Wen 56225i User manual

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WENPRODUCTS.COM CARB COMPLIANT
EPA CERTIFIED
Your new tool has been engineered and manufactured to WEN’s highest standards for dependability, ease
of operation, and operator safety. When properly cared for, this product will supply you years of rugged,
trouble-free performance. Pay close attention to the rules for safe operation, warnings, and cautions. If
you use your tool properly and for its intended purpose, you will enjoy years of safe, reliable service.
IMPORTANT:
MODEL 56225i
2250 WATT
INVERTER GENERATOR
NEED HELP? CONTACT US!
800-232-1195 (M-F 8am-5pm CST)
[email protected]
WENPRODUCTS.COM
Have product questions? Need technical support?
Please feel free to contact us at:
NOTICE: Please refer to wenproducts.com for the most up-to-date instruction manual.
bit.ly/wenvideo

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction ....................................................................................2
Safety Information ...........................................................................4
Generator Safety Warnings ..............................................................5
Know Your Generator .......................................................................8
Generator Preparation ...................................................................10
Starting the Generator ...................................................................14
Using the Generator ......................................................................16
Shutting Off the Generator .............................................................20
Maintenance .................................................................................21
Transportation & Storage ...............................................................28
Troubleshooting Guide ...................................................................29
Specifications ...............................................................................30
Wiring Diagram .............................................................................31
Exploded View & Parts List ............................................................32
Warranty Statement ......................................................................41
KEY SPECIFICATIONS
Wattage 1800 Rated Watts, 2250 Surge Watts
Frequency 60Hz
Rated Voltage AC: 120V, DC: 5V
Rated Amperage AC: 15A, DC: 1A (Top), 2.1A (Bottom)
Engine OHV, 4 stroke, single cylinder, 79.7cc
Fuel Tank Capacity 1 US gallon (3.8 L), 87 octane minimum
Oil Capacity 11.8 fl. oz. (0.35 L)
Half-Load Run Time 6 hours
Dimensions 19 x 11.5 x 18.2 in. (L x W x H)
Weight 48.5 lbs
2
Your WEN 56225i generator is compatible with the WEN 56421 Parallel Connection
Kit and the WEN 55201 Magnetic Oil Dipstick, availble at wenproducts.com

SERIAL NUMBER
INTRODUCTION
THANKS FOR PURCHASING THE WEN GENERATOR.
Refer to the illustration below for the location of the serial number. Record the generator information in the
spaces provided below. If assistance for information or service is required, please contact the Customer
Service Help Line by calling 800-232-1195, M-F 8-5 CST; you will be asked to provide the following gen-
erator information when calling.
GENERATOR MODEL NUMBER: WEN 56225i
DATE OF PURCHASE: __________________________________________
PURCHASED FROM: ___________________________________________
SERIAL NUMBER: _____________________________________________
SERVICE RECORD
Record the service dates of your generator in the chart below. Please perform maintenance checks and
operations according to the “MAINTENANCE” section of the manual.
Service Record Date Date Date Date Date Date
Change Oil
Change Spark Plug
Clean Fuel Tank
Clean Air Cleaner
Clean Spark Arrestor
TO MAXIMIZE THE LIFESPAN OF YOUR GENERATOR:
We recommend running your generator at least ONCE A MONTH for 15 to 30 minutes. Start the genera-
tor according to the instructions and plug a small load in to make sure the outlet is producing electricity.
3

