Westinghouse WGen9500TFc Portable Generator User Manual

Introduction

WARNING: Operating, servicing, and maintaining this equipment can expose you to chemicals including engine exhaust, carbon monoxide, phthalates, and lead, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. To minimize exposure, avoid breathing exhaust, and wear gloves or wash your hands frequently when servicing this equipment. For more information go to www.P65warnings.ca.gov.

DISCLAIMERS: All information, illustrations, and specifications in this manual were in effect at the time of publishing. Illustrations are for reference only. Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment reserves the right to make design changes without notice.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: No reproduction allowed without written permission from Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment.

DANGER: Read this manual before using or performing maintenance on this product. Failure to follow the instructions and safety precautions can result in serious injury or death.

UPDATES: The latest User Manual can be found at wpowereq.com/pages/manuals.

PRODUCT REGISTRATION: For warranty coverage, register your product online at wpowereq.com/pages/warranty-registration or by mailing the included card. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.

Specifications

NOTICE: This product is rated for continuous operation at ambient temperatures between 23°F (-5°C) and 104°F (40°C). Maximum power decreases with altitude and higher ambient temperatures.

NOTICE: Thank you for choosing Westinghouse! For questions or problems, call 1-855-944-3571 or email service@wpowereq.com. SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

Safety

SAFETY DEFINITIONS: DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION, and NOTICE are used to highlight important safety information. Pay attention to the safety alert symbol ⚠️.

SAFETY SYMBOLS:

• ⚠️ Safety Alert Symbol
• ? Fire Hazard
• ⚡ Electrical Shock Hazard
• ? Burn Hazard. Do not touch hot surfaces.
• ? Asphyxiation Hazard
• ?❌ Do Not Operate in Wet Conditions
• ? Read Manufacturer's Instructions
• ? Ground. Consult an electrician.
• CO Carbon Monoxide

DANGER: Generator exhaust contains high levels of carbon monoxide (CO), an invisible, odorless, and extremely poisonous gas. NEVER operate generators indoors; doing so CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES.

Correct Use: Operate generators outside, in a well-ventilated area, far away from windows, doors, and vents. Always direct exhaust away from occupied spaces. Install battery-powered carbon monoxide detectors in living areas.

Incorrect Use: NEVER use a generator in your home, garage, basement, attic, crawl space, or any other enclosed area. An open door or running fan WILL NOT provide adequate ventilation.

If you feel dizzy, weak, or sick, move to fresh air IMMEDIATELY and contact a doctor. You may be experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning.

DANGER: Fire and electrocution hazard. DO NOT connect to a building's electrical system unless properly installed with a transfer switch by a qualified electrician. This must isolate generator power from utility power and comply with all applicable laws and electrical codes. Failure to do so can cause property damage and create a dangerous backfeed that could kill or injure utility workers.

DANGER: Electrocution hazard. NEVER use the generator in a wet or damp location. Protect the generator from rain, snow, water spray, or standing water. Moisture or ice can cause short circuits.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS:

• Familiarize yourself with all instructions and warnings.
• Install battery-powered carbon monoxide detectors in living areas.
• ONLY use the generator outdoors in a well-ventilated area, far from windows, doors, and vents.
• The National Electrical Code requires a transfer switch for connecting to a building's electrical system.
• Never use the generator to power medical support equipment.
• Keep children, bystanders, and pets at least 10 ft. (3m) away from a running generator.
• Maintain 5 ft. (1.5m) clearance on all sides, including overhead, for ventilation and heat dissipation.
• Do not operate in areas where combustible or hazardous materials are stored.
• Do not operate while barefoot, with wet hands or feet, or in wet conditions.
• Do not operate when tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or medication.
• Burn Hazard: Do not touch hot surfaces like the muffler or engine. Keep flammable materials away from exhaust.
• Keep hands, fingers, feet, and body parts away from moving parts.
• Do not connect worn or damaged electrical cords. Never touch frayed or exposed wires.
• Always operate the unit on a flat, stable surface.
• Check the physical condition of the product before each use. Replace damaged items.
• For optimal performance, use between 23°F (-5°C) and 104°F (40°C).
• Check all fluids (oil and gasoline) before starting.
• Do not remove the oil dipstick or fuel cap when the generator is running.
• Securely tighten the oil dipstick and fuel cap after adding fluids.
• Avoid skin contact with engine oil or gasoline. Wash exposed skin with soap and water.
• Check cords connected to the generator for damage due to vibration. Replace or repair damaged items.
• All electrical tools and appliances must be properly grounded or double-insulated.
• Before transporting, disconnect the spark plug boot, drain the fuel tank, and restrain the unit.
• GROUNDING: The generator neutral is bonded to the frame. Consult a qualified electrician for specific grounding requirements based on intended use and local codes.
• DISCONNECTING THE BONDED NEUTRAL: This is only for specific circumstances. Consult a qualified electrician. If disconnected, apply a "NEUTRAL UNBONDED" label.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FOR GASOLINE AND GASOLINE VAPOR:

