How many watts should i get for a generator

Search form Search. Login Register. Choosing a Generator: Which Size is Right? Generator Safety Tips: Avoid dangerous electrical backfeeding! For your protection and the protection of Howell-Oregon Electric Cooperative linemen or any utility service crewmen against electrical shock or electrocution, call Howell-Oregon Electric Cooperative Customer Service and ask about a generator transfer switch. Installing a generator transfer switch at your meter base will assure safety against dangerous electrical backfeeding onto electrical lines during a power outage.

Never exceed the rated capacity of a generator. Always start the largest electric appliance first, then plug in other items, one at a time. Grounding the generator is recommended to help prevent accidental electrical shock.

Choose the appropriate extension cord for the tool or appliance. Follow these tips to protect against shock and electrocution: Keep the generator dry and do not use in rain or wet conditions. As current is created and flows from the generator into your home, the current will power whatever the generator is connected to. Wattage measures how much power a device actually uses.

To determine whole-house generator sizing, you need to determine the number of appliances and electrical devices you want to run and calculate the total wattage. First, list all the appliances you want or need to be running during a power outage. Next, write down the number of watts that are required in order to power up and run the devices.

The approximate running watts of some common household devices and appliances are:. Adding the total number of starting watts together will typically be higher than what you need your generator to produce. Keep in mind that a bigger generator is not always the best option.

Choosing a generator that can meet your basic needs will save on the cost of fuel. If this happens, your devices and appliances could be damaged.

Once you have the total number of starting watts that you need from a generator, you can determine the best size for your needs. Keep in mind not to overload the generator to prevent it from overheating and automatically shutting off.

To do this, choose a generator that needs to use no more than 90 percent of its capacity. That way, the generator will not have to overwork to provide energy to power your home. If you experience frequent and prolonged power outages, consider a large inverter or a home standby generator, also known as a whole-house generator. These can provide enough energy to power your entire house.

A generator specialist will also typically perform regular maintenance checks to ensure the generator is running properly. If you encounter occasional power outages that may or may not last an extended period, a large inverter or a large portable generator may work for you. Step 2: Determine the starting and running wattage of everything on your list.

Step 3: Add the wattage together. Then, use this number to guide what size generator you need. Keep in mind that a DIY wattage estimate is just that: an estimate. To be on the safe side, we recommend using a wattage calculator or, even better, having a professional electrician calculate the exact wattage you need to help you find the right size generator. If you want to power just about everything in your home, your list would probably look more like this one:.

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