Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

I ordered the WEN 1800 because I wanted a generator that was no heavier than 50-55 pounds, yet one that would be rated at at least 12 amps. I also wanted a generator with US based customer service. At 51 pounds, 12.5 amps, and a toll-free customer service department with US English speaking tech support folks, this generator suited me just fine. The generator arrived well packaged and without any damage. If you follow the instructions regarding keeping the generator level, getting the oil in can be a bit of a hassle. Once I decided to use a long, transmission oil funnel the oil went right in. I measured out 13.5 oz of 30W oil in a measuring cup and that saved some time.I then put in some 87 ethanol-free gas, turned the on-off switch to "on," turned the choke to "start" and turned the fuel shut-off valve to "on." The generator cranked on the 4th pull. I wanted to run it for about 1/2 hour without a load just to get the engine somewhat broken-in. I figured the little bit of gas I put in would run out in about 1/2 hour. Wrong. After about an hour of running, I turned the fuel shut-off value to "off" and let the gas run out of the carb. Once it shut down, I checked the fuel tank and it still had most of the fuel I had put in it. So, I am inclined to go along with the company's claim of 7.5 hours on 1/2 load. While running, the noise level was about what I expected. Not super quiet, but not so loud that you have to raise your voice when talking around it. By the way, the 30W oil for small engines is in the lawn and garden section at Wal-Mart. Don't look for it in automotive where you normally look for oil. Wal-Mart had one brand of 30W small engine oil that had the SL API service classification - one of the three recommended service classifications referenced in the owners manual. Be sure to print out your Amazon order details and put them with your owners manual. That will serve as your proof of purchase in the event you need to have any repairs made during the 2-year warranty period. I also purchased the WEN 56406 cover, but it was way too large for the 1800 generator, While it looks to be very durable and well made, it was simply not made for this generator. Overall, this is a sweet little generator. I highly recommend it if it meets your power requirements. UPDATE: Since the Wen 56406 cover didn't work out because it was too large, I decided to try a plastic tote like container. I carefully measured the generator dimensions and went to the store with my tape measure. After measuring a number of containers that looked like they might work, I settled on one that seemed to be the perfect size. It cost $5.47 plus tax. See attached pics. I like the advantage that I can use this container to haul the generator around in my van and the container will keep any oil or fuel from leaking onto the van interior. So far, this is a better "cover" than the Wen 56406.