DANGER: Fire and explosion hazard. Gasoline is highly explosive and flammable.

WARNING: NEVER loosen or remove the fuel cap while the generator is running. Turn off and let cool for at least five minutes before refueling. Loosen the fuel cap slowly.

Fire Hazard: Gasoline is highly flammable. Handle with care. Never use gasoline as a cleaning agent. Store gasoline in approved containers in well-ventilated areas away from ignition sources. Do not smoke when handling fuel. Wear eye protection while refueling. Never fill the fuel tank beyond the fill ring to allow for fuel expansion. Wipe up spills immediately.

LIQUID PETROLEUM GAS (LPG/PROPANE):

WARNING: Fire and explosion hazard. Never use damaged gas containers, hoses, or cylinders. If you smell propane, close the cylinder valve immediately and check for leaks with soapy water, NOT an open flame. Only use approved propane cylinders with an Overfill Prevention Device (OPD) valve and keep them vertical. Ensure cylinders are periodically certified.

NATURAL GAS (NG):

WARNING: Fire and explosion hazard. Never use damaged natural gas supply lines or hoses. If you smell natural gas, close all gas sources immediately and check for leaks with soapy water, NOT an open flame. Consult a licensed professional plumber for proper installation. Ensure the natural gas hose is visible and not routed under structures.

LEAK TESTING: Use a soapy solution (20/80 mild soap/water) to check for leaks at connections. If bubbles form, there is a leak. Do not use the generator if leaks persist. Contact customer service or the appropriate authority.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR THE CO SENSOR: The CO Sensor monitors for carbon monoxide and automatically shuts down the engine if unsafe levels are detected. The RED indicator light flashes upon shutoff due to CO. The YELLOW indicator light flashes for system faults. The CO Sensor does NOT replace home carbon monoxide alarms. Install alarms in your home.

UNDERSTANDING THE CO SENSOR'S INDICATOR LIGHTS:

• RED: Unsafe levels of carbon monoxide detected. Generator shuts down. Light flashes for at least five minutes after shutoff. Relocate generator to an open, outdoor area with exhaust pointed away.
• YELLOW: CO sensor system fault. Generator shuts down. Light flashes for at least five minutes. A fault requires diagnosis and repair by an authorized Westinghouse service center.

SAFETY LABELS AND DECALS: The generator is marked with various labels indicating action required, hazards, and instructions. Key labels include Action Label (CO shutoff), Carbon Monoxide warning, Take Generator Outside, California Proposition 65, Pinch Point Hazard, Adding Oil, Hot Surface, Choke On/Off, Fuel Capacity, Engine Displacement, Danger Label, No Oil, Maintain Air Cleaner, Fuel Valve, Customer Service, and EZ Start Instructions.

Electrical

GENERATOR CAPACITY: Do not overload the generator. Exceeding wattage/amperage capacity can damage the generator and connected devices. Total power requirements of all connected devices must be considered. Calculate running (continuous) watts and peak (starting) watts for each device.

MANAGING GENERATOR POWER: To extend service life, add loads sequentially: Start the generator with no loads, connect and start the largest device, allow output to stabilize, then connect the next largest device.

EXTENSION CORDS:

WARNING: Extension cords running directly into the home increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Always use battery-powered carbon monoxide detectors.

WARNING: Never use worn or damaged extension cords. Damaged cords can overheat, arc, and burn.

Extension Cord Sizing: Ensure extension cords can carry the required load. Cables that are too small can cause voltage drop, overheating, or property damage. Refer to cord manufacturer guidelines for appropriate size and length.

