Overview of WEN DF1100T

The WEN DF1100T is an 11,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator perfect for various power needs. It comes with a wheel kit and electric start, making it a convenient choice for power generation. The generator is compliant with CARB (California Air Resources Board) regulations, and sports a robust black color.

• Brand: WEN
• Wattage: 11,000 watts
• Fuel Type: Electric
• Power Source: Fuel Powered
• Item Weight: 214 Pounds
• Voltage: 120 Volts
• Output Wattage: 11,000 Watts
• Special Feature: Electric
• Included Components: Dual-Fuel Generator
• Color: Black

The WEN DF1100T is versatile in its fuel usage, allowing for a switch between gasoline and propane with the simple turn of the selection dial. It easily handles voltage variations from 120V to 240V, making it suitable for transfer switches and emergency backup situations. The electric start powers the 457cc 4-stroke OHV engine with the turn of a key. It has a 6.6-gallon tank providing up to 8.5 hours of half load run time.

The package includes four 120V GFCI outlets (5-20R), a 120V 30A twist lock outlet (L5-30R), a 120V/240V 50A outlet (NEMA 14-50R), a 12V DC cigarette-lighter-style plug, and a 47-inch LPG connection hose. The generator also comes with a two-year warranty for assured quality and reliability.

Price
$789.99

Overview of Generac GP17500E

The Generac GP17500E is a robust 17,500-Watt Electric Start Gas-Powered Portable Generator, offering reliable backup power suitable for both home use and jobsites. With a 992cc OHVI engine, this generator provides unmatched power and extended run times, making it an ideal choice for those requiring consistent and long-lasting power supply.

• Brand: Generac
• Wattage: 17,500 watts
• Fuel Type: Gasoline
• Power Source: Gas-Powered
• Recommended Uses: Security
• Item Weight: 390 Pounds
• Voltage: 120 Volts
• Output Wattage: 17,500 Watts
• Special Feature: Electric
• Included Components: Generator

The Generac GP17500E features a convenient Electric Start, starting effortlessly with the included battery. An integrated plug-in battery charger jack ensures the battery is always charged and ready for use. The generator also comes with an hour meter for tracking usage, a low-oil level shutdown for engine protection, and an idle control to reduce noise and conserve fuel.

With a 16-gallon fuel tank, the Generac GP17500E provides up to 10 hours of run time at 50% load, ensuring continuous operation and reliable power supply. Built to endure tough conditions, it features a hardened 1-1/4″ steel tube cradle for added durability and strength. An integrated lifting eye facilitates easy transport and increases security on jobsites or during camping trips.

Price
$3,649.00

Summary of Specifications: WEN DF1100T vs Generac GP17500E

Specifications	WEN DF1100T	Generac GP17500E
Brand	WEN	Generac
Wattage	11,000 watts	17,500 watts
Fuel Type	Electric	Gasoline
Power Source	Fuel Powered	Gas-Powered
Recommended Uses	N/A	Security
Item Weight	214 Pounds	390 Pounds
Voltage	120 Volts	120 Volts
Output Wattage	11,000 Watts	17,500 Watts
Special Feature	Electric	Electric
Included Components	Dual-Fuel Generator	Generator
Price	$789.99	$3,649.00

User reviews of WEN DF1100T

Positive User Reviews of WEN DF1100T

• Users greatly appreciate the dual-fuel feature, stating that the generator runs smoothly on both gasoline and propane. Propane, particularly, is appreciated for being a cleaner fuel option.
• The unit is applauded for its high power output, with multiple users expressing confidence that the generator can power up their entire homes, including heavy appliances like AC and heating units.
• Several reviewers were impressed by the generator’s reliability and consistency. It is noted to start up instantly and run seamlessly, even after sitting unused for months.
• Many users mention the generator’s noise level which, while not silent, is considered manageable and comparable to similar rated generators.
• The generator’s build quality and design are praised, with one reviewer highlighting the easy access to engine parts for regular servicing and the clear labeling of components.
• WEN DF1100T is appreciated for its ease of assembly and operation, with specific mentions of the easy-to-roll wheels enhancing its mobility.
• Users value the generator as a cost-effective solution for backup power, suggesting it offers a high-quality performance without breaking the bank.
• The generator’s longevity and durability also won praise, with one user reporting the generator running for over 300+ hours straight without any major issues.
• Lastly, customers appreciate the generator’s comprehensive manual and the ready availability of replacement parts from the WEN website, indicating easy maintenance and repair options.

Negative Aspects of WEN DF1100T

• Several customers reported that the generator did not work upon arrival or shortly thereafter, requiring troubleshooting and repairs.
• The generator had issues running on gasoline for some users.
• Multiple users experienced poor customer service from WEN, including snarky emails, lack of troubleshooting assistance, and unavailability of agents.
• Some parts, such as the voltage regulator and battery, are reportedly prone to fail and may be difficult to replace due to unavailability or unconventional sizing.
• Certain customers faced issues with the GFCI outlets and difficulty starting the generator, leading to frustrations with the return and replacement process.
• One user reported the product was heavier than advertised, leading to inconvenience in shipping and setup.
• The generator’s design and packaging were criticized for being difficult to handle and unpack.
• A few users experienced financial difficulties due to out-of-pocket repair costs and unfulfilled promises of refunds.
• One customer reported a safety issue, resulting in injury when the pull cord handle broke during use.