DANGER: indicates a hazard, which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING: indicates a hazard, which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION: indicates a hazard, which, if not avoided, might result in minor or moderate injury.
CAUTION: when used without the alert symbol, indicates a situation that could result in damage to
the machine.
QUESTIONS? PROBLEMS?
In order to answer questions and solve problems in the most efficient and speedy manner, contact Cus-
tomer Service at [phone], M-F 8-5 CST or email [email protected].
SAFETY SYMBOLS
The purpose of following safety symbols is to attract your attention to possible dangers. The safety sym-
bols, and their explanations, deserve your careful attention and understanding. The safety warnings do not
by themselves eliminate any danger. The instructions or warnings they give are not substitutes for proper
accident prevention measures.
SAFETY INTRODUCTION
Safety is a combination of common sense, staying alert, and knowing how your tool works. This manual
contains important information regarding the generator’s potential safety concerns, as well as preparation,
operation, and maintenance instructions. Before operating this generator, be sure to read and observe all
warnings and instructions both on the generator labels and in this instruction manual. Failure to follow all
instructions listed below may result in personal injury.
NOTE: The following safety information is not meant to cover all possible conditions and situations that may
occur. WEN reserves the right to change this product and specifications at any time without prior notice.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS - Please keep this manual available to all users during the entire life of
the tool. Review it frequently to maximize safety for both yourself and others.
SAFETY INFORMATION
WARNING: Before operating the generator, make sure to read all safety warnings and all instruc-
tions. Failure to follow the warnings and instructions may result in electric shock, fire or serious injury.
NOTICE REGARDING EMISSIONS
Engines that are certified to comply with U.S. EPA emission regulations for SORE (Small Off Road Equip-
ment), are certified to operate on regular unleaded gasoline, and may include the following emission control
systems: (EM) Engine Modifications and (TWC) Three-Way Catalyst (if so equipped).
4

California Proposition 65 WARNING: This product contains chemicals and produces exhaust
known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects and other reproductive harm.
WARNING: If this generator is used as a supply for a BUILDING’S WIRING SYSTEM, the generator
MUST be installed by a qualified electrician and connected to a transfer switch as a separately derived
system in accordance with all applicable laws and electrical codes and the National Electrical Code,
NFPA 70. The generator shall be connected to a transfer switch that switches all conductors exclud-
ing the equipment grounding conductor. The frame of the generator shall be connected to an approved
grounding electrode.
WARNING: RISK OF EXPLOSION. HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: This generator may emit highly flam-
mable and explosive gasoline vapors, which can cause severe burns or even death, if ignited. A nearby
open flame can lead to explosion even if not directly in contact with gasoline.
• Do not operate near open flame.
• Do not smoke near generator.
• Always operate on a firm, level surface.
• Always turn generator off before refueling. Allow generator to cool for at least 2 minutes before re-
moving fuel cap. Loosen cap slowly to relieve pressure in tank.
• Do not overfill fuel tank. Gasoline may expand during operation. Do not fill to the top of the tank. Allow
for expansion.
• Always check for spilled fuel before operating.
• Empty fuel tank before storing or transporting the generator.
• Before transporting, turn fuel valve to OFF and disconnect spark plug wire.
GENERATOR SAFETY WARNINGS
DANGER: CARBON MONOXIDE
Using a generator indoors CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES. Generator exhaust contains carbon monox-
ide (CO). This is a poison gas you cannot see or smell. If you can smell the generator exhaust, you are
breathing CO. But even if you cannot smell the exhaust, you could be breathing CO.
NEVER use a generator inside homes, garages, crawl spaces, or other partially enclosed areas. Deadly
levels of carbon monoxide can build up in these areas. Using a fan or opening windows and doors does
NOT supply enough fresh air. ONLY use a generator OUTSIDE and far away from windows, doors, and
vents. These openings can pull in generator exhaust.
Even if you use a generator correctly, CO may leak into the home. ALWAYS use a battery-powered or
battery-backup CO alarm in the home. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak after the generator has
been running, move to fresh air RIGHT AWAY. See a doctor. You may have carbon monoxide poisoning.
5

