Westinghouse WGen12000DF

Westinghouse WGen12000DF

This guide is a conclusive analysis and review of the Westinghouse WGen12000DF generator. This guide includes an overview of its features, the pros and cons, how it holds up against similar products, and personal recommendations.

Overview of WGen12000DF Generator

The Westinghouse WGen12000DF is a dual-fuel generator with an 11-hour run time and an electric start. It consumes 12,000 running watts and 15,000 peak watts while running on gasoline and 10,800 running watts, and 13,500 peak watts on propane.

The WGen12000DF is manufactured by the American-based company Westinghouse Electric Corporation.

Product Highlight

Westinghouse WGen12000DF

Electric Start Dual Fuel Portable

  • Starting – 15,000 W, Running – 12,000 W.
  • Dry Weight – 352 Pounds.
  • Tank Volume – 10.5 Gallons.
  • Runtime – 11 hrs at 50% load on Gasoline and 7 hrs on 50% load with 20 lbs Propane cylinder.

WGen12000DF Features & Benefits

Here is the breakdown of the features and benefits of the Generator:

Power, Output, and Runtime

The manufacturer advertises the WGen12000DF with an 11-hour run time and can effectively power larger houses with an output of 12000-15000 watts. 

But does the Generator hold up to these stats?

The answer is yes! The WGen12000DF can power most 2-3 storing houses in their entirety with great performance and a long runtime. This time will vary depending on the power consumption of a specific household, but you can generally expect 9 – 11 hours of continuous run time.

Furthermore, the Generator runs on a 10.5 gallon/40-liter gas tank and can take both propane and gasoline.

Outlets, Hookup Provisions, and Possibilities

The Generator has two 20-A 5-20R outlets for hook up of smaller appliances, a 30A L5-30R outlet for medium appliances, an L14-30R transfer switch ready outlet, and a single 14-50R outlet for larger appliances. It also has two USB outlets.

The WGen12000DF generator also has an ST switch outlet, which an ST switch can separately be purchased and will automatically switch the utility power source to your Generator when needed.

The ST switch allows for an easy connection to the breaker box. 

Furthermore, while the Generator isn’t RV ready, an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor can change that.

Starting/Remote Start

The WGen12000DF generator has an electric start and can be done in two different ways.

The first is a one-touch push-button start located on the top right of the Generator, and the other is a remote start via a key fob that comes included with the Generator.

As previously mentioned, the Generator can be connected to a breaker box through an ST switch outlet so that power can automatically transfer to the Generator.

There is also a switch that allows the user to easily change the type of fuel the Generator uses.

Portability, Dimensions, and Weight

The WGen12000DF generator is a portable generator that weighs approximately 352 Ibs (160 kg). Its dimensions are L34 x W31 x H35, making it a fairly large-sized, hefty generator.

It’s not the biggest Generator out there, but it’s not the most compact either.

Its wide frame and tough exterior allow it to work exceptionally well on rugged terrain and in harsh weather, but it’s probably not something you’d take on a weekend camping trip.

It does come with wheels and handles for general maneuverability, but the 352 lb dry weight will likely limit this Generator’s portability. 

In short, it’s more of an emergency generator for the house during a hurricane or snowstorm than something you’d bring in your truck as a portable source of power.

Other Features

Here are some other notable features of the WGen12000DF Generator:

Paralleling With Other Generators:

Unfortunately, this Generator cannot be paralleled or connected to other generators. Paralleling is done to increase the watt output by connecting it with another generator of a similar design/model.

However, given the Generator’s already high power output and a wide array of capabilities, there isn’t a need to increase its wattage.

Control Panel Features

The WGen12000DF control panel has a few different features that make operating the Generator more convenient. 

There’s a gas meter to see how much fuel is left, a digital meter that has the voltage and frequency displayed, a battery indicator light, and the quick-start button for a single push start.

Security Features

There’s also a multitude of safety features, such as various overload circuit breakers and an automatic oil shut-off mechanism that activates when oil levels are low.

The Generator can also power-sensitive devices, such as cell phones and laptops with a maximum of 5% THD.

Accessories

The Generator comes with a remote start key fob. An ST plug can be purchased to connect the Generator to your house’s breaker box.

Emissions

The WGen12000DF generator has a spark arrestor, which can be a fire hazard. You should use it in clear areas with minimal foliage and forestation.

This Generator is also CARB compliant, so it produces minimal toxins and harmful emissions.

Other than that, all Westinghouse generators are factory tested and could potentially emit small amounts of oil/fuel odor prior to arrival.

Warranty

A three-year limited residential warranty and a one-year commercial warranty are available for this Generator. 

