Generator Size Checks
Will a 5000 watt generator run refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker?
Use the default WattSizer rule: add running watts, then model the largest startup load while the other selected loads are already running.
A 5,000 W unit clears this estimate, subject to nameplate checks.
The peak-starting assumption is driven by Refrigerator. With the default 20% buffer, WattSizer rounds up to the next 100 watts.
| Appliance | Running | Starting | Source note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 180 W | 1,200 W | DOE appliance-use guidance says sample wattages vary by age and features; default is a conservative planning value for a modern full-size refrigerator. |
| 1,000 W microwave | 1,500 W | 1,500 W | Microwave input watts exceed cooking watts; default uses common nameplate input power. |
| Coffee maker | 1,000 W | 1,000 W | DOE appliance-use guidance plus typical drip coffee maker nameplates; resistive loads have little extra surge. |
Try the load yourself
Edit this scenario
| Load | Running watts | Starting watts |
|---|---|---|
Power station estimate
For battery units, the selected running load needs about 0 Wh for 8 hours or 0 Wh for 12 hours before weather, battery age, and inverter losses.
Safety check
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.
Generator or power station?
Fuel generators are useful for motor loads and longer outages, while battery power stations are better for indoor-safe electronics and medical-device planning. For battery sizing, this selected running load is about 25,750 Wh for 8 hours with the same buffer.
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.