GENERATOR SAFETY WARNINGS
OPERATING ENVIRONMENT
1. Using a generator indoors can kill you in minutes. Only use a generator outside and far away from win-
dows, doors and vents.
2. Do not operate near open flame or flammable materials. This generator may emit highly flammable and
explosive gasoline vapors, which can cause severe burns or even death if ignited. A nearby open flame can
lead to explosion even if it isn’t directly in contact with gasoline.
3. Do not smoke near the generator.
4. Do not use the generator in rainy or wet conditions; doing so significantly increases the risk of electrical
shock.
5. Always operate the generator on a dry, firm, level surface.
6. Do not allow children or non-qualified persons to operate the generator.
GENERATOR PREPARATION
1. Always ground the generator before using it to maximize safety (see “GROUND THE GENERATOR” section
on page 13).
2. Do not overfill fuel tank, as gasoline may expand during operation. Do not fill to the very top of the tank.
Leave room for gasoline expansion. Always check for spilled fuel before operating.
3. If any part of the generator or electrical device is broken, damaged, or defective, make sure it is repaired
or replaced before operation. Service should only be performed by a qualified technician. Do not use recep-
tacles or cords that show signs of damage, such as broken or cracked insulation.
4. Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) in highly conductive areas such as metal decking or steel
work. Extension cords with in-line GFCIs are recommended for these operations to maximize safety.
5. NEVER connect the generator to a building’s electrical system without consulting a qualified electrician.
Such connections must comply with local electrical laws and codes. Failure to comply can create a back-
feed, which may result in serious injury or death to utility workers.
WARNING: Do not let comfort or familiarity with the product replace strict adherence to product
safety rules. Failure to follow the safety instructions may result in serious personal injury.
6

GENERATOR SAFETY WARNINGS
GENERATOR OPERATION
1. Only use the generator for its intended purposes. Modifying or using the generator for operations for
which it was not designed may cause hazards and personal injury.
2. Do not touch bare wires or receptacles (outlets).
3. Do not exceed the wattage capacity of the generator by plugging in more electrical devices than the unit
can handle.
4. Allow generator to run for several minutes before connecting electrical devices.
5. Do not turn ON electrical devices until after they are connected to the generator.
6. Generators vibrate in normal use. During and after the use of the generator, inspect both the generator as
well as extension and power supply cords for damage resulting from vibration.
7. Do not touch HOT PARTS. This generator produces heat when running. Temperatures near exhaust can
exceed 150º F (65º C). Allow generator to cool down after use before touching engine or areas of the gen-
erator that become hot during use.
8. Turn off all connected electrical devices before stopping the generator.
9. Always turn generator off before refueling. Allow generator to cool for at least 2 minutes before removing
fuel cap. Loosen cap slowly to relieve pressure in tank.
10. Turn the engine switch to “OFF” position when the engine is not running.
11. Empty fuel tank before storing or transporting the generator. Do not store generator or gasoline near
furnaces, water heaters, or any other appliances that produce heat or have automatic ignitions. Store the
generator and fuel away from sparks, open flames, pilot lights, heat and other sources of ignition.
CAUTION: Misuse of this generator can damage it or shorten its lifespan.
TO MAXIMIZE THE LIFESPAN OF YOUR GENERATOR:
We recommend running your generator at least once a month for 15 to 30 minutes. Start the generator
according to the instructions and plug a small load in to make sure the outlet is producing electricity.
If you do not run it often, it will greatly shorten the generator’s lifespan and void the warranty.
7

Place the generator packaging on a sturdy, flat surface. Carefully unpack the generator and all accessories
from the box, making sure it is completely empty before discarding the package.
Use the illustration below to become familiar with all the components and controls of this generator. If any
part is damaged or missing, please contact our customer service at [phone], M-F 8-5 CST or email
us at [email protected].
KNOW YOUR GENERATOR
Use the illustration below to become familiar with this generator. If any part is damaged or missing, please
contact our customer service at [phone], M-F 8-5 CST or email [email protected].
Recoil Starter
Ventilation Slots
Carrying Handle
Control Panel
Fuel Cap
Vacuum Relief Valve
Oil Access Cover
Fuel Gauge
Spark Plug Cover
Service Panel
8

KNOW YOUR GENERATOR
Low Oil Indicator (Green)
Overload Indicator (Red)
Output Indicator
(Yellow)
AC 120V Duplex
NEMA 5-20R
DC 5V USB Outlet
Grounding Nut
Parallel Connection Ports
Manual Shut Off
Switch
3-in-1 Dial Switch
(CHOKE, RUN, OFF)
Reset Button
CONTROL PANEL
Eco-Mode Switch
ECO-MODE
ON OFF
MANUAL
SHUT OFF
CHOKE
PARALLEL CONNECT
RESET AC 120V
GROUNDING
DC 5V
RUN
OFF
9

