Generators, like many things, come in different sizes with different features. Different shoes can be designed for running, golf, basketball, and more. Different cars are equipped to be efficient, carry cargo, and perform in a variety of environments. The reason for all of these options is so that you have what you need to get the job done. This is why Honda generators are available in multiple sizes to accommodate the smallest necessities all the way up to the most comprehensive tasks. But how do you know which is best for your needs? Between hurricane season, tailgating, camping, and backup emergency power, the generator you choose should be versatile enough to handle your needs. But how do you know what size will deliver, without having too much or too little power?
Generator sizes are based on watts (W) or kilowatts (kW), which are both measurements of electricity. If you select a generator that is too small for your needs you can overload it by having it force to supply more power than it’s capable of. If this happens it will either automatically shut off, or it can overheat, which will not only ruin the generator, but also the appliances that are connected to it. If you purchase a generator that is too large, the biggest downside is that you’ll over pay in purchase price and operation costs.
It’s also important to know that appliances have a “starting” wattage and a “running” wattage. Starting, or surge wattage is the amount of power need to start an appliance, it is typically higher than the power required to run it. Running wattage is the amount of electricity required to constantly run. Here is a list of common appliances and items that a generator is commonly used for. Based on the varying combination of these items, whether your tailgating or have lost power from a storm, you can have a good understanding of how big of a generator that you need.
- Television: 380 starting/380 running
- Refrigerator: 2,900 starting/700 running
- AC Window Unit: 2,200 starting/1,500 running
- Microwave: 1,300 starting/1,300 running
- Laptop: 250 starting/250 running
These are only a few things that you may want or need to power. Before you shop for a generator, make a list of the things you both need, and want to provide power for. Once you have your list, check their starting wattage requirements, add them up, and that will tell you the size of generator you’ll need.
The Honda generator experts at Bozeman Distributors have been helping with the Baton Rouge area for over 50 years.