Are you tired of losing power during storms or other emergencies? A backup generator can provide peace of mind and keep your home running during a power outage. But how do you choose the right size generator for your home? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to calculate the right size generator for your needs.
How to Size a Generator for Your Home: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Determine Your Power Needs
The first step in sizing a backup generator is to determine your power needs. Make a list of all the appliances and electrical devices you want to power during a power outage. Don’t forget to include essentials like your refrigerator, heating and cooling systems, and medical equipment.
Step 2: Calculate Your Power Usage
Once you’ve determined your power needs, calculate your power usage. This involves determining the starting and running watts for each device on your list. Starting watts are the amount of power required to start the device, while running watts are the amount of power required to keep the device running.
Step 3: Estimate Starting Watts vs Running Watts
Next, estimate the difference between starting watts and running watts. Some devices, like refrigerators and air conditioners, require more power to start up than to run. This means you’ll need to choose a generator with enough starting watts to handle these devices.
Step 4: Choose the Right Fuel Type
Backup generators can run on different types of fuel, including propane, natural gas, and diesel. Consider which type of fuel is most readily available in your area and which is most convenient for your needs.
Step 5: Consider Generator Type and Features
To make an informed decision, it’s important to understand the two main types of backup generators: portable and standby. Portable generators are less expensive and offer mobility, whereas standby generators are more expensive but provide more power and can be connected to your home’s electrical system. When choosing a generator, it’s crucial to consider your specific needs and preferences, such as automatic start and noise level.
Understanding Generator Capacity: Factors to Consider
- Power output in watts
- Fuel type and consumption rate
- Running time on a single tank of fuel
- Noise level
- Emissions
- Automatic start capability
- Generator Size Table
Generator size can vary depending on the power needs of your home. Here’s a table to help you choose the right size generator:
Generator Sizing Table
Choosing the right size backup generator for your home is essential for keeping your family safe and comfortable during power outages. By following these steps and considering the factors involved, you can find the perfect generator for your needs. Don’t wait until the next storm to invest in a backup generator – be prepared for anything with the right size and type of emergency generator. Contact Wave Electric for help deciding which backup generator is right for your home.
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