What size generator do I need?
Plain-English guides to working out how many watts you need.
What size generator do I need for a 30 amp RV?A 30 amp RV can draw 3,600 W at most. That's a ceiling, not a size. One 13,500 BTU AC plus basics needs about 2,200 running and 4,000 starting W.What size generator do I need for an electric water heater?An electric water heater uses 3,000–4,500 W at 240 V. Plan on 5,500+ running watts, a 240 V outlet and a transfer switch. Sizes explained.What size generator do I need to run a gas furnace?A gas furnace only needs power for its blower and controls: about 700 running and 1,800 starting watts. Why an inverter is the safer pick.What size generator do I need to run a refrigerator and freezer?A fridge and freezer together need about 700 running and 1,500 starting watts. A 2,000 W generator usually covers both. Older units need more.What size generator do I need for a sump pump?A 1/2 HP sump pump needs about 1,000 running and 2,150 starting watts. Add a fridge and you need about 3,000–3,500 W. Here's the math.What size generator do I need for a travel trailer?Most travel trailers need 2,000 W without AC, or about 3,000–4,500 W to run one roof AC. Sizes by AC, trailer length and what you plug in.What size generator do I need for a well pump?A 1/2 HP well pump runs on about 1,000 W but needs a 2–3 kW generator to start. Most are 240 V. Sizes by HP, and how to hook it up safely.What size generator do I need for a window AC?Window AC watts by BTU, from 5,000 to 12,000. An 8,000 BTU unit needs about 750 running and up to 2,000 starting watts. Sizes and a table.What size generator do I need?Add up running watts, then add the one biggest start-up surge. Most homes need 3,000–4,500 W for the essentials. Here's the simple math.