2020 Review : Westinghouse iGen2600 – How does it compare to the iGen2500?

Our Westinghouse iGen2600 review provides the full introspective on this portable inverter generator. The iGen2600 fills a perfect niche in the lightweight, quiet inverter generator market. With 2,600 starting watts and 2,200W continuous running power, this compact generator is capable of running a large refrigerator, or RV air conditioner up to about 13,000 BTU. Making this an ideal small generator for basic home emergency power, camping, and one of the best portable generators for food trucks or tailgating. The Westinghouse iGen2600 and iGen2500 appear to be almost the same. To help distinguish, we’ll also be comparing these two models.

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🙈 — Beauty of Inverter Generators

Inverter generators have gained a huge market share because of the clean power they provide. The buzz word in portable power these days is Harmonic Distortion (HD), or Total Harmonic Distortion (THD). Basically this refers to the quality of the sine wave produced by an AC power supply.

As the load demand changes, a generator engine needs to adapt by increasing or decreasing power. Our appliances switch on and off, some of them automatically. When more watts are required, the engine needs more gas to supply the additional power. The throttle needs to open. This does not happen instantaneously. The consequent delay causes the voltage and frequency to fluctuate, causing a distortion in the sine wave. By now, most consumers are aware of the damage caused by THD. Since most modern appliances utilize electronic components, the negative effects of HD are a matter of grave concern.

Best in Class Inverter Generators : Truth is, you might find it challenging to get your hands on the Westinghouse iGen2600. For some reason, it’s out of stock everywhere, as of July 26, 2020. I like to give readers options, so here are two exceptional inverter generators that you’d be hard-pressed to find anything better, even on the best day. Honda and Yamaha are the darlings in the generator space.

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An inverter electronically adjusts the output current to maintain an almost uniform sine wave with very low levels of distortion. In the case of the Westinghouse iGen2600, THD is less than 3%. The additional benefits include lower noise levels and improved gas consumption, thanks to an economy switch on the user panel. This is a common inverter generator feature, not entirely unique to the iGen2600. Engaging the economy (or efficiency) mode, allows the engine speed to be electronically regulated. When the electricity demand is low, the engine RPM is lowered. It is adjusted according to the output demand. At a lower RPM, the engine is quieter and uses less fuel. Reducing engine speed also improves engine durability. There is less wear at a low RPM and the engine runs cooler.

Another trend in the design of quiet inverter generators, is a sound insulated enclosure. Like so many of its competitors, the Westinghouse iGen2600 uses a plastic housing, with acoustic insulation, to contain the noise. At low output, with the efficiency switch in the on position, the iGen2600 is one of the quietest at only 52dBA. At this level, you can stand about 23-feet from the generator and hold a normal conversation, without raising your voice. I should point out that all generator manufacturers advertise the best possible noise levels.

This spec of 52dBA will only be relevant when the load demand isn’t high, less than 650W. This is great for nighttime use. If you’re watching TV, with a few lights on, you won’t hear the iGen2600 purring in the background. In contrast, when switch on the AC, the noise is going to increase accordingly. Independent testing, suggests that the iGen2600 can reach peak noise levels around 70dBA. This would be true for most comparable models from other manufacturers. The Westinghouse is quieter than many of its competitors. Even 70dBA is tolerable when comparing generator noise levels.

The most compelling reason to consider the Westinghouse iGen2600 over others in this class, are those extra watts. Pitted against most of the other small lightweight inverter generators, the iGen2600 is one of the most powerful. Many consider the Honda EU2200i as the ultimate in this category. I’ll agree that the Honda is a fine machine. However, some may find it lacking in terms of output wattage. The EU2200i, like so many in this class, produces a peak output of 2,200W, with a running capacity of 1,800W. The 2,600W/2,200W output of the iGen2600 is an obvious advantage.

When we come to comparing prices, the Westinghouse iGen2600 is a wonderfully attractive option. If we exclude the really cheap alternatives, like the A-iPower SUA2000, the Westinghouse iGen2600 and iGen2500 are incredibly affordable. Taking into account the Westinghouse reputation for outstanding quality, excellent service, and a very competitive 3-year warranty, you’ll be hard-pressed to find better value for money. There is, however, a fairly significant price difference between the iGen2600 and iGen2500. After providing a comprehensive review of the Westinghouse iGen2600, I’ll offer more advice on the Westinghouse iGen2600 vs iGen2500.

