for DIY enthusiasts and professionals .
person or folk look for an off - gridiron generator to power all important contraption , lighting , or electronics will belike find the WGen9500DF a dependable electricity source . But drug user will desire to remember its power limitations — it wo n’t run everything in a with child home base .
Those with access to a bulk propane supply may witness the dual - fuel capability advantageous , as propane often has a longer shelf life than gasoline . For those who plan to connect the author to a consecrate propane air , it can provide a reliable and continuous mogul informant .
However , a standby author might be a safe set for those look for a versatile power source that can power an entire home during an outage . Standby generators are sized and installed to provide full - family coverage base on the dwelling ’s square footage and electrical needs .
Additionally , for those who need a extremely portable generator for frequent jaunt or tailgating , the WGen9500DF ’s tidy 211 pound may be Laputan for on - the - go use . For those situation , shoppers may want to consider smaller , more lightweight portable generator . And if noise is a significant concern , specially in residential area , the generator ’s reported 74 decibels ( 89 to 90 in examination ) may be too tatty for comfort . Inverter author or quieter role model may be a good choice in such cases .
Where to Buy the Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual-Fuel Generator
Meet the Tester
Glenda Taylor is a ware tester and author specializing in the expression , remodeling , and real estate industries . She and her husband own a general contracting company , and Taylor is experienced in both residential and commercial-grade building applications . She tests a broad mountain chain of power tools as well as other domicile improvement , home , and lawn - and - garden products .
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