User reviews of Generac GP17500E

Positive Aspects of Generac GP17500E as per User Reviews

• Users appreciate the thoughtfulness in the design, like the addition of an elapsed-hours meter and a retainer string for the gas cap which were missing in the previous models.
• It is considered a cost-effective alternative to full-house models that require expensive gas piping.
• The generator’s heavy-duty built and performance make it a reliable choice for powering entire homes, even in extreme weather conditions.
• Many users have praised its ability to run heavy loads such as air-conditioning units, heat pumps, freezers, and well pumps.
• Users have found it easy to assemble and maintain with accessible engine parts and a convenient oil drain line.
• The built-in electronic hour meter is appreciated for easy maintenance tracking.
• Its portability and the option to move it around like a wheelbarrow is considered a plus, despite its heavy weight.
• The generator has been found to run smoothly and fairly quietly for its size.
• Its ability to run continuously for long durations during power outages is greatly admired by users.
• Some users have also appreciated the provision of multiple power outlets for diversified usage.
• The generator has proven its longevity and reliability with some users reporting satisfactory performance even after years of use.

Critical User Reviews of Generac GP17500E

• The 17.5 Kw generator uses the same stator as the 15 Kw version, leading to concerns about its longevity and value for money.
• Starting the generator can be difficult due to a poorly calibrated choke throttle, and there are complaints about the noise level.
• There are reports of oil leaks from the sensor and oil cooler lines in the 2021 model, suggesting a possible decline in part quality.
• Fuel leaks and dead batteries were reported in new units, and customer service was unhelpful in addressing these issues.
• The generator reportedly struggles to run a 2.5-ton AC unit at full capacity, leading to concerns about its power output.
• One Spanish-speaking user reported that the generator overheats, leading them to relocate the fuel tank.
• Several users reported complete system failures, with one noting that the generator filled with gas after just 13.8 hours of use.
• There were reports of the generator arriving with a dead battery, which was not covered by the warranty.
• One user reported the generator arrived covered in oil, with a cracked battery that leaked acid, damaging parts of the generator.
• There were complaints of receiving defective units and poor customer service from both the seller and Generac.

Pros and Cons of the compared products

Pros and Cons of WEN DF1100T

Pros	Cons
Dual-fuel feature, allowing the generator to run on both gasoline and propane	Some units did not work upon arrival or shortly after, requiring troubleshooting and repairs
High power output, capable of powering an entire home, including heavy appliances	Issues reported with the generator running on gasoline
Reliability and consistency, with instant start-up even after long periods of disuse	Poor customer service experiences, including lack of troubleshooting assistance and unavailability of agents
Noise level is manageable and comparable to similar rated generators	Problems with voltage regulator and battery, which may fail and be difficult to replace
High-quality build and design, with easy access to engine parts for servicing	Issues with GFCI outlets and difficulty starting the generator
Easy to assemble and operate, with good mobility due to easy-to-roll wheels	Product was heavier than advertised, leading to inconvenience in shipping and setup
Cost-effective solution for backup power	Design and packaging criticized as difficult to handle and unpack
Longevity and durability, with reports of running for 300+ hours without major issues	Financial difficulties due to out-of-pocket repair costs and unfulfilled promises of refunds
Comprehensive manual and easy availability of replacement parts for maintenance	Safety issue reported when the pull cord handle broke during use

Pros and Cons of Generac GP17500E

Pros	Cons
Thoughtful design, including an elapsed-hours meter and a retainer string for the gas cap	Uses the same stator as the 15 Kw version, leading to concerns about its longevity and value for money
Cost-effective alternative to full-house models that require expensive gas piping	Difficulty in starting the generator due to a poorly calibrated choke throttle, and complaints about noise level
Heavy-duty built and performance, reliable for powering entire homes, even in extreme weather conditions	Reports of oil leaks from the sensor and oil cooler lines in the 2021 model
Ability to run heavy loads such as AC units, heat pumps, freezers, and well pumps	Fuel leaks and dead batteries in new units, with unhelpful customer service
Easy assembly and maintenance with accessible engine parts and a convenient oil drain line	Struggles to run a 2.5-ton AC unit at full capacity, raising concerns about power output
Portability and the ability to move it around like a wheelbarrow, despite its heavy weight	Reports of overheating, leading to the relocation of the fuel tank
Runs smoothly and fairly quietly for its size	Complete system failures, with one report of the generator filling with gas after just 13.8 hours of use
Long running duration during power outages	Delivery with a dead battery, which was not covered by the warranty
Provision of multiple power outlets for diversified usage	Arrival of generator covered in oil, with a cracked battery that leaked acid, damaging parts of the generator
Longevity and reliability, with satisfactory performance reported even after years of use	Receiving defective units and poor customer service from both the seller and Generac

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the WEN DF1100T and Generac GP17500E offer reliable power solutions tailored to different needs. The WEN DF1100T, being a dual fuel generator with a lower price point, is a great choice for those seeking versatility and affordability. On the other hand, the Generac GP17500E, with its higher output and robust construction, is a perfect pick for jobsites and heavy-duty needs. It’s essential to align your choice with your specific power requirements, usage frequency, and budget.