What Wattage Generator Is Right for Me?

During a power outage, having a generator can be handy. However, choosing the correct wattage can feel overwhelming with many options. Whether preparing for a storm, planning a camping trip, or needing backup power for your home, understanding wattage is key to finding the right fit.

Running vs. Starting Power

Generators are rated by watts, which measure how much electricity they can produce. However, not all watts are the same. Every appliance requires two types of wattage:

• Starting watts (or surge watts): The extra power needed to start an appliance.
• Running watts: The amount of power needed to keep it running.

For example, a refrigerator might need 1,200 watts to work but only 700 watts to run continuously. Knowing both numbers is essential, especially when planning to run multiple appliances simultaneously.

Figuring Out Your Power Needs

Consider what you’ll want to run during a power outage or while using your generator. Are you just keeping the fridge cold or the lights on? Do you need to power heavier equipment, an air conditioner, or your entire home?

Let’s say you want to run a refrigerator, lights, a fan, and a microwave. That might require anywhere from 2,000 to 4,000 watts, depending on the specific models and how many things you run simultaneously. If you add a sump pump, window AC unit, or water heater, your needs can quickly climb into the 5,000 to 7,500-watt range or higher.

Matching Wattage to Generator Size

Once you’ve estimated your wattage needs, you can choose the right power generator type:

• Small portable generators (1,000 to 2,000 watts) are great for camping or charging phones, running a laptop, and powering small devices.
• Mid-sized generators (3,000 to 5,000 watts) can power a fridge, lights, and a few small appliances—ideal for basic home backup.
• Large portable generators (5,000 to 7,000 watts) are enough to keep essential household systems, including well pumps and sump pumps, running.
• Whole-house or standby generators (7,500 to 10,000 watts) are designed to power nearly everything in your home and are installed permanently outdoors.

Don’t Overlook Safety and Fuel Type

Generator safety is just as important as size. Always run portable generators outside, far from windows and doors, to avoid carbon monoxide buildup. You’ll also need to decide whether you prefer a gasoline, propane, or dual-fuel mode. Gas is convenient, but propane stores better in the long term.

Opt for a Generator That Meets Your Power Needs

Choosing your wattage generator doesn’t have to be complicated. Once you understand your power needs and how wattage works, picking a generator that fits your lifestyle becomes much easier. Contact us today at the Generator Supercenter of Jacksonville for efficient generators and generator monitoring systems in Florida.