KNOW YOUR POWER PRIORITIES
- Generators are selected by power output, as measured in watts. The amount of power they deliver determines how many lights and appliances you can run at once. To answer the question of which size generator you need is simply to add up the wattage of everything you want to power during an outage. Start by making a list of what you don’t want to go without while the power’s down, then add up their watts to get you in the right ballpark.
To download a wattage calculation list, please go to the following web link:
https://www.homelite.com/pdf/wattage_worksheet.pdf
SAFETY MEASURES WHEN USING A PORTABLE GENERATOR
Portable generators can quickly produce deadly levels of carbon monoxide, therefore it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s and general safety precautions
- Read the manufacturer’s instructions before installing and using your generator.
- Always run a portable generator at least 20 feet away from your home, including equipment such as a central
AC condenser or window AC, and direct the exhaust away from your home or any other structure, including
the neighbors’ home. - Never run a generator in an enclosed space or indoor.
- Generator is a potential source of electric shock. Do not expose to moisture, rain, or snow. Do not operate with
wet hands or feet. - Before refueling, turn off a gas-powered generator and let it cool.
- Stabilizer must be added to your fuel for prolonged storage.
- If you must use an extension cord, it should be a heavy-duty one for outdoor use, rated (in watts or amps) at
least equal to the sum of the connected appliance loads. - Do not connect to a building’s electrical system unless the generator and transfer switch have been properly
installed and the electrical output has been verified by a qualified electrician.
Frequently Asked Questions
That depends on how many items you need to run at once and what amps they pull.
In a typical home, essential items will average 5000 – 7500 watts of power to run.
Running, or rated watts are the continuous watts needed to keep items running. Starting watts are extra watts needed for two to three seconds to start motor-driven products like a refrigerator or circular saw, this is the maximum wattage the generator can produce.
Unlike running watts, starting watts are only needed during the first few seconds of operation. In most cases, only one item will start or cycle at the same time, therefore this is the most accurate estimate.
Running Watts = Amps (A) x Voltage (V); Running amperage and Voltage can usually be found on the appliances data plate.
The starting amps will be noted on the compressor itself by referring to the Locked Rotor Amp (LRA) value. Starting Watts = LRA Amps (A) x Voltage (V).
Only motor-driven devices will require additional watts.
If the running watts are not on the tool or appliance, you may estimate using the following equation: WATTS=VOLTS x AMPS. Only motor driven items will require starting watts. The starting watts required may be estimated at 1-2x the running/rated watts.
This depends on the engine size and gas tank size. Check your Owner's Manual for run time.furn