GENERATOR PREPARATION
The following section describes the necessary steps to prepare the generator for use. If you are unsure
about how to perform any of the steps please call [phone] M-F 8-5 CST for customer service. Fail-
ure to perform these steps properly can damage the generator or shorten its life.
STEP 1 - ADD/CHECK OIL
The generator is shipped without oil. User must add the proper amount of oil before operating the generator
for the first time. The oil capacity of the engine crankcase is 11.8 fl. oz (0.35 L).
Oil Dipstick
Lower Level
Fill Line
Upper Level
Fill Line
To add oil, follow these steps:
1. Place the generator on a level surface. Make sure the engine is
OFF before adding or checking oil.
2. Using a coin, turn the oil access cover screw 1/4 turn
clockwise, then remove the access cover from the service panel.
Then, unscrew the oil dipstick from the engine.
3. Using an oil funnel or appropriate dispenser, slowly add oil into
the oil fill (Fig. 2), being careful not to overfill the unit. Fill the
crank case to the upper fill line so you can visually see the oil
coming halfway up the oil fill threads (Fig. 3).
4. Reinstall the oil dipstick and firmly tighten it. Wipe clean any
spilled oil.
5. Reinstall the oil access cover. Using a coin, turn the screw 1/4
turn counterclockwise to secure it in place.
32
-30 -20 -10 0 10 20 30
-20 0 20 40 60 80 100
40
°F
°C
Synthetic 5W-30
30
10W-30
• 30W engine oil for tempera-
tures above 40°F.
• 10W-30 engine oil for temper-
atures between 0°F - 40°F.
• Synthetic 5W-30 engine oil for
all temperature ranges.
ENGINE OIL RECOMMENDATIONS - Select good quality detergent oil bearing the American Petro-
leum Institute (API) service classifications SJ, SL, or SM (synthetic oils may be used). Select the SAE
viscosity grade of oil that matches the expected operating temperature. For general use (above 40° F),
we recommend 30W engine oil.
Fig. 1 - Oil Recommendation Chart
Fig. 2
Fig. 3
10
CAUTION: Keep the generator level! Tilting the generator to
assist in filling will cause oil to flow into the engine areas and
will cause damage.

GENERATOR PREPARATION
For subsequent operation, the oil level should be checked before each use, or after every 8 hours of opera-
tion. The generator is equipped with a low-oil sensor and will NOT start without a sufficient amount of oil.
Low Oil
Indicator
Upper Limit
Lower Limit
Fig. 4
Fig. 5
To check oil level (before every subsequent start):
1. Place the generator on a level surface. Make sure the engine is OFF
before adding or checking oil.
2. Open the oil access cover. Remove and wipe the dipstick with a
clean rag.
3. Insert the dipstick into the oil fill without screwing it in. Remove the
dipstick to check the oil mark (Fig. 4).
If the oil mark covers less than one half of the dipstick, slowly add oil
until the oil mark reaches to the top of the dipstick (or when you can
see the oil coming halfway up the oil fill threads).
4. Wipe clean any oil leaks and firmly tighten the dipstick. Reinstall
the oil access cover.
OIL LEVEL SHUTDOWN
To protect the unit from damage, the generator is equipped with a
low-oil-pressure shutoff that will automatically stop the engine when
the oil level is too low. The low oil indication light (yellow) will turn on
to remind you that the engine oil level is low and need to be refilled.
The oil level of the engine should be checked before each start to
ensure that the engine crankcase contains sufficient lubricant.
11
TIP: Your WEN generator is compatible with the WEN 55201 Magnetic Oil Dipstick (not included), avail-
able for purchase at wenproducts.com. The dipstick’s industrial-strength magnetic tip will collect metal
shavings from your generator’s oil tank to help preserve the engine and extend your generator’s lifespan.

