Picking the right size generator to run a house can feel overwhelming with all the technical specs and wattage numbers to consider. This article will discuss the key considerations, explore different types of generators available, provide sizing recommendations, and offer maintenance tips to help you figure out what size generator you need.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Generator Size
Choosing the right generator size is crucial. Whether you’re preparing for emergencies or need backup power, understanding your home’s layout, wattage needs, and usage scenarios will help you make an informed decision.
1. Home Size and Layout
Is your home a cozy cottage or a sprawling mansion? The size and layout of your home play a significant role in determining the right generator size. You wouldn’t want a tiny generator struggling to power a large home, right?
2. Calculating Wattage Needs
Choosing the right generator size, add up the wattages of everything you want to power. Make a list of your must-have items first.
Common household items and their typical wattage needs:
- Refrigerator: 700-1200 watts
- Window AC: 1000-1500 watts
- Microwave: 600-1200 watts
- Light bulbs: 60-75 watts each
- TV: 100-200 watts
You don’t need to run everything at once. Plan to run essential items like your fridge and some lights, then rotate other appliances as needed.
3. Starting and Running Wattages
Appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners have higher starting wattage than running watts, meaning they require more power to kickstart.
By considering both starting and running watts, you can ensure your generator can handle the surge without breaking a sweat.
Add up the running watts of items you’ll use at the same time. Your total should include some extra capacity. Add 20% to your calculated needs for a safety margin.
4. Usage Scenarios
Think about different situations when you’ll need power. You might need less power at night than during the day. Create a schedule of when you’ll run different appliances.
Some examples:
- Morning: Coffee maker, toaster, lights
- Daytime: Refrigerator, few lights, laptop
- Evening: Lights, TV, microwave
Plan to rotate heavy-draw appliances instead of running them together.
Types of Portable Generators
Portable generators come in two main types with different features to match your power needs. Each type has unique benefits for specific uses.
Conventional Generators
Traditional portable generators are strong workhorses that can power many appliances at once. These units run at a constant speed of 3600 RPM to produce electricity, making them perfect for job sites and emergency backup power.
You’ll find these generators are usually cheaper than inverter models. They can power multiple appliances and tools without issues.
The main drawback is they tend to be loud and heavy. Their power output can also fluctuate slightly, which might affect sensitive electronics.
Inverter Generators
Modern inverter technology creates clean, stable power that’s safe for phones, laptops, and other electronics. These generators adjust their engine speed based on power demand, which saves fuel and reduces noise.
You’ll appreciate that inverter generators are quieter and more portable than conventional models. They’re ideal for camping, RVs, and quiet operation at home.
The trade-off is they typically cost more and have lower power output. Most inverter models range from 1,000 to 4,000 watts.
Choosing the Right Generator
Picking a generator means looking at key factors that affect how well it will meet your needs. The right choice depends on what you want to power and where you plan to use it.
Fuel Type Options
Gas generators are common and easy to refuel. You can find gas at any station, and these models tend to cost less up front. They work great for home backup and camping trips.
Propane generators run cleaner and the fuel lasts longer in storage. You can store propane tanks for years without it going bad.
Dual fuel generators give you the best of both worlds. You can switch between gas and propane depending on what’s available or cheaper.
Portability Features
Weight is super important if you plan to move your generator around. Look for models with solid wheels and handles.
Most portable generators weigh between 100-200 pounds when full. Lighter models around 50-100 pounds work better for camping or tailgating.
Built-in wheels should be at least 8 inches wide for good mobility. Solid wheels beat pneumatic ones since they never go flat.
Fold-down handles make storage easier. Check that the handle height feels comfortable for your height.
Runtime and Capacity
A bigger fuel tank means longer runtime between refills. Most portable generators run 8-12 hours at 50% load.
The size you need depends on your use:
- Small (2000-4000 watts): 4-6 hours runtime
- Medium (4000-7000 watts): 8-10 hours runtime
- Large (7000+ watts): 10-12+ hours runtime
Your actual runtime varies based on load. Running at full power cuts runtime roughly in half.
Noise Level Considerations
Generator noise is measured in decibels (dB). Lower numbers mean quieter operation.
Small inverter generators are quietest at 50-60 dB. That’s about as loud as normal conversation.
Standard portable generators run at 65-75 dB. This is more like a vacuum cleaner.
Noise level goes up with size and power output. Using the generator farther away helps reduce noise impact.
Some models have special sound dampening features. Look for enclosed designs and rubber mounting blocks.
Safety Tips for Portable Generators
Safe generator operation protects you and your family from serious hazards like carbon monoxide poisoning and electrical accidents. Following proper safety guidelines can prevent dangerous situations.
Always place your generator at least 15 feet away from windows and doors.
Make sure your generator has 3-4 feet of clear space on all sides and above it.
Never run a generator in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces.
Consider using a proper generator cover during rainy weather.
Place them near sleeping areas and check the batteries monthly.
Electrical Safety
Never operate your generator with wet hands to avoid electrical shock.
Use heavy-duty extension cords rated for outdoor use.
Don’t plug your generator directly into a wall outlet.
Store fuel in approved safety containers away from living spaces.
Ground your generator properly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Regular maintenance keeps your generator running smoothly and helps prevent breakdowns when you need power most. You should check for leaks before each use of your generator.
Keep fresh fuel in your generator and add a fuel stabilizer if you won’t use it for more than 30 days. Change the oil regularly according to your owner’s manual.
Key maintenance tasks include:
- Check and change oil
- Clean or replace air filters
- Inspect spark plugs
- Test the battery
- Run the generator monthly for 20-30 minutes
Store your generator in a clean, dry place when not in use. Put a cover over it to protect from dust and debris.
Standby generators need service every 100-200 hours of use or every 1-2 years. Portable generators typically need less frequent maintenance.
Pro tip: Write down when you perform maintenance tasks. This helps you keep track of what needs to be done and when.
Clean the exterior regularly and check for loose parts or connections. A well-maintained generator lasts longer and works better when you need it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate the power requirements of the appliances I want to run during an outage?
Check the label on each appliance for its wattage rating. Add starting watts for motor-driven appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners. Multiply your total by 1.2 to create a safe power buffer.
What size generator would be necessary to power essential appliances in a 3-bedroom home?
A 4,000-5,000 watt generator runs basic items like lights, refrigerator, and some electronics. You’ll need 7,000+ watts to run an air conditioner along with other appliances.
Can I use a 7500 watt portable generator to run the common household appliances?
A 7,500-watt generator handles most essential household items simultaneously. You can run a refrigerator, lights, TV, microwave, and even a window AC unit.