• Use grounded 3-prong or double-insulated extension cords, tools, and appliances.
• Ensure tools/appliances are in good working order.
• Ensure electrical ratings do not exceed generator or receptacle capacity.

Components

UNDERSTANDING YOUR GENERATOR:

Key components include:

• 120 VOLT AC, 20 AMP RECEPTACLES: Two receptacles for 20 amp loads.
• 120/240-VOLT AC RECEPTACLES (50 AMP): Receptacle for 120V or 240V up to 50 amps.
• BATTERY CHARGING PORT: For charging the battery.
• BATTERY INDICATOR: Shows battery power availability.
• BATTERY SWITCH: Enables/disables electric start and remote start.
• CIRCUIT BREAKERS (20 AMP AND 30 AMP): Protect individual circuits from overload.
• CO SENSOR INDICATOR LIGHTS: Indicate CO levels or system faults.
• DATA CENTER: Displays voltage, frequency, hours, and maintenance reminders.
• ENGINE START/STOP BUTTON: Starts or stops the engine.
• FUEL SELECTOR SWITCH: Selects gasoline, propane, or natural gas.
• FUEL TANK: 6.6-gallon capacity with a fuel gauge.
• GROUND TERMINAL: For external generator grounding.
• MAIN CIRCUIT BREAKER: Controls total output to protect the generator.
• MUFFLER AND SPARK ARRESTOR: Reduces noise and prevents sparks. The spark arrestor may be legally required in some locations.
• OIL DIPSTICK: For checking and adding engine oil.
• RECOIL HANDLE: For manual engine starting.
• REMOTE START: Uses a key fob for remote starting.
• SMART SWITCH OUTLET: For connecting a Westinghouse ST Switch (sold separately).

Operation

DANGER: Generator exhaust contains high levels of carbon monoxide (CO). NEVER operate generators indoors; doing so CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES.

WARNING: Do not alter or modify this product. Use only recommended attachments and accessories. Unauthorized modifications can damage the unit and void your warranty.

NOTICE: Consult a qualified electrician for grounding requirements before operation.

KNOW HOW TO SAFELY LOCATE AND OPERATE YOUR GENERATOR:

• Operate in a well-ventilated area, away from vents or intakes. Consider wind and air currents.
• Never use the generator in wet or damp locations. Protect from rain, snow, and water spray.
• Operate only on a solid, level surface. Avoid loose materials like sand or grass clippings.
• Allow the generator to cool for 30 minutes before transport or storage.
• Never use a generator in your home, garage, basement, attic, crawl space, or any other enclosed area.
• Do not operate in the back of vehicles, under stairs, or next to buildings where adequate cooling is not possible.
• Do not contain generators during operation.
• Keep at least 5 ft. (1.5 m) clearance from all combustible material.

ADDING OIL/CHECKING OIL LEVEL:

NOTICE: THIS GENERATOR HAS BEEN SHIPPED WITHOUT OIL. Do not attempt to start the engine before adding the recommended oil. Failure to do so will result in serious engine damage not covered by warranty.

NOTICE: Use only recommended oil types (e.g., SAE 10W-30). Using 2-stroke/cycle oil or other unapproved types can cause severe engine damage.

To add oil: Clean around the oil dipstick, remove it, and slowly pour oil into the fill hole until the level is within the safe operating range indicated on the dipstick. Replace and tighten the dipstick.

To check oil level: Clean the dipstick, re-seat it without threading, remove it, and verify the oil level is within the safe operating range. Add oil incrementally if low.

GASOLINE REQUIREMENTS:

NOTICE: Do not use E15 or E85 fuel. Use only clean, fresh, unleaded gasoline (87-93 octane) containing up to 10% ethanol.

LP GAS CYLINDER REQUIREMENTS:

NOTICE: Propane cylinders using liquid withdrawal systems cannot be used. Use DOT or CAN/CSA-B339 certified cylinders with a safety relief valve and an Overfill Protection Device (OPD) valve (triangular handwheel). Verify certification dates and ensure cylinders are purged of air and moisture.

CONNECTING AN LP GAS CYLINDER TO THE GENERATOR:

DANGER: Never connect or disconnect the hose while the engine is running. Do not smoke or create sparks. Turn off the engine and let it cool for at least five minutes before connecting.

