Generator Sizing Guide for Home Backup Power

Wattage Requirements: How Much Power Do You Need?

Before purchasing a backup power source, it’s essential to calculate how much power your home consumes during an outage. First, list the critical appliances you want to power during a blackout, such as refrigerators, HVAC systems, lights, and other essential devices. Each appliance has a specific wattage requirement that can help you determine the total wattage your generator will need to provide.

For example, a refrigerator might need 800-1,200 watts, while a central air conditioning unit could require up to 5,000 watts. Once you have a list of these wattages, add them up to estimate your total wattage needs.

At Next Phase Electric, we offer consultations to help you assess your power requirements so you can choose the most appropriately sized generator for your home.

Types of Generators: Choosing the Right System for Your Needs

Several types of generators are on the market, each with its advantages. The two most common types for homeowners are portable and standby systems.

Portable Generators: These are smaller, more affordable units that can be moved around as needed. Portable systems can typically power a few critical appliances but may not be sufficient for larger homes or extensive needs. They are ideal for temporary use during short outages but require manual setup and fueling.
Standby Generators: These are permanently installed systems that automatically activate during a power outage. Standby generators are larger and can power an entire home, making them a better option for homeowners who want uninterrupted power across all devices. While these systems are more expensive, they offer the most convenience and reliability during extended blackouts.

When deciding how to choose a home backup, consider the pros and cons of each type and how much of your home you want to keep powered during an outage. Work with an expert who provides multiple backups, ensuring a seamless installation process to meet your specific needs.

Generator Sizes: Matching Your Home’s Power Demand

Choosing the correct size generator is critical to ensure it can handle your home’s power load without overloading or underperforming. Sizes are typically measured in kilowatts (kW) and range from small 5 kW units for essential appliances to 20 kW or more for larger homes that need to power multiple systems simultaneously.

Here’s a general guide to help you understand what size and amount of power might suit your home:

Small Homes (Up to 2,000 sq. ft.): For smaller homes that need to power only essential devices like refrigerators, lighting, and a few outlets, a generator between 5-7 kW should suffice.
Medium Homes (2,000-3,500 sq. ft.): A medium-sized home with moderate power needs, including air conditioning, might require a power source between 8 kW and 12 kW.
Large Homes (3,500+ sq. ft.): For larger homes that want to maintain full power, including HVAC systems, kitchen appliances, and electronics, a standby generator of 15-20 kW or more would be ideal.

Determining the right home standby generator size can be complicated, but Next Phase Electric takes the guesswork out of the process. Our team can accurately size the perfect house generator based on your energy consumption and desired coverage.

Explore Next Phase Electric’s home power backup services to see how we can ensure the ideal power source is installed in your home.

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Fuel Type: What’s Best for Your Generator?

Generators have power supplied by different fuel types, including gasoline, propane, and natural gas. Each fuel type has its pros and cons, and choosing the right one depends on availability, cost, and your home’s specific setup.

Gasoline: Portable systems often run on gasoline. While it’s readily available, gasoline is less efficient and can be difficult to store for long periods. Additionally, gasoline-powered generators may require more frequent refueling during extended outages.
Propane: Propane is commonly used for both portable and standby generators. It burns cleaner than gasoline and can be stored for extended periods. However, propane systems may require more maintenance over time.
Natural Gas: Standby generators are frequently connected to your home’s natural gas supply, which provides an uninterrupted fuel source. This is ideal for long-term outages, as you won’t need to worry about refueling. Natural gas is also more environmentally friendly and cost-effective.

The type of fuel a generator uses is an essential factor in selecting one for your home. Next Phase Electric can guide you through this decision, ensuring you choose the best fuel type for your home and region.

Installation and Permits: Making the Process Smooth and Efficient

Installing a generator is more than just plugging it in—proper setup is essential for safety and functionality. Standby solutions require installation by a licensed electrician, including wiring to your home’s electrical system and connecting it to the fuel supply. Depending on your area, you may also need permits to ensure your generator installation complies with local codes.

At Next Phase Electric, we handle the entire installation process from start to finish, including obtaining necessary permits and ensuring your generator is safely and correctly installed.

What To Know About Solar Generators

Solar generators use solar panels to capture sunlight and store energy in a battery for later use. They are eco-friendly, quiet, and require no fuel, making them ideal for backup power in homes. However, they are generally more suited for powering small to medium-sized devices, and their capacity depends on the battery size. Solar generators are an excellent option for California homeowners due to the state’s abundant sunlight and increasing focus on sustainable, renewable energy solutions. They’re perfect for reducing reliance on fuel-powered generators.

Key Takeaways

Choosing the right generator for your home depends on several key factors, including wattage requirements, home size, and the fuel type best suited for your needs. Calculating your power usage during an outage is critical to selecting a generator that can handle your essential devices without overloading sensitive electronics. Homeowners should also weigh the pros and cons of portable versus standby generators, as well as consider maintenance and fuel availability.

For California homeowners, solar generators offer a quieter, eco-friendly option, but they may not be ideal for powering larger homes or high-energy appliances. To make the best decision on generator sizes, it’s recommended to consult professionals like Next Phase Electric, who can assess your power needs and help you choose a solution that fits your home, budget, and sustainability goals.

Find the Perfect Size Generator for Your Home With Next Phase Electric

At Next Phase Electric, we have the expertise and experience to guide homeowners in selecting the best generator solution for their family, budget, and property. Whether you’re considering solar or traditional systems, our team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or request a free estimate.

How To Choose a Generator for Home Use in California

Wattage Requirements: How Much Power Do You Need?

Types of Generators: Choosing the Right System for Your Needs

Generator Sizes: Matching Your Home’s Power Demand

Fuel Type: What’s Best for Your Generator?

Installation and Permits: Making the Process Smooth and Efficient

What To Know About Solar Generators

Key Takeaways

Find the Perfect Size Generator for Your Home With Next Phase Electric

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