In a few words, the WEN DF480iX is a compact portable inverter generator perfectly suited for:
- RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level
- People occasionally participating in sporting competitions, open-air performances and outdoor festivals
- Homeowners who want to be sure of their ability to power their fridges, cooking tools, heating and lighting equipment during power failures
- Camping and tailgating buffs looking to enhance their experience
Over the following sections, you'll uncover its power characteristics, the selection of outlets it offers, its overall portability, and the supplementary features it includes.
Power & Run Time
Delivering 120V, the WEN DF480iX is enhanced by dual-fuel technology, providing power and versatility. Running on gasoline, it boasts a running wattage of 4,000W and a starting wattage of 4,800W. Alternatively, when propane-powered, it delivers 3,600 running watts and 4,320 starting watts. Furthermore, the parallel capability (parallel kit (opens in a new tab) not included) offers the advantage of increasing power output when connected to another similar or compatible unit, delivering expanded energy capacity and flexibility for various applications.
WEN’s Auto Fuel Selection technology automatically selects the fuel source (LPG or gasoline) depending on availability and prioritizes LPG. Thus, if a propane tank with enough LPG is connected, the generator will automatically use LPG. If no propane tank is connected, or if there is not enough LPG remaining in the tank, the generator will use gasoline.
At a noise rating of 62 dBA (just slightly more noisy than an office), this inverter generator provides the choice between a standard recoil pull-rope starting mechanism or an easy-to-use and reliable electric starter (battery included) for starting.
With a fuel capacity of 1.9 gallon, the DF480iX can operate for around 7 hours at 50% load using gasoline (fuel consumption around 0.27 GPH), or for around 20 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.24 GPH) using propane.
Sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets, as the DF480iX produces a clean sine wave, with a <1.2% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).
Outlets
The control panel features the following 5 AC outlets:
Two Duplexes 120V 20A (5-20R)
120V 30A (TT-30R) receptacle
Additionally, it offers 3 DC outlets: there's two 5V USB ports (USB-A) designed for hassle-free charging of various electronic devices such as smartphones and tablets, ensuring uninterrupted usage and a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle making battery charging a breeze.
The inclusion of a TT-30R receptacle (TT for 'Travel Trailer') makes this WEN generator RV Ready, ideal for providing power to recreational vehicles.
Portability
The WEN DF480iX's characteristic encased inverter generator design (L23.8 x W12.6 x H22.1 in) provides an aesthetic advantage and contributes to quieter operation compared to any ordinary, open frame product. This modern design aims to provide an ideal power solution to recreational users.
As the DF480iX's weight is only 78.5 lbs, it can follow you and your power needs anywhere. Additionally, its set of 2 wheels and its telecospic handle will allow for simple relovation of the generator once it's on the ground.
Features
The DF480iX's control panel
Included in the control panel of the DF480iX, a digital data center assists in tracking its status and activity by providing details on the frequency, voltage, lifetime run hours, power output and fuel level.
In addition to this info, some light indicators allow you to instantly see if the generator is overloaded, the generator is ready and its oil levels are insufficient.
The fuel shutoff feature turns off the flow of fuel, allowing for the DF480iX to use up the remaining fuel from the carburetor before automatically shutting down. This helps fight the build-up and blockages caused by stagnant fuel inside the carburetor, minimizing maintenance while prolonging the unit’s lifespan.
From a security standpoint, the product offers an overload protection (circuit breaker), an automatic low oil shut-off and a low fuel automatic shutdown, allowing you to use it with a peace of mind.
The unit also benefits from WEN's CO Watchdog carbon monoxide detection. This system measures the accumulation of poisonous CO gas while the generator is running. If the level of CO gas gets too high, the CO Watchdog system will automatically shut down the generator.
In addition to the traditional documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to help you get started promptly, the WEN DF480iX also includes several accessories: propane hose, funnel, oil and tool kit. An official storage cover is also available, as a separate purchase.
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the WEN DF480iX compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 3500 and 4500 W).
Do you own the WEN DF480iX and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?
Let us know and write your own review.
Unlike many websites, we did our best to research each of the specs above. That being said, we are not immune to making the occasional mistake or omission. Should you notice any missing or incorrect values, don't hesitate to suggest improvements so we can address the issue.
WEN Products, founded by Nick Anton in 1951, is an American power tool manufacturer and distributor, which claims to have a part in the development of modern chainsaw, soldering devices and wet sharpeners, through its research in random orbital technology. The Illinois based company expanded its distribution network to include various power tools, such as presses, drills and of course, power generators. As a distributor, WEN’s portfolio largely consists of branded products of different manufacturers, imported from Asia.
The WEN DF480iX is covered under a warranty for up to 3 years. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of WEN generators, please consult WEN's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-847-429-9263.
