Generators

Contractor
Home Backup
Recreational
0 - 2,900 W
3,000 - 5,900 W
6,000 - 7,900 W
8,000 W +
Accessories
 

Selection Tool



How much wattage do you need in your portable generator? The answer depends primarily on 2 factors:

1. Identifying the running/starting watts of each appliance or electric tool you want to power.
2. Identifying what appliances/tools you want to power at the same time.



To help you estimate your wattage requirements, use the Wattage Wizard below. Please note this Wattage Wizard only provides an estimate of your needs. To determine your specific requirements, please check the specific amperage and voltage requirements for your items.  Amps x Volts = Watts.
Select the items you wish to power
Home Backup Power (Running/Starting Wattage)
 
Enter # of light bulbs 60 each AM/FM Radio - 100/100
Refrigerator/Freezer - 1200/3600 Sump pump (1/3 hp) - 1080/3800
Window Air Conditioner - 1200/2600 Microwave - 1680/3400
Space heater - 1000/1000 Dishwasher - 1080/3250
Television - 20" - 40" LCD - 240/240 Clothes Washer - 1200/3600
Television - 50" Plasma- 700/700 Clothes Dryer - 720/2200
Portable Refrigerator - 160/475    
 
Jobsite Electrical Tools
 
Reciprocating Saw - 1440/2600 1" Rotary Hammer Drill - 840/1100
12" Sliding Compound Miter Saw - 1800/4100 3/8" Drill/Driver - 780/1000
Circular Saw, Heavy Duty 71/4" - 1800/4100 Router - 1440/2900
10" Portable Table Saw - 1800/4100 3 1/4" Planer - 600/1200
1/2" VSR Drill - 960/1250 Orbital Sander- 360/800
1/2" Hammer Drill - 900/1200    
 
Miscellaneous Electrical Items
 
  Item 1  Running wattage Surge wattage will be calculated
  Does this use a motor?  Yes  No    
 
 
 
  Item 2  Running wattage Surge wattage will be calculated
  Does this use a motor?  Yes  No    
 
 
Disclaimer: This wattage selection guide should be considered an estimating tool only. Most systems can run these items intermittently. Check the power demands of your appliances to determine whether they can be run simultaneously. How did we compute?