What Size Generator Do I Need?

Introduction
When it comes to keeping up with your household power needs, it’s important to know what size generator you need. Generators are a great way to provide backup power during events like power outages, and to provide a steady supply of electricity for things like RV camping or remote cabin living. But in order for a generator to be effective, it has to be the right size for the job! Read on to learn more about what size generator you need and how to determine the right size for you.

Understanding Generator Size

The size of a generator is considered to be its maximum output, measured in watts or kilowatts (1000 watts). Most generator manuals will specify both the maximum output (measured in watts) and the surge output (measured in kilowatts). The surge output is the maximum power output a generator can provide for a brief period of time. For example, if a generator is rated at 5000 watts maximum and has a surge output of 6000 watts, it means that it can deliver 5000 watts of continuous power and up to 6000 watts for a brief moment of time. It’s important to remember that generators are not designed to be run at their maximum output for prolonged periods of time, as this could damage the unit.

Calculating Your Power Needs

To determine what size generator you need, you need to calculate your total power needs. Start by making a list of all the devices and appliances you plan to power with your generator. For each item, check the wattage (you can usually find this on a label on the back or bottom of the appliance). If you can’t find the wattage, you can use the formulas provided in the manual. You should also factor in any additional power needs that the appliance has, such as a surge. Once you’ve tallied up all the power needs, you can determine the size of generator you need.

Conclusion
Determining what size generator you need is an important step that shouldn’t be overlooked. It’s important to make sure that your generator is the correct size for your power needs, so that it doesn’t become damaged or less efficient. By doing a careful calculation of your power needs and understanding what size generator you need, you can rest assured that your generator will be doing its job properly.