Home Generator Size Calculator
Calculate the required generator size for your home
About this calculator
The Home Generator Size Calculator helps homeowners determine the appropriate generator capacity needed to power their home during outages. By analyzing your essential appliances, HVAC systems, and electrical loads, this tool calculates the minimum wattage required to keep your home running smoothly. Proper generator sizing ensures you have adequate backup power without overspending on unnecessary capacity, while avoiding the frustration of an undersized unit that can't handle your electrical needs.
How to use
Enter your home's square footage, select your essential appliances and systems you want powered during outages, and specify your heating/cooling type. The calculator will analyze your electrical load requirements and recommend the appropriate generator size in kilowatts, helping you choose between standby and portable generator options.
Frequently asked questions
What size generator do I need for a 2000 sq ft house?
A 2000 sq ft home typically needs a 15-20kW generator for essential systems, or 20-25kW for whole-house backup power including air conditioning.
Should I size my generator for all appliances?
Consider essential items like refrigeration, heating/cooling, lights, and medical equipment. Non-essential appliances can be temporarily disconnected to reduce generator size requirements.
What's the difference between starting and running watts?
Starting watts are the initial power surge needed to start motors and compressors. Running watts are the continuous power required during normal operation.