guide · Generators
What Size Generator Do I Need for a Refrigerator, Well Pump, or House?
Generator size is not about powering everything at once. It is about deciding what must keep running and understanding the starting load of the equipment involved.
Make a priority list
Start with what you truly need during an outage. Food refrigeration, water, lights, medical equipment, and heat-related equipment may all matter, but they do not necessarily need to run at the same time.
Motors change the calculation
Refrigerators, pumps, and similar equipment can need more power when starting than when running. Use the current manufacturer information for the exact equipment and generator, and get professional help if you are planning a whole-home connection.
Do not improvise the connection
Use an approved transfer setup for powering home circuits. Backfeeding a home is dangerous to you, your neighbors, and utility workers. A qualified electrician can help design the right setup.