|
Buying
the right generator can seem like a formidable task. But in
just a few easy steps you can effectively and confidently
decided and choose which generator is right for you.
-
Identify
the tools and appliances you wish to operate with your
generator.
-
Determine
the required power for each item ( see appliance data
plate i.e.: watts of appliance).
-
Add
the required Watts of each item that will be running
simultaneously. Also allow for motor starting of appliance
* see chart
-
Choose
the generator that has rated Watts that meet or exceed
this total power.
Motor
Starting is an important consideration when buying a
generator. Keep in mind that induction type motors, like those
that run sump pumps, refrigerators and compressors , typically
require 2 to 3 times their listed running watts to start.
Opposite
is a chart you can use to determine how many Watts you will
need to start up motors of various sizes and types.
Please
note that power tools using a universal commutator do not
require any additional start up power.
The table
opposite lists tools and appliances you may want to use with
your generator.
With each
tool or appliance is listed the approximate running watts for
each.
NOTE: Always
consult the data plate on the tool or appliance for accurate
electrical information. The outlet configuration of some units
may require modification to achieve maximum rated power.
EQUIVALENT
MAX kVA: Some Manufacturers give ratings in kVA by
adding 25% to the power rating. This figure is for comparison
with these values.
Motor Hp/starting Table
|
Motor Size
H/P
|
Running
Watts
|
Watts Req.
To Start Motor
|
|
1/8
|
275
|
850
|
|
1/6
|
275
|
850
|
|
1/4
|
400
|
1,050
|
|
1/3
|
450
|
1,350
|
|
1/2
|
600
|
1,800
|
|
3/4
|
850
|
2,600
|
|
1
|
1,100
|
3,300
|
|
2
|
2,200
|
6,600
|
Machines & Power (watts)
required to run
|
Fluorescent
Lamp
|
60
|
5" Angle
Grinder
|
750 watts
|
|
Light Bulb
|
100
|
Hair Dryer
|
1,000
|
|
Video
|
100
|
Lawnmower
10" Hover
|
1,000
|
|
Palm Sander
|
175
|
5"
Circular Saw
|
1,000
|
|
Fridge*
|
200
|
Router
|
1,000
|
|
Slow Cooker
|
200
|
Belt Sander
|
1,020
|
|
Radio/Hi Fi
|
200
|
Vacuum Cleaner
|
1,100
|
|
Colour TV
|
250
|
Coffee Maker
|
1,200
|
|
Central
Heating Pump
|
300
|
Steam Iron
|
1,250
|
|
VDU
|
300
|
Cement Mixer *
|
1,320
|
|
Strimmer
10"
|
350
|
Chain Saw
10"-16"
|
1,500
|
|
Printer
|
350
|
600W Microwave
|
1,500
|
|
Jig Saw
|
400
|
Portable
Heater
|
1,500
|
|
Bench Grinder
|
400
|
Hot Air Gun
|
1,500
|
|
Computer
|
400
|
PhotoCopier
|
1,600
|
|
13mm Drill
|
450
|
8" floor
sander
|
2,000
|
|
Orbital Sander
|
450
|
Compressor *
|
2,200
|
|
Hedge Trimmer
|
500
|
12" Angle
Grinder
|
2,500
|
|
Flood Lamp
|
500
|
Hammer Drill
|
2,500
|
|
4" Angle
Grinder
|
550
|
Kettle
|
2,500
|
|
1/3 HP Airless
Sprayer
|
600
|
Fan Heater
|
3,000
|
|
Telefax
|
600
|
Hammer/Breaker
|
3,000
|
|
13mm Hammer
Drill
|
600
|
1 HP Pressure
Washer
|
3,500
|
|
Deep Freeze
|
700
|
Arc Welder-
130A
|
3,500
|
|
Planer
|
700
|
Washing
Machine
|
4,000
|
|
* See Motor
Starting
|
|