GENERATOR PREPARATION
STEP 2 - ADD/CHECK FUEL
IMPORTANT:
• Never use an oil/gasoline mixture.
• Never use old gasoline.
• Keep gasoline away from sparks, open
flames, pilot lights, heat and other sources
of ignition.
• Avoid getting dirt or water into the fuel
tank.
• Gasoline can age in the tank and make
starting difficult. Never store generator for
more than 2 months with fuel in the tank.
Fig. 6
GASOLINE WARNING: Keep generator away from open flame. This generator may emit highly
flammable and explosive gasoline vapors, which can cause severe burns or even death if ignited. A
nearby open flame can lead to explosion even if not directly in contact with gasoline.
• Do not operate near open flame.
• Do not smoke near the generator.
• Always operate on a firm, level surface.
• Always turn generator off before refueling. Allow generator to cool for at least 2 minutes before re-
moving fuel cap. Loosen cap slowly to relieve pressure in tank.
• Do not overfill fuel tank. Fuel may expand during operation. Do not fill to the top of the tank. Allow for
expansion.
• Always check for spilled fuel before operating. Clean up any spilled fuel before starting.
• Empty fuel tank before storing or transporting the generator to prevent spilling.
Use ONLY fresh (within 30 days from purchase), lead-free gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane rating.
The generator performs best with ethanol-free gasoline. DO NOT use gasoline with over 10% ethanol.
The capacity of the fuel tank is 1 gallon. DO NOT mix oil with gasoline.
To add gasoline, follow these steps:
1. Make sure the generator is shut OFF and on a level
surface. Unscrew the fuel cap (Fig. 6) and set it aside. The
fuel cap may be tight and hard to unscrew.
2. Slowly add unleaded gasoline to the fuel tank. Be care-
ful not to overfill.
NOTE: Do not fill the fuel tank to the very top. If you do so,
gasoline will expand and spill during use, even with the
fuel cap in place.
4. Reinstall fuel cap and wipe clean any spilled gasoline
with a dry cloth.
To check fuel level
(before every subsequent start):
Before starting the generator, check the fuel gauge to
see if there is sufficient fuel inside the tank. “E” indicates
Empty and “F” indicates Full. Refill the fuel tank as nec-
essary.
Fuel Cap
Fuel Gauge
12

GENERATOR PREPARATION
After completing the above preparation, the generator is ready to be started.
STEP 3 - GROUND THE GENERATOR
To reduce the risk of electric shock and to maximize safety, the
generator should be properly grounded.
Ground the generator by tightening the grounding nut on the front
control panel (Fig. 7) against a grounding wire. A generally accept-
able grounding wire is a No. 12 AWG (American Wire Gauge)
stranded copper wire.
This grounding wire should be connected at the other end to a cop-
per, brass, or steel-grounding rod that is driven into the earth. Wire
and grounding rods are not included with the generator.
Grounding Nut
WARNING: Failure to properly ground the generator increases your risk of electric shock.
Fig. 7
NOTE: Grounding codes can vary by location. Contact a local electrician to check the area codes.
HIGH ALTITUDE OPERATION ABOVE 3000 FEET
The fuel system on this generator may be affected by operation at high altitudes. Proper operation can be
ensured by installing an altitude kit at altitudes higher than 3000 feet above sea level. At elevations above
8000 feet, the engine may experience a decrease in performance, even with the proper altitude kit. Operat-
ing this generator without said kit may increase the engine’s emissions and decrease both fuel economy
and performance.
This kit should be installed by a qualified mechanic. You can order the kit at wenproducts.com by search-
ing part 56200i-HA36 for 3000 to 6000 feet above sea level or 56200i-HA68 for 6000 to 8000 feet above
sea level. Refer to the instructions included with your altitude kit for more information about installation.
WARNING: To prevent serious injury from fire, follow the kit installation procedures in a well-ven-
tilated area away from ignition sources. If the engine is hot from use, shut the engine off and wait for it
to cool before proceeding. Do not smoke near the generator. Warranty will be void if adjustments are not
made for high altitude use.
CAUTION: Engines with the high-altitude kit installed operated at lower altitudes could cause severe
engine damage and affect emissions compliance. Be sure to UNINSTALL the high altitude kit when op-
erating at altitudes below 2000 feet.
13