WARNING: Never use a damaged gas container, hose, or cylinder.

WARNING: Perform a leak test any time the LP gas cylinder is disconnected and reconnected.

Connect the LPG/propane hose to the generator's natural gas/propane inlet using the quick-connect collar.

CONNECTING GENERATOR TO NATURAL GAS SUPPLY LINE:

DANGER: Never connect or disconnect the hose while the engine is running. Do not smoke or create sparks. Turn off the engine and let it cool for at least five minutes before connecting.

WARNING: Never use a damaged natural gas supply line or hose.

WARNING: Perform a leak test any time the natural gas hose is disconnected and reconnected.

Turn off the gas at the supply line. Unwrap and straighten the natural gas hose. Connect the hose to the generator's natural gas/propane inlet using the quick-connect collar.

SELECTING THE FUEL SOURCE:

DANGER: DO NOT add fuel or connect hoses while the generator is in operation.

The fuel source can be switched while the engine is off or running (if connected before operation). Switching from gasoline to propane/natural gas while running may cause temporary rough running.

• To switch to gasoline: Turn the fuel valve ON, rotate the fuel selector switch to GASOLINE, and turn off propane/natural gas flow.
• To switch to propane: Open the cylinder valve, rotate the fuel selector switch to PROPANE, and turn off natural gas/gasoline flow.
• To switch to natural gas: Open the supply line valve, rotate the fuel selector switch to NATURAL GAS, and turn off propane/gasoline flow.

HIGH ALTITUDE OPERATION: Engine power is reduced at altitudes over 5,000 ft. (1524 m). A high altitude carburetor kit (Part# 518077-01) may be required for operation above 5,000 ft. Do not operate below 2,000 ft. (762 m) with the kit installed.

DATA CENTER: Displays voltage, frequency, lifetime hours, and run/maintenance time. Use the Mode button to cycle displays. Maintenance reminders (P25, P50, P100) indicate required service.

PAIRING THE KEY FOB: Ensure the battery is connected and the fuel selector is OFF. Turn the battery switch ON. Press and hold the Engine Start/Stop button for 10 seconds until the LED flashes green, then release. Press and hold the start button on the key fob for one second, then release. A solid green LED indicates successful pairing. If unsuccessful, repeat the process or contact customer service.

BREAK-IN PERIOD: For the first five hours, do not exceed 50% of rated running watts. Use standard oil, not full synthetic, during break-in. Vary the load occasionally to help seat piston rings.

STARTING THE GENERATOR:

• Electric Start: Push and hold the Engine START/STOP button for two seconds. If it doesn't start, the battery may need charging; use the recoil handle.
• Recoil Start: Ensure fuel valve is ON, choke is ON, and fuel selector is set. Pull the recoil handle.

To add loads: After starting, allow the generator output to stabilize. Connect and start the largest device first, then proceed sequentially with other devices.

STOPPING THE GENERATOR:

• Remove all connected loads.
• Allow the generator to run at "no load" for a short period to cool down.
• Press and hold the Engine START/STOP button or the stop button on the key fob for one second to stop the generator.
• Turn the battery switch OFF.
• Turn the fuel selector switch to FUEL OFF.
• Stop the flow of fuel (close fuel valve, cylinder valve, or supply line valve).
• Disconnect fuel hoses if necessary.
• Emergency Stop: Press and hold the Engine START/STOP button or key fob stop button for one second.

CIRCUIT BREAKERS: The 20 amp and 30 amp circuit breakers protect individual circuits. The main circuit breaker protects the entire generator. If a breaker trips, turn off the connected device, remove it, and reset the breaker.

TRANSPORTING: Turn off the generator and allow it to cool for 30 minutes. Use the generator's frame to lift or secure it. Keep the unit level during transport. Drain the fuel tank or run the engine until empty if possible. CAUTION: Do not up-end or place the generator on its side, as fuel or oil can leak.

Care and Maintenance

WARNING: Accidental start-up. Disconnect the spark plug boot when performing maintenance.

WARNING: Replace damaged or worn items with recommended parts. Using incompatible parts can create a hazard.

WARNING: Allow hot components to cool for 30 minutes before maintenance.

