Westinghouse iGen2200 Generator Review – Is It Worth Your Money?

Last Updated on July 6, 2023 by Rod Olivares

During a power outage, trying to get power to your appliances is priority number one.

This usually comes in the form of a portable generator, which tends to be very noisy and could be a problem for those with close neighbors. Westinghouse solves both problems with their super quiet iGen2200 portable inverter generator.

Operating at a mere 52 dB noise output at 25% load, this is one of the quietest generators in its power bracket.

Not only is it quiet and powerful enough to power multiple appliances, but the iGen2200 is also loaded with industry-leading features.

Functions and Ease of Use

Like many portable generators, the iGen2200 starts easily with the pull of a cord and a single turn of a knob.

The easy-to-use control panel allows you to easily navigate between the many features with ease.

Large fonts display the functions of each button, knob, and outlet, making it a great choice for even the most novice generator user.

The power control knob features three settings: off, run, and choke, allowing you to quickly get to the right setting.

To the left of the power control knob is a series of three LED indicator lights.

These lights alert you of low oil, overload, and output readiness.

Each light is essential to knowing the current state of your generator.

Below these lights is an efficiency mode switch. Efficiency mode allows the generator to run at maximum fuel efficiency.

This generator is also equipped with two 5V DC USB ports to power cell phones and other electronics.

An attached plastic cover allows you to cover the plugs when not in use.

For appliances that require a 120V AC outlet, the iGen2200 sports two to allow you to plug in multiple appliances.

To help prevent overloads, Westinghouse has integrated an easy-to-access 20A circuit breaker that will trip if the load exceeds specs.

To finish it off, there is a bright red overload reset button to get your generator working properly after the breaker has been tripped.

With all of these great features, it’s no surprise that this Westinghouse generator is a well-known customer favorite.

Noise Level – Is It Quiet?

When measuring how loud a generator is, the industry standard is to measure the sound levels at 23 feet away from the generator.

Most portable generators operate at the level of 70-78 dB (like the sound of a standard vacuum cleaner).

With a 25% load, the noise rating for the iGen2200 from about 20 feet away is 52 dB.

This is about as loud as a conversation at home according to the Industrial Noise Control.

This is considered a very quiet generator and a great option for those looking for a generator to use in a neighborhood where neighbors can be an issue.

Gas Consumption & Capacity

• Rated Amps: 13.3 Amps @ 120 volts
• AC maximum output starting Watts: 2200W
• AC rated output running watts: 1800W
• Rated AC voltage: 120 VAC
• Frequency: 60 Hz

With a fuel capacity of 1.2 gallons, the iGen2200 will run for approximately 12 hours at 25% load.

To conserve even more fuel, Westinghouse has included an Efficiency Mode to run at maximum fuel efficiency.

This efficiency mode adjusts the engine RPM to the current load requirements.

This generator is parallel capable, which means that using a Westinghouse Parallel Cable (sold separately), you can connect another iGen2200 for 4400 watts of power. This is a great tool to have when powering larger items that require more wattage.

This Generator Is an Inverter
A digital inverter module converts the raw power that is generated from DC to AC power. The inverter function means that you can use it to power sensitive appliances and electronics.

Service, Manual & Warranty

Westinghouse ensures that its customers feel confident in their portable generator purchase.

If a warranty repair is needed, they provide an easy-to-use warranty claim form on their site.

Each portable generator features a three-year limited warranty that proves that Westinghouse stands behind their products.

While the easy layout and adequately labeled switches, this generator is easy to use, but it is highly suggested that you make yourself familiar with the included user manual.

A digital copy of the complete instructional manual is available for download online if you have misplaced yours or would like to research it beforehand.

Westinghouse is well known in the generator industry for providing highly reliable and high-quality generators.

They offer a wide selection of portable generators in many different wattage selections for you to choose the perfect one to fit your needs.

Westinghouse iGen2200 Portable Generator vs. the Competition

When compared to the competition, the Westinghouse is a generator that stands out on its own The fuel efficiency mode and quiet operation make it a customer favorite among similar generators.

iGen2200 vs. Generac GP 2200i

When compared to the Generac GP 2200i, the Westinghouse is slightly cheaper and operates at a lower decibel volume.

However, they are both very similar in weight at 46 lbs each. If you were to compare them side by side, the iGen2200 would be the clear winner due to the noise level, longer operation time, and easy-to-use control center.

Vs. Honda EU2200i

Another competitor, the Honda EU2200i is twice the price of the Westinghouse while producing the same amount of power.

This Honda generator has many of the same features as the Westinghouse and operates at a slightly louder volume.

Each offers an economical fuel efficiency mode, which is a great feature to have when running for a long time.

Both of these generators are fairly lightweight, weighing in at around 46-47 lbs each.

The Honda EU2200i is a predecessor of a long line of high-quality portable generator inverters in the Honda lineup. While they are both quite similar feature-wise, paying almost twice as much for a more well-known brand may not be in everyone’s budget.

Online Reviews and Scores

According to Amazon reviews at the time of this review, the Westinghouse iGen2200 leads the pack with the most reviews, boasting nearly 300.

While they are not all 5-star reviews, over 70% were, with another 15% reaching 4-star status.

A large number of the 1-star reviews revolved around the generator no longer working. Some have reported reaching out to Westinghouse, who have taken care of their problems.

There were also a couple of reviews of people receiving damaged units with no visible damage to the box, which makes us question the quality control that Westinghouse has.

Potential Problems / Known Issues

Most of the problems with this generator seem to originate from when the owners first received them.

While this is concerning, it is common across the board with any portable generators.

Not that there is a problem with the generator, but it could also possibly be a user error issue.

We highly suggest getting familiar with the user manual before using the generator.

It is also wise to familiarize yourself with the maintenance schedule and change the oil when needed to keep your generator working for years to come. You don’t want to lose your generator because you didn’t maintain it.

Also, check my article about proper generator break-in.

Another iGen complaint is the lack of oil and fuel gauges.

While the generator sports warning lights for each, a fuel and oil gauge would really make this inverter more user-friendly and keep you in the know of fuel needs.

This generator’s cooling vents are located on the bottom and sides of the unit, making it not ideal to set on dirt or grass.

The manufacturer suggests that the generator be mounted on a flat, level surface to keep the unit from potentially overheating.

My Opinion: Should You Buy It?

To answer that question, you really have to look at what you want out of your portable generator.

If you are looking for a generator that can support a fridge or window unit with the possibility of adding a smaller appliance, this is the one.

Plus, the lightweight frame and quiet operating volume make it great for any kind of open environment.

Typically, generators are quite noisy, but this generator is one of the quietest available.

For those looking for the absolute most power and a generator that can restore power to your whole home, you may look toward a higher wattage generator.

That being said, this is going to be one of the better buys for mid-sized generators capable of getting you by through a power outage without disturbing your neighbors.

With its easy-to-use controls and lightweight, this generator is easy to operate by even the most novice generator users.