STARTING THE GENERATOR
To maximize safety, ALWAYS ground the generator before using it (see the “GROUND THE GENERATOR” sec-
tion on page 13).
Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) in highly conductive areas such as metal decking or steel work.
GFCIs are available in-line with some extension cords.
CAUTION: Disconnect all electrical loads from the generator before attempting to start.
DANGER: CARBON MONOXIDE
Using a generator indoors CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES. Generator exhaust contains carbon monox-
ide (CO). This is a poison gas you cannot see or smell. If you can smell the generator exhaust, you are
breathing CO. But even if you cannot smell the exhaust, you could be breathing CO.
NEVER use a generator inside homes, garages, crawl spaces, or other partially enclosed areas. Deadly
levels of carbon monoxide can build up in these areas. Using a fan or opening windows and doors does
NOT supply enough fresh air. ONLY use a generator OUTSIDE and far away from windows, doors, and
vents. These openings can pull in generator exhaust.
Even if you use a generator correctly, CO may leak into the home. ALWAYS use a battery-powered or
battery-backup CO alarm in the home. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak after the generator has
been running, move to fresh air RIGHT AWAY. See a doctor. You may have carbon monoxide poisoning.
WARNING: The exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to
cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
WARNING: DO NOT operate generator near open flame or flammable materials This generator
may emit highly flammable and explosive gasoline vapors, which can cause severe burns or even death
if ignited. A nearby open flame can lead to explosion even if it isn’t directly in contact with gasoline. Do
not smoke near the generator.
WARNING: This generator produces powerful voltage, which can result in electrocution.
WARNING: Do not use in rainy or wet conditions. Do not touch bare wires or receptacles (outlets).
Do not allow children or non-qualified persons to operate.
WARNING: Generator should ONLY be connected to electrical devices, either directly or with an
extension cord. NEVER CONNECT TO A BUILDING ELECTRICAL SYSTEM without a qualified electrician
and connected to a transfer switch as a separately derived system. Such connections must comply with
local electrical laws and codes. Failure to comply can create a back-feed, which may result in serious
injury or death to utility workers.
14

STARTING YOUR GENERATOR
Before starting the generator, check the following:
1. Place the generator outside on a dry, level surface. Allow at least
two feet of clearance on all sides of the generator.
2. Make sure all electrical devices are unplugged from the genera-
tor during ignition. Otherwise it will be difficult for the engine to
start.
3. To maximize safety, check that the generator is properly ground-
ed (see “GROUND THE GENERATOR” section).
4. Check there is sufficient level of oil in the crankcase. Add oil if
necessary (refer to “ADD/CHECK OIL” section).
5. Make sure there is sufficient level of gasoline in the fuel tank.
Add fuel if necessary (refer to “ADD/CHECK FUEL” section).
To start the generator, perform the following steps:
1. Turn the ECO-MODE (Fig. 8 - 1) switch to “OFF” during starting.
2. Open the vacuum relief valve (Fig. 9 ) on top of fuel cap by rotat-
ing it clockwise to the “ON” position. This will allow fuel to flow.
3. Turn the 3-in-1 dial switch (Fig. 8 - 2) to the “CHOKE” position.
4. Place one hand on the generator to hold it in place, and pull on
the recoil starter handle slowly until a slight resistance is felt (Fig.
10). Then pull quickly to start the engine. Return cord gently into
the machine. Never allow the cord to snap back.
5. If engine fails to start, repeat step 4.
NOTE: After repeated failed attempts to start the engine, please
consult the troubleshooting guide before attempting again. If prob-
lems persist please call [phone] M-F 8-5 CST.
Before starting the generator, make sure you have read and performed the steps in the “Generator Prepara-
tion” section of this manual. If you are unsure about how to perform any of the steps in this manual please
call [phone] M-F 8-5 CST for customer service.
6. After the engine has started, turn the 3-in-1 switch (Fig. 8 - 2) to
the “RUN” position. The output indicator (green) will light up.
7. Allow the generator to run for several minutes before attempt-
ing to connect any electrical devices. This allows the generator to
stabilize its speed and temperature.
ECO-MODE
ON OFF
MANUAL
SHUT OFF
CHOKE
PARALLEL CONNECT
RESET AC 120V
GROUNDING
DC 5V
RUN
OFF
Fig. 8
Fig. 9
Fig. 10
1
2
Vacuum Relief Valve
15

