how to determine house generator size

The basic generator sizing formula goes like this. Find a generator powerful enough to exceed the combined wattage of everything that needs electricity.

Choosing The Right Size Generator

To choose the best generator for a home these are factors to consider.

. Determine the starting wattage energy needed to turn it on and running wattage energy needed to operate it for each piece of equipment. How to Size a Generator. Remember even a properly connected portable generator can become overloaded resulting in overheating or generator failure.

Form a list of all items that will be powered. The best whole house generator can be helpful especially if you live in areas where tropical storms happen frequently. Simply fill out the details of your home and the watt calculator will do the work for you by suggesting the right portable generator size.

Surge wattage of the appliances and fixtures you want to power. To determine your homes exact power requirements we suggest contacting a certified electrician. To determine what size generator you need to power your whole house.

Known as backfeeding this practice puts utility workers your neighbors and your household at risk of electrocution. Well walk you through the process in more detail below. We have reviewed 7 of the best whole house generators you can purchase for home use in 2020.

Never try to power the house wiring by plugging the generator into a wall outlet. Figure out the starting wattage ie.

Choosing The Right Size Generator