CLEANING THE GENERATOR: Do not store or operate in dirty, dusty, or corrosive environments. Do not clog vents. NEVER clean with a garden hose. Use a soft brush, damp cloth, and low-pressure air (max 25 psi) for cleaning. Never use gasoline as a cleaning agent.

CLEANING/REPLACING THE AIR FILTER:

NOTICE: NEVER operate without an air filter. A dirty filter causes poor performance.

• Remove the air filter cover.
• Remove and clean the air filter by washing it in a solution of detergent soap and warm water, squeezing gently. Do not twist or tear.
• Rinse with fresh water and allow to dry thoroughly.
• Dip the clean filter in clean engine oil and squeeze out excess oil.
• Install the filter and cover.

CHANGING THE ENGINE OIL:

NOTICE: Change oil while the engine is warm but not hot. Warm oil drains more quickly and thoroughly.

• Turn off the generator and let it cool for 30 minutes.
• Place the generator on a level surface.
• Place an oil pan under the oil drain bolt.
• Remove the drain bolt and allow oil to drain completely.
• Replace the drain bolt.
• Refill with recommended engine oil (refer to Operation section for type and level).
• Replace the oil dipstick and hand-tighten. Clean up any spilled oil.

CLEANING/REPLACING THE SPARK PLUG:

NOTICE: ALWAYS use a Westinghouse OEM or compatible non-resistor-type spark plug. Resistor plugs can cause rough idling or misfire.

• Turn off the generator and let it cool for 30 minutes.
• Remove the spark plug boot.
• Clean the area around the spark plug.
• Remove the spark plug using the socket wrench.
• Inspect the spark plug; replace if electrodes are pitted or the insulator is cracked.
• Measure the spark plug electrode gap (0.024 - 0.032 in. / 0.60 - 0.80 mm) and adjust if necessary by bending the side electrode.
• Install the spark plug finger-tight, then tighten 3/8 to 1/2 turn with the wrench.
• Install the spark plug boot.

CLEANING THE SPARK ARRESTOR: Check and clean the spark arrestor according to the maintenance schedule. Failure to clean it will degrade engine performance.

• Turn off the generator and let it cool for 30 minutes.
• Remove the spark arrestor bracket, screen, and spark arrestor.
• Gently clean the screen and spark arrestor with a wire brush.
• Reinstall securely.

DRAINING THE FUEL TANK AND CARBURETOR FLOAT BOWL:

WARNING: Store gasoline in approved containers. Unapproved containers can leak.

To prevent gum and varnish buildup, drain the float bowl if storing for 2-6 months, or drain the fuel tank and float bowl if storing for longer than 6 months.

• Turn off the generator and let it cool for 30 minutes.
• Disconnect fuel hoses.
• To drain the float bowl: Turn the fuel selector to FUEL OFF and close the fuel valve. Place a drain hose on the bottom of the float bowl and into an approved gasoline container. Loosen the drain screw and allow fuel to drain. Tighten the screw.

STORAGE:

• Allow the generator to cool for 30 minutes. Keep the unit upright.
• Drain fuel before storing. Store the unit and fuel separately in well-ventilated areas away from ignition sources.

NOTICE: Gasoline can deteriorate in as little as 30 days, causing buildup in fuel lines. Use of fuel stabilizer significantly increases storage life.

• Storage Time:
• Less than 1 month: Clean exterior, remove debris from vents.
• 2 to 6 months: Clean exterior, drain float bowl.
• 6 months or longer: Clean exterior, drain fuel tank and float bowl. Put a tablespoon of engine oil into the spark plug cylinder, turn the recoil handle to distribute lubricant, and reinstall the spark plug. Change engine oil.

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE: Regular maintenance improves performance and extends service life. Follow hourly or calendar intervals, whichever comes first. More frequent service is required under adverse conditions.

¹ Change oil every month when operating under heavy load or in high temperatures. ² Clean more often under dirty or dusty conditions. Replace air filter if it cannot be adequately cleaned. ³ Recommend service by an authorized Westinghouse service dealer.

Maintenance parts can be purchased from the factory. Contact service@wpowereq.com or 1-855-944-3571 for parts.

Troubleshooting

Schematics

Schematics detailing the generator's electrical and mechanical systems are included in this manual but cannot be displayed in this text-based format.