USING THE GENERATOR
CALCULATING THE WATTAGE OF YOUR DEVICE(S)
Connect electrical devices running on AC current according to their wattage requirements. Calculate the
running wattage and starting wattage of the device(s) you wish to connect, and MAKE SURE that they are
within the capacity of your generator.
Generator
Wattage
Capacity
Generator Running (Rated) Watts Generator Starting (Surge) Watts
1800W 2250W
What this means:
The generator can produce a maximum
of 1800W on a continuous basis to supply
the running wattage requirement of your
electronic device(s).
What this means:
Some devices such as box fans require
short bursts of extra power in addition to
the rated wattage listed by the device to
start their motors.
The generator can produce a maximum
wattage of 2250W for a short period of
time (seconds) to cover the extra start-
ing power requirement of your electronic
device(s).
Electronic
Device Wattage
Calculation
Find the wattage information of each device you plan to connect. The information
should be listed on the device or in its instruction manual, or you may refer to Fig. 11.
The wattage can be calculated using this equation:
Watts = Volts x Amperes
To calculate the total running watts of
your devices:
+ Add up the running wattages of all the
device(s) you plan to connect
= The total running wattage
This wattage should NOT exceed the gen-
erator’s running wattage of 1800W.
It is recommended to maintain a load at
or below 1620W (90% of the generator’s
rated output) to ensure steady voltage out-
put and to prolong the generator’s lifespan.
To calculate the total starting watts of
your devices:
+ Add up the total running wattage of all
the device(s) you plan to connect
+ Add the single highest ADDITIONAL
starting wattage out of the device(s) you
plan to connect
= The total surge (starting) wattage
This wattage should NOT exceed the gen-
erator’s starting wattage of 2250W.
If any of either of the total calculated running watts or starting watts is higher than the
capacity of your generator, adjust the load until both wattage requirements are met.
Otherwise you will overload the generator, and cause damage to the engine and your
electrical device(s).
16

USING THE GENERATOR
The chart below serves as a reference for the estimated wattage requirements of common electrical de-
vices. However, do not solely rely on this chart - all electronics and appliances are built differently. Always
check the wattage listed on the electrical device before consulting this chart.
Once the total wattage of your electronic device(s) have been calculated, follow the instructions on
the following pages to properly connect the device(s) to the generator.
Fig. 11 - Estimated wattage requirements of common electrical devices
Tool or Appliance Rated (Running) Watts Additional Starting Watts
Saw - circular 1500 0
Space heater 1300 0
Microwave 1000 0
Well water pump 1000 1000
Saw - reciprocating 960 1040
Sump pump 800 1200
Refrigerator/Freezer 800 1200
Furnace blower 800 1300
Computer 800 0
Electric drill 600 900
Television 500 0
Garage door opener 480 0
Stereo 400 0
Box fan 300 600
Clock radio 300 0
Security system 180 0
DVD player / VCR 100 0
Common light bulb 75 0
Inflator 50 150
17

