Best 4000-Watt Power Generators

4000 Watt power generators convert chemical energy found in fossil fuels into electric energy used for powering electric tools, appliances, devices, and other loads when mains power is not available for various reasons.

With their Running and Starting Watts in the 4000-5000 Watt range, these portable units are often used on construction sites, when camping, tailgating, in emergencies, during blackouts, etc.

Published: July 12, 2023.

On This Page: What To Look For When Buying a 4000-Watt Power Generator 4000-Watt Power Generators Comparison Chart Westinghouse iGen4500DFc Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator WEN DF452iX Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator Champion 200987 Inverter Power Generator Few Final Words

 

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What To Look For When Buying a 4000-Watt Power Generator

When looking for a new 4000 Watt power generator, there are a few very important things to consider, first and foremost, your own needs and requirements.

Also, be sure to check the features and specifications of each unit that may fit your needs, which may include:

Inverter Generator or Classic Generator

When compared with classic power generators, inverter power generators feature more complicated output electronics (inverters - hence the name), which increase the initial price of the unit.

However, inverter power generators provide almost pure sine wave AC output, with THD levels often below 3%, allowing them to be used directly for powering sensitive electronic devices.

Also, most inverter generators feature so-called "Eco-Mode," where the engine revs at variable speed, saving fuel and increasing fuel economy, prolonging the runtime of the unit on a single fuel tank.

Just a few years ago, 4000-watt power generators were mostly classic generators, but thanks to advancements in technology, inverter 4000 Watt generators are becoming more and more popular.

For more about this topic, feel free to check our Generator vs. Inverter: What is an Inverter Generator article.

Running and Starting Watts

Running Watts is the output power that a generator may provide continuously while Starting Watts is the output power that a generator may provide for a very short period of time.

Starting Watts is very important when the generator is used to power loads with electric motors that tend to draw more current when starting - hence "Starting" Watts.

Note: If your power generator is continuously loaded at 70% or more, consider getting a larger one or having another one for parallel connection, just in case.

Parallel Ready

Parallel Ready power generators enable the user to connect two same or at least compatible power generators in parallel to provide more power.

However, when these units are connected in parallel, they generally support only 120V AC and not 240V AC, and with a 50A limit per receptacle, they are able to provide up to 6000W (120V * 50A = 6000W).

Note: if You need both 120V and 240V AC, consider getting larger units that support such operation by default - feel free to check our Best Portable 10000 Watt Generators article.

Fuel Types

Most 4000 Watt power generators are gasoline (gas) fueled units, with some of them being dual-fuel generators and can be powered by both gas and LPG (Liquid Petroleum Gas - Propane).

Using various conversion kits, some dual-fuel units can be converted into tri-fuel generators and can burn gas, LPG, and LNG (Liquid Natural Gas).

However, most of such conversions are NOT officially supported and, as such, are NOT recommended.

Since gas cannot be stored for a longer period of time, especially when ethanol is added, and since gas is usually the first fuel to run out in emergencies, having dual fuel power generator can be of great advantage since LPG can be stored for a very long time and often can be (relatively) easily found, even in emergencies.

Also, LPG burns much cleaner than gas and is more environmentally and engine healthier than gas.

Personally, if You can, go for a dual-fuel power generator.

Note: Diesel 4000 Watt power generators are very rare.

Safety Features

Power generators may come with numerous safety features that protect both power generators and users. Some of these safety features include:

• Low Oil Shutdown - when the power generator runs out of oil, the Low Oil Shutdown system shuts down the engine to protect it from the damage caused by a lack of lubricants.
• Power Ready - when the power generator is turned On, it is unable to provide power right away; the engine must warm up, for example. Power Ready signal LED notifies the user that the unit is ready and can be used to power external loads.
• Overload - when the power generator is overloaded, some or all receptacles are powered down to protect the generator from damage.
• Electric Breakers protect the unit from sudden overload caused by short circuits, too large loads, and similar.
• CO Sensors monitor the amount of Carbon Monoxide (CO), a very deadly invisible, odorless gas, in the air over a period of time, and if required, automatically turn off the engine.

Note: power generators MUST be run outside, at a safe distance from living facilities, preferably down the wind.

CO sensors are more common in recent units - they are not mandatory but highly recommended.

Runtime

Runtime depends on the fuel type, fuel amount, generator load, generator type (inverter generators are generally more fuel efficient than classic generators), engine efficiency, and similar.

Runtime is usually given in hours for 25%, 50%, and sometimes for 100% load, and can vary significantly - but practically all 4000 Watt power generators can operate 10+ hours @25% load, with some models being able to operate 10+ hours @50% load.

Noise Levels: Open Frame vs. Closed Frame Construction

Noise levels are usually measured from a distance of 21 feet (~6.4 m) when the unit is @25% load.

These values also vary significantly - closed-frame construction power generators are less noisy since they have the engine and muffler fully enclosed.

This also means that closed-frame power generators are slightly heavier and bulkier, but personally, this is more than worth it, especially for the units that will be used in urban environments or for camping, tailgating, and similar.

