When you need to install a backup generator at your home, you may wonder how big a generator you need. It’s a good idea to calculate the wattage requirements of your appliances, which will help you figure out how much power your backup generator will need to provide. But, it’s also a good idea to avoid undersizing your power needs.
Calculate wattage requirements
If you have a generator, you want to make sure it can keep your appliances running when you need it most. To do that, you’ll need to calculate wattage requirements. A good place to start is your appliance owner’s manual. There you’ll find power requirement tables that can help you estimate how many kilowatts you need.
You may also want to consider using a wattage calculator. These are a great tool to help you figure out your backup generator’s size and voltage mixing. The key to a successful wattage calculation is the total running wattage of your devices.
Starting wattage is a little different than running wattage. Many electric tools and appliances will require extra energy when they’re first started. However, these wattages are also approximate. This is why you’ll have to multiply the starting wattage by the wattage of all devices you’ll be running.
When you run the numbers, you’ll notice that starting wattage usually exceeds running wattage. For example, a washing machine might need 2,300 watts when it’s turned on.
Consider your appliances’ electrical demands
In the context of portable generators, you can’t expect all your appliances to be plugged in. This is especially true if you have a large family or work from home. The key is to have a plan B. Keeping a back up battery charged is the smart way to go. You may even want to consider a backup generator that is powered by the sun. If you do, be sure to take your own sweet time to decide on a reputable manufacturer. A high quality brand is well worth the extra hassle and money. Plus, if you do a little shopping around, you should be able to find a deal you can’t pass up. With the right preparation, you will be able to enjoy the fruits of your labor for years to come.
Before you embark on a quest to find the best generator for your household, make sure to list all your essentials in one place. This will give you a clearer picture of your power supply and your ability to cope with a power outage. During the process, it is also a good idea to pick a backup generator that is both affordable and reliable.
Select a generator that protects against back-feeding electricity
If you’re thinking of purchasing a portable generator for your home, you should consider buying one that is built to protect against back-feeding electricity. Back-feeding happens when the electricity from your home generator feeds back into the power line, potentially re-energizing the utility lines and putting both you and your neighbors at risk.
The best way to avoid back-feed is to install a transfer switch. Using a transfer switch will isolate selected circuits from power lines, which eliminates the risk of back-feeding and other hazards associated with a direct connection. A transfer switch can also be used to maximize the amount of power your generator can provide.
The most important thing to remember when using a portable generator is to make sure it is in a dry and well-ventilated area. Generators produce carbon monoxide if they are exposed to damp air. Make sure your generator is installed by a qualified technician. You may also want to purchase a standby model, as they are designed to be connected to your home’s electrical panel.
Avoid undersizing
When you’re deciding on a standby generator for your home, you need to make sure that you choose the right size. You should also consider the cost of the generator and the company that you’re renting it from. Also, you should ask about how the rental company will install the generator, as well as how much it will cost you to have the generator delivered.
You should avoid undersizing your backup generator, as it will be inefficient and may lead to power failures. A large generator is also likely to burn fuel, which will cost you money. Moreover, undersized generators may cause brown out, a condition in which the lights flicker, but not light up. Furthermore, undersized generators may also shut down due to voltage or frequency drops. In addition, undersized generators can also damage your large appliances.
The best way to determine the right size of your generator is to consult a professional. This is particularly important if you’re purchasing a commercial generator, as there are many factors to take into consideration.