What Size GENERATOR Do I Need To POWER My House? SIMPLE!
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Introduction
Are you considering investing in a generator for your home but unsure about what size you need? You’re in the right place! In this guide, we will explore the essential factors to determine the right size generator for you in just five straightforward steps.
Step 1: Establish Your Budget
Before diving into specifications, establish your budget. If your budget is around $ 500, your options will be limited. With $ 1,000, you can get a more robust model. If you possess an unlimited budget, well, you could consider sponsoring this channel (just kidding!). For a median price point around $ 1,000, let’s explore your needs.
Step 2: Define Your Needs
What appliances do you aim to run with the generator? Are you looking to power everything in your home, including high-drain appliances like electric stoves and water heaters, or just the basics? If you’re more like me, you might want to power everything except for those high-drain devices.
Additionally, consider whether you need to run everything all at once or if you're okay with alternating appliances. If you have sensitive electronics, such as a CPAP machine or a new furnace with sophisticated electronics, you will require an inverter generator to protect those devices.
Step 3: Calculate Your Power Needs
Once you know what you need to run and your preferences, it’s time for some calculations. Write down the wattage of each appliance, which can usually be found on an identification sticker or by looking up the model number online.
For instance, here’s a breakdown based on my household needs:
- Furnace blower: 800 watts
- Refrigerator: 700 watts
- Miscellaneous lights: 400 watts
- TV and electronics: 300 watts
- Sump pump: 800 watts
- Window AC unit: 800 watts
Total running watts = 4300 watts.
To ensure you can manage surges when appliances kick on (like furnaces or sump pumps), always add a 20% buffer. Therefore, look for a generator with at least 5500 running watts. Consequently, for peak watts, you should target around 6,500 watts.
Step 4: Choose Your Fuel Type
Next, decide on the type of fuel your generator will use. Do you have a propane tank readily available, or is there a natural gas line sourced to your home? Alternatively, you might want a generator that runs on gasoline, which is often the most powerful option. Consider that with propane and natural gas, you may see a 10% drop in wattage capacity when compared to gasoline.
Step 5: Select Your Generator
Based on my requirement of having around 5500 running watts on gasoline without the need for sensitive electronics, here are a few recommendations:
- Ferm PP05701: Priced around $ 800, this generator offers 5700 running watts.
- Champion Model 20158: At approximately $ 900, it provides 7500 running watts.
- Westinghouse WGen5300c: Available for about $ 700, this generator delivers 5300 running watts.
Bonus Tip: Keep Your Generator in Shape
Utilize Seafoam, often referred to as "magic in a can." This additive helps prevent your gasoline from degrading and cleans any built-up gunk in your generator. This ensures that your generator starts smoothly every time.
Thus, if you’ve made it this far, this article was tailored just for you. Don’t forget to subscribe for more insightful guides! If inverter generators piqued your interest, check out our dedicated article exploring their features.
Keywords
generator, budget, wattage, appliances, inverter generator, fuel type, running watts, peak watts, Seafoam, home power.
FAQ
1. How do I determine the wattage of my appliances?
You can find the wattage by locating the sticker on the back of the device or searching for the model number online.
2. Why do I need a buffer in my generator wattage?
Adding a buffer helps accommodate the initial surge in power that some appliances require when they start.
3. What are the differences between fuel types for generators?
Gasoline generators provide the highest wattage, followed by propane and natural gas, which can lose about 10% efficiency compared to gasoline.
4. What is an inverter generator?
An inverter generator is designed to provide clean power for sensitive electronics and offers better fuel efficiency and quieter operation compared to conventional generators.
5. How can I maintain my generator?
Using additives like Seafoam can help keep your fuel fresh and clean out deposits, ensuring your generator runs smoothly.