How to Choose the Right Size Generator

On February 25, 2026 By newsroom Topic: Appliance Buyers Guide

A generator can save you from the inconvenience—or disaster—of a power outage. Here's a guide to help you select the right size and type based on your needs.

Key Factors to Consider

1. Appliance Wattage

Add up the wattage of appliances you need to power (fridge, AC, sump pump).
Account for surge wattage, the extra power needed when some appliances, like refrigerators, start up.

2. Frequency of Power Outages

Frequent/Prolonged Outages: Consider a standby generator or large inverter/portable models.
Occasional Outages: Large inverter or portable generators may suffice.
Rare Outages: Opt for a midsized or small inverter for essentials.

3. Fuel Type

Gasoline: Most common but requires storage and stabilization.
Propane/Natural Gas: Available for home standby generators; eliminates refueling.

4. Budget

Small inverter generators: $450–$1,600
Midsized inverters: $500–$2,400
Large portables: $950–$2,000
Large inverters: $1,300–$7,000
Home standby: $2,000–$6,000+ (installation extra)

Generator Types and Recommendations

1. Small Inverter Generators

Wattage: Up to ~2,000 watts
Ideal For: Running a fridge, phone chargers, lamps, or TVs.
Pros: Lightweight, quiet, portable, and easy to store.
Cons: Limited capacity; can’t connect to breaker panels.

2. Midsized Inverter Generators

Wattage: 2,000–3,500 watts
Ideal For: Fridge, window AC, lights, and small appliances.
Pros: Efficient, quiet, and portable.
Cons: Limited to 110-volt items; transfer switch options are less practical.

3. Large Portable Generators

Wattage: Up to 8,500 watts
Ideal For: Entire home with essential hardwired equipment like well pumps.
Pros: Affordable and versatile.
Cons: Noisy, bulky, and requires gasoline; heavy at ~250 lbs.

4. Large Inverter Generators

Wattage: 5,000–7,500 watts
Ideal For: Fridge, lights, furnace, and small AC units.
Pros: Quiet, fuel-efficient, and provides clean power for electronics.
Cons: Expensive; limited to gasoline use.

5. Home Standby Generators

Wattage: Up to 20,000 watts
Ideal For: Entire home during long outages.
Pros: Permanent installation, automatic activation, runs on natural gas or propane.
Cons: High upfront and installation costs; immovable in flooding scenarios.

Generator Safety Tips

CO Safety Technology: Ensure your portable generator has an automatic shutoff sensor for carbon monoxide (CO).

Safe Placement: Operate at least 20 feet from your home with the exhaust directed away.

Transfer Switch: For larger generators, have a transfer switch professionally installed to connect safely to your home’s circuit.

Protection: Use an open-sided tent for portables in rain or snow.

Pro Tips for Selection

Interactive Tools: Use wattage calculators to estimate power needs.
Backup Power Plans: Evaluate your home's must-haves during outages, like heating, cooling, and medical devices.
Installation Costs: Factor in professional installation for standby generators and transfer switches.

With the right generator, you’ll stay powered up and prepared, no matter the storm.