(checked 2026-10-10)
A lot of generator for about $999: 9,500 running watts, 30- and 50-amp 240-volt outlets for a transfer switch, and electric, remote and recoil start. Bob Vila picked it as best dual-fuel. It's a loud (74 dB) open-frame unit of about 210 pounds, and none of our sources list a CO shutoff.
Recalls (CPSC): No CPSC recall found for the WGen9500DF (checked 2026-10-11). An earlier Westinghouse recall on 2020-09-16 (CPSC 20-185) covered iGen4500DF and WGen5300DFv units made October-December 2019.
Power (gasoline): 9,500 running / 12,500 starting watts
CO shutoff: Not listed: none of our sources mention a CO shutoff on this model (Popular Mechanics lists a low-oil shutoff)
Top complaints
- Loud
Rated 74 dB, which Popular Mechanics says may be too loud for RV parks that cap noise under 70 dB. Amazon owners are mixed on noise (685 mentions).
- Very heavy
About 210-211 lb, a challenge to lift into a truck bed (Bob Vila, Popular Mechanics).
- Not an inverter, and no CO shutoff listed
It's an open-frame, non-inverter design. Wirecutter's guide notes that non-inverter power fluctuations can damage electronics, and that it ruled out models without CO detection. None of our sources mention a CO shutoff on this model.
What owners love
- Powers big 240-volt loads
Bob Vila ran several power tools at once and powered an oven, range and clothes dryer (one at a time) on both gas and propane. It has 30- and 50-amp outlets for a transfer switch (Popular Mechanics).
- Three ways to start
Electric, remote and recoil start. Bob Vila started it with the fob from 90 feet away. Amazon owners like the remote start (778 positive mentions).
- Owners call it reliable
Nearly 8,900 Amazon ratings with positive feedback on quality (3.3K mentions), reliability (2.4K) and easy setup. Up to 12 hours on a 6.6-gallon tank at 25% load (Bob Vila).
- You want a quiet generator or use RV parks
- You want automatic CO shutoff
- You power sensitive electronics directly
- Running well pumps, HVAC or a dryer via a transfer switch
- Big home backup on a mid-range budget
- Starting from a distance with the fob
Scores (tap for why)
What experts say
- Bob Vila (best portable generators): Best dual-fuel (updated 2024-04-13): rated 5/5 for power, 4.5 for ease of use and value, 4 for noise and portability.
- Popular Mechanics (best home generators): Best for high-voltage appliances (updated 2026-08-27; not stated as tested): covers all the bases, but 74 dB may be too loud for RV parks.