Engine Start

Practically all power generators feature manual recoil engine start, which should be used, personally, only as a backup system.

Electric engine start enables the user to start the engine with a simple press of the button, while remote start allows the user to start the power generator using a remote fob from distances up to 160, sometimes even more, feet (~49+ m).

Remote start can be very useful in many situations; for example, you can start the power generator for your RV without exiting the RV, practically, from the bed :)

Receptacles

The most common receptacles found on 4000 Watt power generators include:

• AC Receptacles: 5-20R, TT-30R, L5-30R, L14-30R,
• DC Receptacles: 12V (automotive mostly), 5V USB A, 5V USB C.

Other receptacles can be found on Parallel Connection Kits, or various adapters can be used.

Physical Dimensions And Weight

4000 Watt power generators are still compact enough to be carried in SUVs or even in larger trunks of sedans. They weigh between 100 and 150 pounds (~45 - 68 kg) dry (no fuel) and can be loaded and unloaded by 2-3 adults via built-in handles.

However, this must be done very carefully since 100-150 pounds should not be underestimated!

Portability

Due to their size and weight, 4000 Watt power generators can be carried to smaller distances by 2-3 adults or can be pulled/pushed thanks to built-in wheels.

Note: not all units come with wheels - some models have wheel kits as an option, but they are delivered by default without wheels.

Maintenance

Power generators are complex machines, and they must be maintained properly - when your new power generator comes, the very first thing to do is to read the Owner's Guide thoroughly and to keep it close by, just in case.

Typical maintenance tasks include checking, adding, and/or replacing the oil, adding fuel, checking, adjusting, and/or replacing the sparkplug, checking/cleaning the carburetor, charging/maintaining starting battery, etc.

It may sound overwhelming, but it is not - just be sure to check the Owner's Guide and find the maintenance calendar, which basically tells the user what to do and when to do it.

Warranty

There are two basic types of warranty, commercial warranty, and residential warranty.

Both commercial and residential warranties are usually up to 1-3 years, with commercial warranty being usually shorter.

However, some brands offer their units with the same commercial and residential warranty since they firmly believe in their product - this is a sign of a very good product; just be sure also to check the price.

Price

4000 Watt power generators are not cheap units, but when compared with smaller, less powerful units, they cost less per Watt of output power.

The price also depends on the number of features, which may increase the price, but in the end, it can come in very handy in certain situations.

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4000-Watt Power Generators Comparison Chart

The following comparison chart lists some of the most popular 4000 Watt power generators with their most important features and specifications:

As one can see, these units differ in terms of wattage, runtime, noise levels, and the list of available receptacles.

Personally, when choosing a power generator, not just in this class, go for dual-fuel, closed-frame, portable inverter generators with remote control and CO sensor and automatic power shut off.

All these features may increase the price, but in the long run, they may be well worth your money.

Note: as one can see, there are no Honda Generators in the chart - Honda makes excellent power generators, but they are 2-3x more expensive than the next most expensive unit. If You can find a Honda generator at a great discount, go for it, but if not, consider one of these units.

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Here are out short reviews of some of the best 4000 Watt power generators on the market. We really like them, but that doesn't mean that everybody will choose these models - again, choose according to your own needs and requirements:

Westinghouse iGen4500DFc Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator

Westinghouse iGen4500DFc Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator is a closed-frame inverter power generator based on the 4-stroke 224cc OHV engine offering 3700 (gas) and 3330 (propane) Running Watts and 4500 (gas) and 4050 (propane) Starting Watts.

The onboard gas fuel tank capacity is 3.4 gallons (12.8 liters), enough for 18h @25% (925W). When the unit is powered by 20 lbs propane tank, its runtime is 22h @25% (~830W). The unit features ECO-Mode, allowing the engine to operate at variable speeds depending on the current load, improving fuel economy.

The engine features manual recoil, electric, and remote start.

The physical dimensions of the unit are (L x W x H) 24.5 x 17.5 x 20 inches (~62.2 x 44.5 x 50.8 cm), and it weighs 127.6 pounds (~57.8 kg) dry.

To transport the unit to shorter distances, the unit comes with a pair of transport wheels, built-in handles, and a telescopic handle.

Total Harmonic Distortions (THD) are ≤3%, allowing the unit to power sensitive electronics directly.

Despite its power, thanks to fully enclosed construction, Westinghouse iGen4500DFc is one of the quietest generators with noise levels of ~52 dB, which is an excellent result.

Safety features include Low Oil Shutdown, Output Ready, Overload indicator LEDs, circuit breakers, and my favorite Carbon Monoxide (CO) sensor combined with an automatic shut-off system.

All receptacles feature a protective cover - receptacles include:

• 120V AC Duplex 5-20R,
• 120V 30A TT-30R,
• 2x 5V USB 2.1A.

The digital data control center displays easily readable data, including runtime, remaining fuel, load/output, volts, and lifetime hours data.

For users requiring even more power, it is good to know that Westinghouse iGen4500DFc is a Parallel Ready power generator.

