Overview of Westinghouse WGen9500TFc

The Westinghouse WGen9500TFc, manufactured by Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment, is a versatile and reliable tri-fuel home backup portable generator. Priced at $1,082.09, it is designed for residential use and offers a variety of useful features.

Power and Performance

Fuel Type	Peak Watts	Running Watts
Gasoline	12500 Peak Watts	9500 Running Watts
Propane	11200 Peak Watts	8500 Running Watts
Natural Gas	9500 Peak Watts	7500 Running Watts

The generator is powered by a heavy-duty 457cc Westinghouse 4-stroke OHV engine with a long-lasting cast iron sleeve. It provides a running time of up to 12 hours on a 6.6-gallon fuel tank and operates at a rated speed of 3600 RPM with a ≤ 23% total harmonic distortion (THD).

Features

• Remote start with included key fob, electric and recoil start
• Transfer switch ready with one 120V L14-30R outlet
• One RV ready 120/240V 14–50R outlet
• Two GFCI 120V 5–20R standard household receptacles
• All outlets have rubber covers for added safety
• Automatic low oil and carbon monoxide (CO) shutdown
• Digital hour meter
• Plug-and-play capability with a remote start key fob, 12V battery charger, oil, and oil funnel, a tool kit, and a user’s manual included

Additional Attributes

• Item Weight: 208.34 Pounds
• Voltage: 240 Volts
• Output Wattage: 12500 Watts
• Special Features: Electric Start, Super Quiet, Low Oil Shutdown, Muffler, Hour Meter, Tri-Fuel, Fuel Gauge, Digital Display, Portable, Foldable Handle, Overload Protection, Automatic Voltage Regulation, Remote Start, CO Sensor
• Included Components: Oil Bottle, Oil Funnel, Spark Plug Wrench, Remote, Propane Regulator/Hose, Battery Float Charger

This model is CARB compliant and backed by a 3-year limited service, labor, and parts coverage along with a nationwide customer service network.

Overview of Generac GP17500E

The Generac GP17500E, made by Generac, is a powerful and reliable electric start gas-powered portable generator. With a price tag of $3,649.00, it is designed for security purposes and features a range of efficiency-enhancing attributes.

Power and Performance

Fuel Type	Peak Watts	Running Watts
Gasoline	17500 Peak Watts	Not provided

The generator is powered by a robust 992cc OHVI engine and offers up to 10 hours of run time at 50% load, courtesy of its 16-gallon fuel tank.

Features

• Convenient electric start with the included battery
• Plug-in battery charger jack for ensuring the battery is always charged and ready for use
• Hour meter for tracking usage
• Low-oil level shutdown for engine protection
• Idle control to reduce noise and conserve fuel

Additional Attributes

• Item Weight: 390 Pounds
• Voltage: 120 Volts
• Output Wattage: 17500 Watts
• Special Feature: Electric
• Included Components: Generator

The Generac GP17500E is built to withstand tough conditions, featuring a hardened 1-1/4″ steel tube cradle for added durability and strength. The integrated lifting eye allows easy transport and provides security on the jobsite or during camping trips.

Summary Table of Specs: Westinghouse WGen9500TFc vs Generac GP17500E

Specifications	Westinghouse WGen9500TFc	Generac GP17500E
Brand	Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment	Generac
Price	$1,082.09	$3,649.00
Wattage	12500 watts	17500 watts
Fuel Type	Tri-Fuel (Gasoline, Propane, Natural Gas)	Gasoline
Power Source	Fuel Powered	Gas-Powered
Running Watts (Gasoline)	9500 Watts	N/A
Item Weight	208.34 Pounds	390 Pounds
Voltage	240 Volts	120 Volts
Output Wattage	12500 Watts	17500 Watts
Special Features	Electric Start, Super Quiet, Low Oil Shutdown, Muffler, Hour Meter, Tri-Fuel, Fuel Gauge, Digital Display, Portable, Foldable Handle, Overload Protection, Automatic Voltage Regulation, Remote Start, CO Sensor	Electric Start
Included Components	Oil Bottle, Oil Funnel, Spark Plug Wrench, Remote, Propane Regulator/Hose, Battery Float Charger	Generator

User reviews of Westinghouse WGen9500TFc

Positive User Reviews Summary of Westinghouse WGen9500TFc

• Many users praised the tri-fuel capability of the generator, allowing it to run on gasoline, propane, or natural gas, providing flexibility in case of running out of one type of fuel.
• Users appreciated the completeness of the package, including all necessary hoses for different fuels, a detailed manual, a parts list, a funnel for oil filling, and even a toolkit in some cases.
• The generator is praised for its power output, with users mentioning that it can handle whole-house loads including multiple refrigerators, freezers, and central air conditioning.
• The product is considered easy to assemble and start, with detailed and understandable instructions. Some users noted that it started on the first try.
• Users appreciated the inclusion of a CO sensor for safety, and a remote start feature for convenience.
• Customers have complimented the sound levels of the generator, with some stating that it is quieter than other generators in the same class.
• The packaging and delivery were generally praised, with users noting the careful packaging and courteous delivery service.
• Some users were pleasantly surprised by Amazon’s price adjustments and credited back the difference when the product went on sale shortly after their purchase.

