Understand Wattage
Running Watts
‘Running Watts’ refers to the power required to continuously run an electrical device after it has already started.
Starting Watts
‘Starting Watts’ refers to the momentary surge of power required to start motor-driven products like a refrigerator. You may need to estimate this by using the following equation if Running & Starting Watts are not known: WATTS=VOLTS x AMPS.
Determine Your Needs
Your generator should produce at least the calculated Total Starting Watts.
1
Determine Devices
Determine all the devices you need to run simultaneously. Record the required Running & Additional Starting Watts of all the devices selected.
2
Add All The Watts
Add the Running Watts of all items selected to be run simultaneously and record that number as your Total Running Watts.
3
Identify Highest Watts
Identify the device with the Highest Additional Starting Watts requirement and record that number.
4
Calculate Total Watts
Add your Total Running Watts to your Highest Additional Starting Watts. This is your Total Starting Watts required to power your devices!
Explore Generators
Now that you know your total starting watts, it's time to choose a generator that’s just right for you.
