How Much Power Do You Need?
|
Device* |
Running watts |
Starting watts |
|
Television - Color |
300 |
300 |
|
Lighting circuit (6 x 60w
bulbs) |
360 |
360 |
|
Desktop computer |
600 |
600 |
|
Drill 1/2" Electric |
1000 |
1250 |
|
Microwave Oven |
625 |
1425 |
|
Furnace Fan -1/3 HP |
700 |
2100 |
|
Refrigerator or Freezer |
700 |
2900 |
|
Water well pump (1/2 hp) |
1000 |
3000 |
|
Water heater (storage type) |
5000 |
5000 |
|
Table Saw 10 inches |
1800 |
6300 |
|
Central AC (24,000 BTU/2
HP) |
3300 |
11200 |
|
*Different makes and models
vary widely in electrical needs. |
Size right and save! Obviously, a generator that's
undersized for the work it's required to do will wear out too fast and also
risk damage to your circuitry. But oversizing your system can also lead to
costly wet stacking and carbon in diesel engines.
To estimate the right size for your standby power system,
you can start by simply listing the wattages and peak loads of the devices you
want to run. The label on most electrical devices will tell you their required
wattage, but some allowance is needed for the extra starting surge from most
motor-driven devices. Refrigerators, well pumps and power tools can draw as
much as six times their running watts!
But.
Also remember that you will rarely run all your utilities,
appliances and tools at the same time when the power lines are down. In fact,
you may decide that you don't need some appliances or circuits to receive power
at all!
Avoid overbuying!
Consult your Sommers generator expert to help you
calculate your real needs accurately, so you can choose the system that's
right-sized for you!
This chart shows you a few examples of power ratings to
get you started. To see your actual rates of electrical consumption throughout
the year, check your monthly utility bill. Then call your authorized Sommers dealer for a personal
evaluation of the power demands in your home or office through a typical day.
Want more help right now?
Use our contact
form to reach Sommers' customer support or call Sommers toll-free help line
at 1-800-690-2396.
|