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Westinghouse iGen2600 ǀ FULL Review

Features :

• Bring power to your home during a power outage or recreational activities
• 2500 peak watts, 2200 running watts and runs for up to 10 hours on a 1.0 gal. gas tank
• Enhanced fuel efficiency – variable engine speeds allow 30% to 50% higher fuel efficiency than a traditional generator
• Lightweight and compact design – the iGen2500 weighs 48 lb. and features a built-in carry handle for easy transportation
• Real-time LED display with runtime, remaining fuel, load/output, volts and lifetime hours data
• EPA and CARB compliant
• Super quiet – as low as 52 dBA with double-insulated acoustic enclosure, asymmetrical cooling fans, and low tone mufflers to reduce operating noise
• Safely powers sensitive electronics such as laptop computers, cell phones, and more with less than 3% THD
• (2) 120V 5-20R standard household outlets and (2) 5V USB ports with rubber outlet covers

OVERVIEW —

Having covered the most basic reasons why anyone might consider the iGen2600 as a viable camping or home generator, it’s time provide the full lowdown on this remarkable little machine. I mentioned the great value aspect, which is something that needs to be emphasized.

I’ve reviewed just about every portable generator from this brand. There is one common thread through all these reviews. That is genuine value for money. Buying a cheap portable generator is one thing. Quality control, world-class engineering, and after-sales service is another. Not to mention, long term costs, like gas and maintenance. When looking at all these factors, Westinghouse generators, tick every box. Value extends beyond the wonderfully cheap purchase price. Over the years, you’ll save even more, especially on gas.

The Westinghouse iGen2600 was introduced to provide more watts than the iGen2200 which was one of their first small inverter generators. Apart from upping the power, they’ve also added few extra features on this model, like a sophisticated digital data center and few additional outlets.

Westinghouse engines have proven to be extremely reliable and durable. The 98cc 4-stroke OHV variant powering the iGen2600 continues this legacy. Straight out the box, the iGen2600 starts with a single pull on the recoil starter. Yes, there’s no electric starter on this model. Though this is standard practice for this type of lightweight generator. By eliminating the extra weight of a starter motor and battery, they’ve kept the weight down to a perfectly manageable 48-pounds. This means you can carry the generator in one hand. A large handle, positioned for perfect balance, makes this pretty effortless. Given the thoughtful design, this generator is probably easier to carry than a large bag of dog food.

One reason why I rate Westinghouse generators so highly is the incredible fuel economy they offer. The Westinghouse iGen2600 takes this to even greater heights, when compared some of their other generators, which are all well above average when looking at economy. Possibly the best portable generator for low gas consumption, the iGen2600 achieves an astonishing 6.25 kilowatt-hours per gallon. This means it doesn’t need a particularly large gas tank to provide a decent runtime. The 1-gallon tank holds sufficient fuel to keep the generator running for 10-hours at 25% rated load (625W). Emissions are also up to scratch, meeting both EPA and CARB standards. For safety and compliance with national park and forestry regulations, it is fitted with a spark arrestor at the muffler.

Looking at outlets, functions, and ease of use, the Westinghouse iGen2600 certainly ranks among the best. A dial is used to switch the generator on, and you turn it further to engage the choke. This single action starting action is super convenient. Directly above this dial is the recoil starter handle. On the front panel, you have a modern user interface. The digital display is the best I’ve seen on a portable generator. Two clearly visible LED gauges display the fuel tank level and output percentage.

Basic information at a glance. For more accurate and detailed information, they’ve provided an alpha-numeric screen with a plethora of display options. Toggling through the display options, you can check the remaining runtime, power output in kilowatts, precise fuel level in liters, voltage, and lifetime running hours. All this information is digitally accurate, down to two decimal points. To one side of this, three status indicator LEDs are marked with low oil, overload, and output ready.

All the outlets are protected by plastic covers. There are 2 X 20A 120V outlets in the regular duplex format (NEMA 5-20R). There are 2 X 5VDC USB ports, one is rated at 1A and the other 2.1A. An automotive style cigarette lighter outlet supplies 12VDC (8A). The AC outlets are protected by an electronic internal circuit breaker, with a reset button on the user panel. An 8A breaker protects the 12VDC circuit. It has a clearly marked Efficiency Mode switch to engage the electronically monitored engine speed function, reducing noise and fuel consumption according to the load demand. Two ports facilitate a parallel kit (sold separately). This allows you to connect two iGen2600 generators in parallel, which will double your power output.

Basic maintenance is made perfectly easy. At the back of the generator, a cover panel is removed by turning a knob with your fingers. No screwdrivers or wrenches are needed. Once this panel is removed, you have easy access to the oil filler, air filter, and spark plug. A smaller plastic cover un-clips for draining the oil. Occasionally, you’ll need to clean the spark arrestor. This requires a little more effort but is certainly not complicated. The muffler cover is secured using four screws. You’ll need to use a screwdriver to remove these screws to gain access to the spark arrestor for periodic maintenance. The owner’s manual explains all of this perfectly, in real English, with easy to follow diagrams and pictures. One of the advantages of buying an American generator, you can understand the instructions.

