How to calculate the generator power?

2023-06-07

Calculating the power of the generator is important to determine what power generator is right for you. This is very simple and will save you some trouble in the future.

Watts = Volts x Amps

Generators can only put out a finite amount of power. Companies use watts to rate a generator's output. The wattage is calculated by multiplying the voltage by the electrical device's load capacity in amperage (Watts = Volts x Amps). For example, a generator may be listed as 2,000 watts delivering 200 volts 10 Amps.

Amps = Watts / Volts

Now you can find the amperage that it can output at 200 volts by dividing the watts by the volts (Amps = Watts / Volts). So a 2,000 watt generator delivering 200 volts can output 10 amps.

Dual voltage

Some generators are dual voltage and also output 240 volts. Find the amps available at the higher voltage. Now the 2,000 watt generator is delivering approximately 8.3 amps at 240 volts. Just to note, some generators are not be able to deliver 120V and 240V at the same time, so need to check the specs.

Do you need a more powerful generator?

Whether it's something around the house or your camping equipment - the total load of the equipment you're powering cannot exceed the output of the generator. Look at the electrical specification label or owner's manual for the device you want to power with a portable generator. Then add up the power to figure out what kind of portable generator you need. Generators are also usually listed with constant/continuous load specifications. This is the amount of electricity the generator can safely output over a period of time. Some devices also require a larger starting wattage than their operating wattage. For example, a washing machine may require 750W when running, but 2,300W when starting up. You may want to distinguish between what will run continuously and the maximum power you will need.

The power of electrical appliances used in the home:

Air Conditioner ------------ 2,000 - 3,000W

Water Pump ------------- 1,000 - 3,000W

Induction cooker-----------1900 -2200W

Electric Heater ------------ 1,000 - 2,000W

Toaster ----------------- 1,100 - 1,700W

Hair Dryer ----------------- 800 - 1,500W

Washing machine ---------200-1,200W

Electric cooker -------------- 500-1,000 W

Television ---------------- 100 - 350W

Desktop computer---------230 -300w

Electric refrigerator------90-200W