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Backup Generator Sizing Calculator

What Size Generator Do I Need For My Home

By Ken D.  |  Product Expert

Getting the right-sized standby generator for your home is the single most important step before buying which is why we created this simple online calculator. One size doesn't always fit all, so be sure to size your new generator based on the following criteria:

  1. The Size of Your Home
  2. The Size of Your Air Conditioner
  3. How Much You Want to Power

Use the following generator size calculator to figure out what size generator you need.

View Tool
 
 

When you click on "View All Results," you'll see all the standby generator models that will meet your home's power needs in kilowatts (1 kilowatt= 1,000 watts).

 

You should never use more than 80% of your standby generator's maximum power output to prevent strain on the unit, so oversizing by roughly 20% is generally recommended.

 

Air conditioners are extremely important to consider because they use significant amounts of electricity, requiring about 3.517 kilowatts of power for each ton of capacity. If your generator is too small, it will either not be able to handle an air conditioner, or it'll handle an air conditioner and little else.

 

If you have any unique sizing questions that you don't feel our home generator sizing calculator answered, please call us at (866) 554-4328 to speak with an expert.

 

After finishing your backup generator sizing, you'll need to choose the right transfer switch.

  NEXT: Automatic Transfer Switch Buyer's Guide

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