Kitchen
Refrigerator running watts and starting watts
Use these values as a planning range only. The conservative default for refrigerator is 180 W running and 1,200 W starting.
| Load type | Low | Default | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Running watts | 120 W | 180 W | 700 W |
| Starting watts | 600 W | 1,200 W | 2,200 W |
Source note
DOE appliance-use guidance says sample wattages vary by age and features; default is a conservative planning value for a modern full-size refrigerator.
Never operate a fuel-burning generator indoors, in a garage, on a porch, or near open windows. Use a listed transfer switch or interlock installed by a qualified electrician for home wiring, and verify actual device nameplates before buying equipment.
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