The company also offers lifetime technical support from their nationwide customer service. 

About Westinghouse Electric Corporation

Formerly named the “Westinghouse Electric and Manufacturing Company,” Westinghouse Electric Corporation was established in 1886 by George Westinghouse in Pittsburgh, PA. 

They are known for their portable generators, fridges, stoves, and other various household appliances. 

They are also currently responsible for researching and inventing carbon-free, nuclear-powered technologies.

FAQ About the WGen12000DF Generator

Here are some commonly asked questions about the Generator:

Can it be Hooked Up to a Gas Powerline?

The manufacturer has stated that the Generator can be connected directly to a propane line “as long as it’s run with a pressure of 7 “-14″ water column” 

Are These Generators American Made?

While an American company designs them, Westinghouse generators are ultimately constructed in China and Vietnam.

How Loud is the WGen12000DF Generator?

The noise levels of the Generator are 74 dBA. To be put in perspective, the average vacuum cleaner produces a noise level of 75 dBA. Essentially, the Generator is fairly noisy but isn’t as loud as other similar generators.

Things to Consider Before Buying

Here, we’ll give you the nitty-gritty of everything you need to know before buying.

Best Suited For

The WGen12000DF generator is best used as a house generator for limited periods of time (specifically during power and utility outages). 

Given its tough durability, it’s well suited for heavy storms, snow, and high wind velocities. 

It’s also an easy access generator with a swift startup and an uncomplicated interface. 

Reasons to Buy

If you live in a coastal area that sees a lot of storms or a northern region with a fair amount of snow, then that is reason enough to buy one of these generators.

This Generator was made for weather-related power outages, but it also has great utility. 

Pros

Here are some of the strengths of the WGen12000DF Generator:

High Power Output

This Generator is quite strong and will comfortably power your entire house with ease. 

Electric Startup

There won’t be any inconsistent pulling or cranking motions to start the Generator; everything is done with a push of a button in a single take.

Fuel Efficiency

It is a dual fuel generator that can use propane and gasoline with a simple switch to alternate between them. It also has a pretty high run time and is fuel-efficient.

Cons

The weaknesses of this specific model include:

It’s Heavy

Compared to other generators, this one’s a bit on the heavy side, weighing 352 lbs.

Limited Tech Support

If there is an issue with your Generator, a common complaint is that the company’s tech support is often overwhelmed with calls.

No Recoil Start

There isn’t a backup recoil start in case the main button and remote don’t work.

Social Proof

The Westinghouse WGen12000DF is a dependable generator that has people talking. Let’s take a look at a few reviews to see what others have to say about this top-of-the-line product.  


Natalie believes that the Westingtonhouse is the best generator around! They state that due to its portability it’s easy to move around and that it’s not too loud. Natalie was able to power the house for 3 days during an outage, so the 10 out of 10 ratings seem well placed!

Jonathan loves how easy this unit is to use straight out of the box. They claim that the instructions were simple to understand and that the unit runs like a champ. Jonathan has dubbed the Westinghouse as the “perfect purchase.”

Paige Espenshade looks forward to using this model for many years, as they state that the unit seems well-built and runs just as it should. They also had no trouble with the dual fuel feature and could easily switch back and forth between gasoline and propane.

Related Products

Here are three generators similar to the WGen12000DF Generator.

The Champion Power 100111

This Champion manufactured 10111 portable generator has a similar price tag (slightly cheaper) to the Westinghouse model and provides a similar watt output.

Aside from that, it only takes gasoline and has a 9 hour run time which is a bit less than Westinghouse’s Generator.

All Power’s APGG12000GL

This Generator is marginally cheaper than the Westinghouse one, coming in at almost three times less the price.

Of course, it’s also a lot less powerful and is better suited for smaller needs. Like the WGen12000DF generator, the APGG12000GL has a dual fuel capacity and a similar run time of 11 hours at half capacity.

Duromax XP12000HX

The Duromax XP12000HX generator is about $1000 cheaper than the Westinghouse generator and comes with dual fuel tanks and similar watt output.

It does have a lower run time of 8 hours and is generally less well-received than the latter.

Still, this isn’t a bad option quality-wise, and it is a bit more affordable if you’re looking to save some money on something you’ll solemnly use.

Conclusion

The Westinghouse WGen12000DF generator is a top-of-the-line, fuel-efficient Generator that can comfortably brave through most storms and provide a high amount of power for all of your house’s electric needs.

We absolutely recommend this one because of its ease of use, reliability, and few drawbacks.

Want to learn more about the WGen12000DF Generator? Click here for more information and specs.

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