Generators
Make a checklist for your generator needs.
Ask yourself: What do I need to power during a power outage? Consider a checklist of items such as lighting, appliances, computers and home electronics. Do you have in-home medical equipment? Or do you need just enough power to keep stocked food supplies refrigerated?
Determine the amount of power that is needed to run each appliance in your home.
You’ll want to be able to start (not simply run) your appliances. “Starting wattage” is the amount of wattage needed to start an appliance with a motor. This minimum wattage is usually two to three times the wattage required to run the appliance. If you have owner’s manuals: check for your appliances’ listed start-up wattages and pair this with the “running wattage”.
How to calculate your total power needs
- Add up all the running wattage for all the items you need to power simultaneously. This equals the total running watts your generator needs run your appliances and lighting.
- Add to that total the highest of the starting wattages for motor-driven appliances. Now you know how much power you need to start and run your appliances and equipment. Remember: ensure that you have enough wattage to start, run, and maintain operation of your necessary appliances.
You can comparison shop for generators within your wattage requirement. Or, you can read further about Natural Gas and Propane Generators.
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