Generator Size Calculator: Don’t Get Left in the Dark
Generator Size Calculator: Don’t Get Left in the Dark
When the grid goes down or the solar panels are covered in snow, a generator is your lifeline. But sizing it is tricky. If you buy one too small, it will stall when the A/C kicks in.
If you buy one too big, you waste fuel and money. Use this engineering tool by ShockTrail to calculate your exact wattage requirements.
The Generator Sizer
Select the appliances you need to run simultaneously to see your required generator size.
Backup Generator Sizer
Select everything you want to run at the same time0 Watts
Recommendation: Look for a 2000W Inverter model.
The “Surge” Trap: Running vs. Starting Watts
A refrigerator might only use 200 Watts to run, but it requires 1200 Watts for a split second to start the compressor motor. This is called Starting Watts or “Surge Capacity.”
If your generator is rated for 2000W but your appliances surge to 2500W, the generator’s breaker will trip immediately. Leading engine manufacturer Briggs & Stratton advises sizing your generator based on the highest surge load plus all running loads.
Inverter vs. Open Frame: Silence Costs Money
There are two main types of portable generators:
| Type | Noise Level | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Inverter Generator (Honda/Predator) | Very Quiet (50-60 dBA) | Camping, RVs, Sensitive Electronics (Pure Sine Wave). |
| Open Frame (Contractor) | Loud (70-80+ dBA) | Construction sites, Emergency whole-house backup. |
Carbon Monoxide: The Silent Killer
Never, ever run a generator indoors or in a garage. Generators emit Carbon Monoxide (CO), a colorless, odorless gas that kills in minutes. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), you should place your generator at least 20 feet away from your home.
Propane (LPG) vs. Gas vs. Diesel
Many modern generators are “Dual Fuel.” Running on Propane is cleaner and the fuel doesn’t go bad in storage (unlike gasoline, which degrades in 6 months). However, Propane produces about 10-15% less power than gasoline. Check the specs carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I connect a generator to my breaker panel?
Only if you have a Transfer Switch or an Interlock Kit installed by an electrician. Backfeeding (plugging a generator into a dryer outlet) is illegal and can kill utility workers.
What happens if I overload the generator?
Modern generators have circuit breakers that will trip to protect the engine. You will lose power and have to turn off some appliances before resetting the breaker.
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