As I’m an undeniable Westinghouse fan, I looked at customer reviews for a more objective point of view. In a deliberate effort to find some genuine criticism on the Westinghouse WGen2600i, I immediately clicked on the 1-star customer reviews. I was hoping to find something bad to say about this generator. Alas, I couldn’t. There are precious few negative customer reviews for the iGen2600. Just about all of these complain about damaged products. While this can be irritating, it is no reflection on the actual product. Westinghouse is one of the best when it comes to quality control. Though, as we all know, this will never be perfect for any brand. Items that are damaged during shipping and handling is unfortunate, but we cannot say this is a junk generator because of damage after it has left the factory.

I can only conclude that the Westinghouse iGen2600 is one of the very best value for money small portable inverter generators on the market. The price is highly competitive, especially for a superbly designed modern generator. Fuel consumption, ergo long-term economy, is off the charts. This generator runs on the sniff of an oil rag. Generally, a 3-year warranty is reserved for the top, most expensive, generators (like Honda). This makes the 3-year residential warranty, 1-year commercial warranty, on this very reasonably priced generator quite spectacular. As with all Westinghouse generators, I highly recommend the iGen2600.

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 Westinghouse iGen2600 vs iGen2500

Now for the big question: What is the difference between the Westinghouse iGen2600 and the iGen2500? The two models look slightly different; but their model numbers suggest only 100W difference in output capacity.

Technically, these are the same basic generator. Both the Westinghouse iGen2600 and iGen2500 use the same 98cc OHV engine. They both have a 1-gallon fuel tank, with the same fantastic fuel consumption: 10-hours runtime at 25% load. They even weigh the same, 48-pounds. Looking at the two generators, the only clue that they aren’t the same is their dimensions. The Westinghouse iGen2600 measures 20” (length); 11.6” (Width) and 18.1” (height). Whereas the iGen2500 is slightly more compact: 19.8” (length); 11.4” (width) and 17.9” (height).

iGen2500 —- A great option but is it different enough?

Features : (iGen2500) — Read full review

• Bring power to your home during a power outage or recreational activities
• 2500 peak watts, 2200 running watts and runs for up to 10 hours on a 1.0 gal. gas tank
• Enhanced fuel efficiency – variable engine speeds allow 30% to 50% higher fuel efficiency than a traditional generator
• Lightweight and compact design – the iGen2500 weighs 48 lb. and features a built-in carry handle for easy transportation
• Real-time LED display with runtime, remaining fuel, load/output, volts and lifetime hours data
• Super quiet – as low as 52 dBA with double-insulated acoustic enclosure, asymmetrical cooling fans, and low tone mufflers to reduce operating noise
• Safely powers sensitive electronics such as laptop computers, cell phones, and more with less than 3% THD
• (2) 120V 5-20R standard household outlets and (2) 5V USB ports with rubber outlet covers

Comparison Continued…

The price difference is noteworthy and cannot be ignored. For over $100 more (give or take) what does the iGen2600 really have to offer?

The difference between the Westinghouse iGen2600 and iGen2500 comes down to the inverter. Both these generators produce the same running power (2,200W). The more expensive iGen2600 offers 100W extra peak power – 2,600W vs 2,500 peak power for the iGen2500. My educated guess is that the engineers have used slightly larger capacitors for the iGen2600 inverter. This accounts for the extra few inches and slightly different shape. Larger capacitors will give the inverter a bit more boost for peak (surge) power demand.

Another minor difference becomes apparent when you view the control panel. The Westinghouse iGen2600 has a 12VDC battery charging port, whereas the iGen2500 does not. All other receptacles are the same. They also have the same data center and parallel ports.

You may be wondering if it’s worth paying more than $100 simply for a higher peak capacity. After all, your actual rated power is the same. If you use your generator for inductive load, like refrigerators and air conditioners, that extra 1,000 watts can make all the difference.

When some appliances  start, they require a high inrush current. This is why generators and inverters have a peak power specification. For a very brief period, usually less than a second, an inductive motor, microwave, and some lights, will need a startup current that can be up to 300% more than their normal running power.

When you’re using a refrigerator and air conditioner at the same time, their respective running power requirements may not be too high. Occasionally, both these appliances will start at the same time. The combined startup requirement for a refrigerator and an air conditioner will be too much for the iGen2500 and the generator will be overloaded, causing the circuit breaker to trip. Using the iGen2600, with a higher peak capacity, will reduce the chances of this type of overload during startup. While I mentioned the example of a refrigerator and an air conditioner, the same would apply when using either one of these appliances with another high startup appliance, like a microwave.

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Editors Note : In all honesty, I can’t help but wonder why Westinghouse even decided to release the iGen2600 since it’s so identical to the iGen2500. All it does is create confusion in the eyes of consumers — unless they have plans to phase out one over the other. As someone who has been observing the generator industry for many years, I’m often perplexed at the decisions that manufacturer’s often make. Confusion does not help sell more product. I would advise that Westinghouse, as well as other generator brands, trim down their line and avoid models that are essentially the same but slightly different.