How to Choose a Generator

  1. Determine which devices need to be powered simultaneously and record the running and starting requirement of the device.

    2. "Most electrical devices have a data tag attached that list volts, amps, phase, cycles and hp"

  2. Add the running watts of the devices that need to be powered and record that number in box A.

    3. Amps X Volts = Watts

  3. Identify the device with the highest starting watt requirement and record that number in box B.

    4. "Toasters, lamps, and coffee makers are resistive; their total load can be calculated at amps x volts = watts needed."

  4. Add the total running watts (A) and the highest starting watt requirement (B) to determine the total starting watts (C)

    5. "Saws, compressors and drills are reactive; their starting load should be calculated at 3 x (amps x volts) = watts needed."
Electrical DeviceRunning WattsStarting Watts
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Total Running Watts (A)
 

Maximum Peak Watts (B)
 

Total Peak Watts (C)