USING THE GENERATOR
NOTE: When operating a single generator, DO NOT exceed 15A (1800 running watts) on the NEMA 5-20 re-
ceptacles. The NEMA 5-20R capable of connecting devices up to 20A ONLY when two generators are paral-
lel connected (see “PARALLEL OPERATION”).
Low Oil Indicator
Overload Indicator
Output Indicator
AC 120V Duplex
NEMA 5-20R
DC 5V USB Outlet
1A (top)/2.1A (bottom)
Grounding Nut
Parallel Connection Ports
Manual Shut-Off
Switch
3-in-1 Dial Switch
(CHOKE, RUN, OFF)
Overload
Reset Button
Eco-Mode Switch
ECO-MODE
ON OFF
MANUAL
SHUT OFF
CHOKE
PARALLEL CONNECT
RESET AC 120V
GROUNDING
DC 5V
RUN
OFF
KNOW YOUR CONTROL PANEL
Become familiar with the functions and capacity of each component on the control panel.
ECO-MODE SWITCH
This generator is equipped with an Eco-Mode Idle Control Switch. Engaging this switch allows the system to
regulate the engine speed and automatically adjust its fuel consumption to match the required load. When
the electrical load changes, the generator engine will automatically speed up and slow down as needed. This
reduces fuel consumption and noise levels, while extending runtime and engine’s lifespan.
Keep this switch engaged ONLY when the power load requirement is LESS THAN 1350W (75% of the rated
watts). Do not engage the Eco-Mode Switch when the total load is more than 1350W. The generator engine
must run at full speed to supply power for anything over 1350W.
Fig. 12 - Control Panel
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USING THE GENERATOR
CONNECTING ELECTRICAL DEVICES
CAUTION: Become familiar with the markings on the panel before connecting electrical devices. The
120V AC receptacles are for connecting electrical devices that run on 120V, 60 Hz, single phase, AC cur-
rent. DO NOT connect 50Hz or 3-phase loads to the generator.
Follow the steps below to properly connect your device(s) to the generator:
1. Before connecting electrical devices, allow the generator to run for a few minutes to stabilize the speed
and voltage output.
2. Select the device with the highest wattage, and make sure it is turned off. Plug the device into the genera-
tor and then turn the device on. Allow the engine to stabilize.
3. Repeat step 2 to plug in each additional device. DO NOT attempt to plug in or start multiple devices at the
same time.
PARALLEL OPERATION
The parallel connection ports allow you to connect two WEN generators to increase the total available electri-
cal power. The WEN 56421 Parallel Connection Kit can be purchased from wenproducts.com. Follow the
instructions included with your parallel connection kit for proper installation and operation.
IN CASE OF OVERLOAD
If your generator becomes overloaded from too much drawn wattage, the overload indicator (red) on the con-
trol panel will light up, and the overload reset button on your control panel may activate and cut off the output.
When an overload occurs, reduce the load by turning off and unplugging your electronic device(s), then press
the reset button to reset your generator. If no power is produced after resetting, restart your generator.
• 4% to 10% over rated watts: overload light will flash to indicate overload
• 10% to 18% over rated watts: overload light will stay on for 16 seconds, and then output will be cut off
• More than 18% over rated watts: overload light will stay on for 3 seconds, and then output will be cut off
Device Requirements Max. Cord Length (ft) by Wire Gauge
Amps Watts (120V) #8 wire #10 wire #12 wire #14 wire #16 wire
2.5 300 NR NR NR 375 250
5 600 NR NR 300 200 125
7.5 900 NR 350 200 125 100
10 1200 NR 250 150 100 50
15 1800 NR 150 100 65 NR
SOME NOTES ABOUT POWER CORDS
Long or thin extension cords can drain the power provided to your electrical devices. Refer to the following
chart in determining the necessary gauge extension cord for each of your devices. Round up to the higher
amperage in the chart to maximize safety.
Fig. 13 - Power Cord Requirement Guide
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SHUTTING OFF THE GENERATOR
WARNING: Allow the generator to cool down before touching areas that become hot during use.
OPTION 1: FUEL SHUT OFF (RECOMMENDED)
1. Turn off all electrical devices prior to unplugging them from
the generator. Unplugging running devices can cause damage
to the generator.
2. Allow generator to run at no load for a few minutes to stabi-
lize internal temperatures.
3. Turn the engine switch to the “OFF” position (Fig. 14 - 1).
4. Close the vacuum relief valve on the top of the fuel cap by
rotating it counterclockwise to the “OFF” position.
5. The engine will continue to run until the majority of the fuel
in the carburetor is consumed. The engine will then shut off
automatically. This helps prevent the carburetor from being
clogged by stale fuel, extending your generator’s lifespan.
CAUTION: Unplugging running devices can cause damage to the generator. Never stop the engine
with electrical devices connected and running.
CAUTION: Allowing gasoline to sit in the fuel tank for long periods of time can make it difficult to start
the generator in the future. Never store the generator for extended periods of time (over 2 months) with
fuel in the fuel tank. Refer to “STORING THE GENERATOR”.
ECO-MODE
ON OFF
MANUAL
SHUT OFF
CHOKE
PARALLEL CONNECT
RESET AC 120V
GROUNDING
DC 5V
RUN
OFF
Fig. 14
OPTION 2: MANUAL SHUT OFF (IN CASE OF EMERGENCY)
1. Turn off all electrical devices prior to unplugging them from the generator. Unplugging running devices can
cause damage to the generator.
2. Press the “MANUAL SHUT OFF” switch and hold it down in the “OFF” position for about 10 seconds until
the engine shuts off.
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