How To Figure Generator Size For House

Okay, let's talk generators. Not the fun kind that throws sparks. Nope, the kind that keeps your Netflix binge alive when the power grid throws a tantrum.

The Great Appliance Census

First, we need a head count. A head count of your electricity-guzzling appliances. Grab a notepad (or your phone if you're fancy). We're going hunting.

Think refrigerator. Think lights. Think the all-important coffee maker. (Priorities, people!).

Round Up Your Usual Suspects

Let's start easy. The fridge. That bad boy needs power to keep your leftovers from staging a moldy revolt. Write down its wattage. It's usually on a sticker inside.

Next, the lights. LEDs are angels, barely sipping power. Incandescent bulbs? Those are the energy vampires of the lighting world. Note what wattage of light you use.

Furnace fan. If you have gas heat, the fan that circulates the air needs power. Don't forget your computer or TV!

The "Startup Surge" Sneak Attack

Here's the sneaky part. Some appliances need a burst of power to get going. This is called a startup surge. It's like the appliance is a grumpy teenager who needs a jolt to get out of bed.

Think about your air conditioner. That compressor needs a mighty heave-ho to start cooling you down. This surge is MUCH higher than its running wattage. Be aware of it.

Motors, compressors, anything with moving parts likely has a surge. Always add the surge, not just the regular watts.

Watt's Up With These Numbers?

Alright, you've got your list. Now comes the math. Don't panic. It's not calculus. Unless you want to use calculus. In that case, you're on your own.

Add up all the running watts of everything you absolutely need to run simultaneously. This is your survival wattage. No room for heated towel racks here. Unless...

Then, find the appliance with the highest startup surge. Add that surge to your total running watts. BOOM. You’ve got your minimum generator size.

The Unpopular Opinion: Go Bigger

Here's my (possibly unpopular) opinion. Go bigger than you think you need. It’s always better to have more power than less.

Imagine the horror. You carefully calculated your generator size... and then forgot to account for your phone charger. Or, worse, the electric blanket on a freezing night.

A slightly bigger generator gives you breathing room. It also won't have to work as hard, possibly extending its life. Think of it as buying pants that are slightly too big. Always better than too small, right?

Generator Types: A Quick Rundown

Okay, you know the size. Now, which type of generator? There are generally two main types, portable and standby.

Portable generators are like the Swiss Army knives of the power outage world. You wheel them out, plug them in (carefully!), and they roar to life.

Standby generators are permanently installed. They automatically kick on when the power goes out. These are the luxury SUVs of the generator world. Pricey, but convenient.

Fueling the Beast: Gas, Propane, or Diesel?

Portable generators usually run on gasoline or propane. Gasoline is readily available, but it can go stale. Propane stores well but requires a tank.

Standby generators can run on propane or natural gas. Natural gas is often the most convenient if you already have a line to your house.

Diesel generators are powerful and efficient. But they also tend to be louder and more expensive.

Safety First, People!

Okay, this isn't a joke. Generators produce carbon monoxide. It’s invisible, odorless, and deadly.

Never, ever run a generator indoors or in a garage. Keep it far away from windows and doors.

Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home. Seriously. Do it now. Your life depends on it.

The Extension Cord Conundrum

Extension cords. They're the bane of every homeowner's existence. Use the right gauge cord for the load you're plugging in.

Thin, flimsy cords can overheat and become a fire hazard. Invest in heavy-duty cords. Think of it as an investment in not burning your house down.

Don't daisy-chain extension cords. That's like asking for trouble. It's better to use one long, properly sized cord.

The Professional Touch (Maybe)

If all of this sounds overwhelming, call an electrician. They can help you choose the right generator and install it safely.

A professional can also ensure that your generator is properly grounded and wired into your electrical system. This is especially important for standby generators.

Think of it as hiring someone to assemble your IKEA furniture. You could do it yourself. But do you really want to?

Permits, Inspections, and Other Fun Stuff

Depending on your location, you may need permits to install a generator. Check with your local building department.

They may also require inspections to ensure that the installation meets safety codes. It's a pain, but it's better than getting fined.

Plus, a proper installation ensures that your generator isn’t going to set off a chain of unfortunate events in your house.

In Conclusion: Embrace the Power (Backup)

Choosing the right generator size doesn't have to be a nightmare. Do your research, calculate your needs, and don't be afraid to go bigger.

And remember, safety first. Carbon monoxide is a silent killer. Take it seriously.

Now go forth and conquer those power outages! May your Netflix never buffer, and your coffee always be hot.

Bonus points

Test your generator regularly. It's like exercising. Run it 15 to 30 minutes every month to keep it in good working condition.

Store fuel properly. Use fuel stabilizer if you are storing gasoline for a long time.

Change oil regularly. Keep your generator well-maintained and it will keep you going.