How to choose a Generator
Generators are usually chosen based on their maximum and rated power. One must calculate what the total load will be in order to effectively choose the proper generator. Some appliances and equipment require a higher starting wattage and then it tapers.
Rule of thumb is to take the running wattage and multiply by 3 unless the appliance or equipment is under a constant load such as light bulbs.
Click on Amps, Watts,Volts and Kilowatts for the formula to calculate wattage. Otherwise use the charts provided below.
| Appliance | Wattage:(Running) | Wattage:(Starting) |
| Refrigerator | 700 | 2800 |
| Lights | Depend on bulb | Depend on bulb |
| Radio | 40 to 225 | 40 to 225 |
| Well Pump-1HP | 1000 | 3000 |
| Well Pump-2HP | 2000 | 6000 |
| Well Pump-3HP | 3000 | 9000 |
| Electric Water Heater | 4500 | 5000 |
| Freezer | 500 | 2500 |
| Microwave-1000 watt | 1000 | 1250 |
| Television | 300 to 800 | 300 to 800 |
| Electric Fry Pan | 500 to 1300 | 500 to 1300 |
| Electric Heat Pump | 10000 | 12500 |
| Gas Furnace Fan | 300 to 875 | 500 to 2350 |
| Coffee Maker | 1100 | 1100 |
| Hair Dryer | 1500 | 1500 |
| Stove Top-8" | 2100 | 2100 |
| Oven | 6500 | 6500 |
| Fan | 275 | 275 |
| Toaster | 200 | 200 |
| Electric Dryer | 6000 | 7000 |
| Washing Machine | 1200 | 1350 |
| Computer | 700 to 1000 | 700 to 1000 |
| Computer Monitor | 200 to 800 | 200 to 800 |
| Printer | 400 to 800 | 400 to 800 |
| Air Compress-1hp | 1600 | 5000 |
| Drill | 400 to 700 | 600 to 900 |
| 10" Table Saw | 1900 | 4800 |
| Bench Grinder | 1450 | 2750 |
What to look for in the actual generator
- Revolving field because it will be less weight and more efficient (up to 25% more) than a revolving armature generator.>
- Generator has a skewed stator so as to provide a smooth output wafeform.
- UL 2200 Listed
- Generator employs automatic voltage regulation to prevent voltage spikes from damage.
- Generator has a displaced phase excitation to maximize starting capability and provide more surge power than brushless generators.