Westinghouse 12500 Watt Portable Generator: In-Depth Review

The Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a high-performance, versatile generator designed to offer reliable power in a wide range of settings. Whether you need backup power for your home during an outage, electricity for a construction site, or power for a recreational vehicle, this portable generator can meet your needs. In this detailed review, we will cover its features, performance, usability, and overall value for money to help you make an informed decision.

Key Features of the Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Generator

The Westinghouse WGen9500DF is a powerful dual fuel generator that can run on either gasoline or propane. This feature enhances its versatility and ensures that users can always find a suitable fuel source. Below are the main specifications and features of the generator:

Power Output and Fuel Options

• Gasoline:
  • Running watts: 9500 watts
  • Peak watts: 12500 watts
• Propane:
  • Running watts: 8500 watts
  • Peak watts: 11200 watts

These wattages are ideal for powering a variety of household appliances, tools, and electronics, making it a suitable option for both home use and outdoor activities.

Heavy Duty Engine

The generator is powered by a 457cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine. This engine features a long-lasting cast iron sleeve, which improves the overall durability of the generator. The engine is designed to run efficiently, providing long hours of power. The automatic low oil shutdown feature ensures that the engine won’t be damaged by running with insufficient oil, making it a safe and reliable option.

Run Time and Fuel Capacity

With a 6.6-gallon fuel tank, the Westinghouse generator provides up to 12 hours of run time on gasoline. This run time is substantial for most users, especially during power outages or camping trips, reducing the need for frequent refueling. The fuel gauge allows for easy monitoring of the remaining fuel, making it more convenient for long-duration use.

Start Mechanism

One of the standout features of the WGen9500DF is its remote start functionality. The generator comes with a key fob that allows users to start the unit from a distance. This is particularly useful for starting the generator without having to walk to the unit itself. The electric start system makes turning the generator on even easier, while the recoil start is available as a backup if the battery for the electric start is not charged.

Control Panel and Outlets

The control panel of the Westinghouse generator is intuitive and user-friendly. It features a Transfer Switch Ready 120V L14-30R outlet for powering large appliances and tools. Additionally, the generator has an RV-ready 120/240V 14–50R outlet for campers and motorhomes. The generator also includes two GFCI 120V 5–20R standard household receptacles, which can be used to power small appliances and electronics. All outlets are equipped with rubber covers to protect them from dust and moisture, ensuring safety during operation.

The VFT Data Center provides real-time updates on the generator’s voltage output, frequency, and lifetime hours. This information allows users to keep track of the generator’s performance and plan for maintenance when needed.

Portability and Design

Despite its powerful engine and heavy-duty features, the Westinghouse 12500 Watt Generator is designed to be portable. It is equipped with never-flat wheels, a handle, and a lift bracket, making it easy to transport and move around, even by a single person. This portability is particularly useful when you need to take the generator to different locations, such as on job sites or camping trips.

Safety Features

The WGen9500DF includes several built-in safety features. The automatic low oil shutdown prevents engine damage by stopping the generator if oil levels get too low. Additionally, the generator’s outlets are GFCI-protected to safeguard against electrical faults. The inclusion of a digital hour meter allows users to track the generator’s usage, which helps in maintaining the generator for optimal performance.

Warranty and Customer Support

The Westinghouse 12500 Watt Portable Generator comes with a 3-year limited warranty, covering parts and labor. Westinghouse also provides nationwide customer support, ensuring that users can get assistance with any issues they might encounter. This warranty and customer support network add significant value to the product, providing peace of mind to buyers.

Pros of the Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Generator

1. Dual Fuel Flexibility

One of the most significant advantages of this generator is its dual fuel capability. It can run on either gasoline or propane, giving users more flexibility when it comes to choosing a fuel source. This is especially useful during emergencies when gasoline may be hard to come by, or if you want to use a more environmentally friendly fuel like propane.

2. High Power Output

With a peak output of 12,500 watts on gasoline and 11,200 watts on propane, the generator is powerful enough to run multiple appliances at once. This makes it ideal for both emergency backup power and for outdoor use, such as powering tools or RV appliances.

3. Easy Start and Operation

The remote start and electric start options make the generator incredibly easy to start. The key fob allows users to start the generator from a distance, which is particularly useful when the generator is placed far from the house or in hard-to-reach areas. The electric start simplifies the process, reducing the effort needed to get the generator up and running.

4. Extended Run Time

With a 6.6-gallon fuel tank, the generator offers up to 12 hours of run time on gasoline. This makes it suitable for overnight power outages or long trips without needing to refuel frequently.

5. Robust Design and Portability

Despite its power, the Westinghouse generator is designed to be portable. The inclusion of never-flat wheels and a lift bracket allows for easy transportation, making it highly convenient for users who need to move it around.

6. Safety and Maintenance Features

The generator is equipped with several safety features, such as automatic low oil shutdown and GFCI outlets. The digital hour meter and VFT display also help users monitor the generator’s performance and maintenance needs.

Cons of the Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Generator

1. Noise Level

While many users find the Westinghouse generator quieter than expected, some have noted that it can still be quite noisy, especially when running at full capacity. This is common with high-powered generators, but it may be a consideration if you are looking for a quieter option for your neighborhood or campsite.

2. Weight

At 210 pounds, the Westinghouse 12500 Watt Generator is relatively heavy compared to other portable generators. However, the inclusion of wheels and a handle mitigates this issue to some extent, making it easier to move around despite its weight.

3. Initial Setup

Though the generator is plug-and-play and comes with everything you need to get started, the initial setup may require a bit of time and effort. Some users may need help with the assembly, particularly when attaching the wheels and handles.

Conclusion

The Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator offers an impressive combination of power, convenience, and portability. Its ability to run on both gasoline and propane makes it highly versatile, while its high power output can handle a wide range of appliances and tools. The remote start, electric start, and long run time enhance its usability, while its portability and safety features make it a reliable choice for home use, camping, and job sites.

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