Critical User Reviews Summary: Westinghouse WGen9500TFc

• Some users have reported receiving a different brand of circuit breaker for the 30 amp than what was advertised in the photos, leading to disappointment and questioning the authenticity of the product.
• Instances of physical damage, such as a dented support bar, have been observed upon arrival, suggesting potential mishandling before packaging.
• Westinghouse’s customer service has been criticized for its lack of responsiveness and difficulty to reach. One user reported an unsuccessful attempt to obtain BTU requirements for the generator, despite trying multiple communication methods including online chat, email, and phone. The extended wait time for a response and lack of immediate assistance has led to frustration and reconsideration of purchase.

User reviews of Generac GP17500E

Positive Reviews Summary for Generac GP17500E

• Users appreciate the built-in elapsed-hours meter, which allows for timely oil changes and maintenance. The gas cap retainer string is another small but thoughtful feature.
• Many users highlighted its robust performance, even in extended power outages. It has reliably powered homes during storms and it can sustain entire houses, including large appliances like air conditioning units and heat pumps.
• The generator is praised for its resilience and longevity, with some users reporting flawless performance even after years of service and hundreds of hours of emergency use.
• Given its power and size, it is considered a cost-effective alternative to installing a full-house model.
• Despite its size, users find it manageable to move on hard surfaces, thanks to the wheel and handle design. Some have even made modifications, like adding a swivel caster or solid tires, to improve mobility.
• The generator has been highly rated for its ease of assembly out of the box and user-friendly layout for maintenance. Features like a replaceable spin-on oil filter and an attached rubber oil drain line make upkeep less messy.
• Users also commend its fuel efficiency when running on low loads.
• Finally, many users have expressed their satisfaction with the generator’s made-in-America craftsmanship and the confidence inspired by Generac’s parent company, Briggs and Stratton.

Negative Aspects of Generac GP17500E Based on Critical User Reviews

• The product appears to have durability issues, as users report it failing after the warranty period.
• The generator is loud, which can be a nuisance for users.
• Some users claim that the GP17500E model is difficult to start and maintain, with the choke throttle not calibrated well and the engine requiring maintenance after the first 50 hours of run-time.
• The generator is reported to have issues with oil leaks, leading to a decline in quality over time.
• There are reports of the fuel shut-off leaking straight out of the box, and of the battery arriving dead.
• Some users state that the product is unable to run an air conditioning unit at full capacity, limiting its practicality as a backup power source.
• The generator can overheat, with one user even having to relocate the fuel tank due to the high temperature.
• There are instances of the product not starting after initial use, with cylinders reportedly filled with gasoline.
• A user reported a complete system failure after only 13 hours of use, with gasoline spewing out of the exhaust and filling up the oil compartment.
• Several users reported poor customer service from Generac, with issues ranging from unhelpful assistance to lack of concern for receiving defective units.

Pros and Cons of the compared products

Pros and Cons of Westinghouse WGen9500TFc

Pros	Cons
Tri-fuel capability provides flexibility	Inconsistency in delivered components, particularly the 30-amp circuit breaker
Complete package with necessary accessories and tools	Instances of physical damage upon arrival
High power output capable of handling whole-house loads	Difficulties in reaching Westinghouse’s customer service and lack of responsiveness
Easy to assemble and start
Inclusion of a CO sensor for safety and a remote start feature for convenience
Quieter operation compared to similar class generators
Packaging and delivery often meet customer expectations
Opportunity for price adjustments and credits from Amazon

Pros and Cons of Generac GP17500E

Pros	Cons
Built-in elapsed-hours meter and gas cap retainer string for user convenience	Durability issues, failing after the warranty period
Robust performance even during extended power outages	Loud noise levels during operation
Resilient and long-lasting performance	Difficulties in starting and maintaining, including issues with the choke throttle and engine
Cost-effective alternative to full-house models	Problems with oil leaks over time
Manageable mobility on hard surfaces due to wheel and handle design	Fuel shut-off leaks and dead battery upon delivery
Easy assembly and user-friendly maintenance layout	Limitations in running an air conditioning unit at full capacity
Noted fuel efficiency when running on low loads	Instances of overheating and fuel tank relocation due to high temperature
Made-in-America craftsmanship and support from Briggs and Stratton	Failure to start after initial use and issues with cylinders filled with gasoline
	Complete system failure after only 13 hours of use, with gasoline spewing out of the exhaust and filling up the oil compartment
	Poor customer service from Generac

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the Westinghouse WGen9500TFc and the Generac GP17500E are highly reliable and robust generators, each with its own unique features and capabilities. The Westinghouse WGen9500TFc offers versatility with its tri-fuel option and a variety of thoughtful features designed for convenience and safety. On the other hand, the Generac GP17500E stands out with its superior wattage and robust engine, suitable for demanding tasks. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your specific power needs, budget, and preference for certain features. Always consider the intended use, power requirements, and available fuel sources before making a purchase.