When selecting a portable generator for home backup, one of the most critical factors to consider is the size of the generator. The right size ensures that you have sufficient power to keep essential appliances running during an outage without overloading the generator. Here’s a guide to help you determine the appropriate generator size for your home backup needs.
1. Understanding Generator Power Ratings
Portable generators are rated based on their power output, which is measured in watts. There are two key power ratings to be aware of:
- Running Watts (Continuous Watts): The amount of power a the best portable generator for home backup can provide continuously while running.
- Starting Watts (Surge Watts): The additional power required to start appliances that have a motor, such as refrigerators or air conditioners. This is typically higher than the running wattage.
A generator needs to provide enough running watts to power your essential appliances and enough starting watts to handle the initial surge when these appliances are turned on.
2. Assessing Your Power Needs
To determine the right generator size, start by listing the appliances and systems you want to keep running during an outage. Common items to consider include:
- Refrigerator/Freezer: 600-2,000 watts (depending on size and type).
- Heating/Cooling System: 1,000-5,000 watts (varies based on unit).
- Lights: 60-300 watts (based on the number of lights and their wattage).
- Medical Equipment: 100-1,000 watts (depending on the equipment).
- Sump Pump: 800-1,200 watts (depends on the pump size).
- Television and Electronics: 200-500 watts (varies by device).
Calculate the total running watts required and add the starting watts needed for appliances with motors.
3. Calculating Total Wattage
Once you have a list of the appliances and their wattages, sum up the running watts and determine the starting watts required. For example:
- Refrigerator: 800 watts (running) + 1,000 watts (starting).
- Lights (10 bulbs at 60 watts each): 600 watts (running) + no additional starting watts.
- Heater: 1,500 watts (running) + 2,000 watts (starting).
Total Running Watts Needed: 800 + 600 + 1,500 = 2,900 watts
Total Starting Watts Needed: 1,000 + 2,000 = 3,000 watts
In this example, you would need a generator with at least 2,900 running watts and 3,000 starting watts.
4. Choosing the Right Generator Size
Based on your calculations, select a generator with a power output that exceeds your total running and starting wattage requirements. It’s advisable to choose a generator with a slightly higher capacity than your calculated needs to ensure reliable performance and to accommodate any unexpected additional power requirements.
5. Considering Future Needs and Flexibility
Think about any future power needs or additional appliances you might want to include. A generator with extra capacity provides flexibility and can accommodate future upgrades or additional appliances without requiring a replacement.
6. Evaluating Generator Features
When choosing a generator size, consider additional features that may enhance usability:
- Fuel Efficiency: Larger generators often consume more fuel, so choose one with good fuel efficiency for longer run times.
- Noise Level: Larger generators may be noisier, so check the noise levels if you live in a residential area.
- Portability: Ensure the generator’s size and weight are manageable for your needs, especially if you plan to move it frequently.
7. Professional Assessment
For accurate sizing and to address any specific needs, consider consulting with a professional electrician. They can assess your home’s power requirements and recommend a generator that best fits your needs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right size portable generator for home backup involves understanding your power needs, calculating total wattage, and selecting a generator that provides sufficient running and starting watts. By carefully assessing your essential appliances and future needs, you can ensure that you have a reliable power source for any outage or emergency.
