How to Buy the Right Size Generator

A generator is an investment for the home that can provide power during an emergency. Consumers can get the most for their money when choosing a generator by purchasing the right size generator for the home. Choosing a generator that is too small will not provide enough power to run essential equipment in the home and a power overload could damage the generator and your home's electrical system. A generator that is too large will burn more fuel than needed, wasting money.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Know the size of your home in square feet. This number can help to estimate the size of the generator you need based on the daily demands to your home's electrical system.

2. Choose essential appliances that you want to keep running during a power outage. This will determine how many kilowatts the generator will need to run all of these appliances at once.

3. Note the starting or running wattage of each essential appliance before shopping for a generator. If you cannot find the running wattage in the owner's manual, take a look at a power consumption chart to get an estimate of power use.

4. Calculate the total wattage use. If an appliance or tool is expressed in amperes, use wattage = amperes x volts to calculate it into watts.

5. Consult a generator dealer to see your options. Dealers can provide you with the specifications of each model in the size range that your home requires.

Tips & Warnings

• Have your generator installed by a licensed electrician to ensure safety and compliance with building codes. Choose a dual output (120/240) generator if you plan to keep water heaters, well pumps or air conditioning units running when the generator is in use.
• Never use a generator indoors. Most generators run on gas or diesel and the fumes can be hazardous to your health.

References

• Gillette Generators
• Diesel Service & Supply Power Consumption Chart