Choosing the Right Size Generator for Your Home

May 04, 2023

Generators are Plan B’s for when there is a power outage and you need electricity. So, it is important to consider all the factors when purchasing or replacing a generator in your home.

One of the most crucial decisions you will have to make is determining what size of generator would be ideal for your home and situation.

This article will help you figure out how to choose the right size of generator that will work for your family.

Sizes of Generators

There are five different sizes of generators, they include:

1. Recreational Inverter
   Power – 2,000 watts
   Weight – ~60 pounds
   Cost – $400 to $1,000

This is the smallest, lightest, easiest, and most portable generator type. It is quiet, does not require installation, and is user-friendly. It is a brilliant choice if you’re rarely at home or you seldom experience a power outage. This generator can power lights, a small refrigerator, and small electronics.

2. Mid-Sized Inverter
   Power – 3,500 watts
   Weight – 150 Pounds
   Cost – $1,000 to $1,700

It is also quiet and portable, but can power significantly more electronics.

3. Portable Generator
   Power – 7,500 watts
   Weight – 300 pounds
   Cost – $1,000 to $2,800

This provides enough power for an average household and may cost a lot to install.

4. Large Inverter
   Power – 7,500 watts
   Weight – ~ 350 pounds
   Cost – $1,400 to $4,000

This size also provides enough energy, and can even power appliances like air conditioners, refrigerators, etc. It is also best for frequent/prolonged power outages.

5. Home Standby
   Power – 20,000 watts
   Weight – Btw 350 and 600 pounds
   Cost – $2,000 to $6,000

This is the largest generator size, permanently installed, provides steady power, can power every appliance, but its installation is typically expensive. However, if you have frequent/prolonged power outages, or a large home, this is ideal.

How to Determine Ideal Size

Power Outage Frequency

If you rarely experience a power outage and the power outage lasts for a brief time, then you should go for a smaller generator size. For more prolonged or frequent power outages, consider the larger generator sizes.

Appliances Owned

If you have “heavy duty” appliances, avoid going for a small generator. It may ruin your appliances, the generator, or even your home electrical system. However, if you have little or do not need to power so much, then a smaller generator is fine.

Cost

This is not the best way to determine what size of generator you should buy, but depending on what your budget looks like, you could get one that goes with your budget, but you will have to be careful with your appliances.

Wattage

This is the best way to determine what size of generator is best for your home. Wattage is how much power/electricity each appliance in your home takes, from the light bulbs to the refrigerator, to the air conditioner, and so on. Add up everything, and your final figure determines what generator will conveniently power the whole thing.

Yes! will help carry out the wattage calculations for you, help you determine what generator is best, and finally carry out your generator installation for you. Give us a call at 844-216-9300 now to get started!