Westinghouse offers Westinghouse 507PC 50A Parallel Cord (Amazon link, opens in the new window), which allows the user to connect two Westinghouse iGen4500DFc (or two compatible generators) in parallel and to offer AC 120V 50A (6000W) via additional NEMA 120V 14-50R receptacle.

Parallel Cord is optional and must be ordered separately.

Westinghouse iGen4500DFc is EPA and CARB-compliant and comes with a 1-year limited commercial and 3-year limited residential warranty.

Westinghouse offers several very similar generators which lack certain features found at Westinghouse iGen4500DFc - such generators are somewhat cheaper than Westinghouse iGen4500DFc, but all-in-all, this is overall an excellent, well-balanced unit.

For more reviews and recommendations, feel free to check the Westinghouse iGen4500DFc Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator Amazon link (the link opens in the new window). 

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WEN DF452iX Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator

WEN DF452iX Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator is powered by a 4-stroke 212cc OHV air-cooled engine, ensuring 3500/3150 Running Watts and 4500/4050 Starting Watts.

The onboard gas tank capacity is 2.2 gallons (~8.5 liters), ensuring a runtime of 8.5h @50% (1750W) load. When the unit is powered by 20 lbs propane tank, its runtime is 9h @50% (1575W) load.

The engine features manual recoil, electric, and remote start.

WEN DF452iX power generator features fully enclosed construction, ensuring noise levels of around 58 dB, which is a very good result for the unit in this power class.

The physical dimensions of the unit are (L x W x H) 23.2 x 18 x 20.1 inches (~59 x 45.7 x 51 cm), and it weighs 100 pounds (45.5 kg) dry.

For transport to shorter distances, the unit features small transport wheels, a pair of built handles, and a foldable handle.

WEN DF452iX power generator features a Data Meter, which includes Overload, Output, and Low Oil indicators, a Load meter, a Fuel meter, and Digital Display showing voltage, frequency, runtime, and maintenance alert at 50 hours.

Also, the WEN DF452iX power generator features a CO sensor combined with an automatic engine shutoff system.

The list of receptacles includes:

• AC 120V 5-20R Duplex,
• AC 120V 30A TT-30R,
• DC 12V 8A (Automotive),
• DC 2x 5V USB (2.1A, 1A).

Note: USB ports are provided via a 12V-USB adapter.

However, one must note that receptacles are not protected.

For people needing more power, it is good to know that the WEN DF452iX power generator is a Parallel Ready inverter generator.

WEN offers WEN GNA50i 50-Amp 6000-Watt Parallel Connection Kit (Amazon link, link opens in the new window), allowing the user to connect in parallel two WEN DF452iX power generators.

Also, the WEN GNA50i connection kit offers two additional receptacles, including NEMA 120V 50A 14-50R and NEMA 120V 30A L5-30R.

WEN GNA50i comes with protected receptacles. Parallel Kit is optional and must be ordered separately.

WEN DF452iX power generator is EPA and CARB-compliant and comes with a 3-year limited warranty.

For more reviews and recommendations, feel free to check the WEN DF452iX Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator Amazon link (the link opens in the new window). 

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Champion 200987 Inverter Power Generator

Champion 200987 Inverter Power Generator is powered by a 4-stroke 212cc variable speed gasoline-only internal combustion engine, ensuring 3600 Running Watts and 4500 Starting Watts.

The fuel tank capacity is 2.25 gallons, ensuring a runtime of 14h @25% load (900W).

The engine features manual recoil, electric, and remote start.

Noise levels are at an acceptable 61 dB - it could be better, but in this class, there are many noisier units...

The physical dimensions of the unit are (L x W x H) 23.2 x 17.7 x 20.1 inches (~59 x 45 x 51 cm), and it weighs 101 pounds (~45.8 kg) dry.

Champion 200987 features transport wheels, allowing users to pull it to shorter distances.

Safety features include an Overload and Low Oil automatic shutdown system - this unit doesn't come with a CO sensor!

Digital display (Intelligauge with Power Meter) shows voltage, frequency, session runtime, total runtime, and power output, allowing the user to monitor the unit easily.

The list of receptacles includes:

• AC 120V 5-20R Duplex,
• AC 120V 30A TT-30R,
• DC 12V 8A (Automotive).

Note: all receptacles feature protective covers.

Champion 200987 is a parallel-ready unit.

For users needing even more power, Champion offers Champion 100319 50-Amp Parallel Kit (Amazon link, opens in the new window), which also features two additional receptacles, 120V 50A 14-50R, and 120V 30A L5-30R.

Parallel Kit is optional and must be ordered separately.

Champion 200987 is EPA and CARB-compliant. Also, the unit comes with a 3-year limited warranty.

For more reviews and recommendations, feel free to check the Champion 200987 Inverter Power Generator Amazon link (the link opens in the new window). 

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Few Final Words

4000 Watt power generators are relatively compact and affordable units that can be used in numerous situations and can power a broad list of home appliances and tools.

When getting one, do your own due diligence - but consider getting a dual-fuel, parallel-ready, inverter power generator with closed frame construction, remote or at least electric start, and if possible, CO sensor.

Such units may cost more, but they have almost everything one may need in the long run.