What size generator do I need to run a refrigerator?

What size generator do I need to run a refrigerator?

17th Jul 2022

Even during a power outage, we need to keep essential appliances like a refrigerator and freezer running. So the key question is What size generator do I need to run a refrigerator and freezer?

So we have made this simple guide that helps you find the right size generator for your refrigerator and freezer.

Refrigerators and freezers use between 100 and 800 amps per hour. A generator that can deliver at least 2000 starting watts will be sufficient to run both the refrigerator and the freezer without any problems.

But for the most accurate result, the first thing you need to do is figure out how much electricity your refrigerator and freezer are using. This will help determine what size generator would be best for you!

To figure out how much running wattage does your refrigerator and freezer have just check the specification label. It’s usually located on the back of the fridge; you will have to move it a bit to check.

How to figure out how much start-up wattage does your fridge require?

Very few fridges have the start-up watts specified on the label. In most cases, you will have to make a ‘best guess’ of how much initial power they need.

The rule of thumb for refrigerator generator sizing is to multiply the running watts by 3 to get starting watts.

The key takeaway here is that there really isn’t such a thing as “one size fits all” when it comes to generators (or anything in life, for that matter). You want to make sure you’re getting the right size and features. Otherwise, you might end up frustrated with your generator and spend more money than necessary.

In more than 95% of cases, you’re looking at 1,000W or a 3,000W generator.

Of course, the best thing is to buy is a inverter generator for home back up. These type of generators are quiet, reliable and produce a pure sine wave, so there safe to run electronic appliances and devices they we use in the home everyday.

To view our range ofsuitable inverter generators, visit here :- https://generatorstore.com.au/top-categories/inverter-generators/

Questions To Ask Before Getting A Generator For Your Refrigerator And Freezer

  1. Is your refrigerator older or newer? Earlier models use more energy than newer ones.
  2. Do you have a smaller or larger fridge? Bigger models take up more power and need bigger generators to run them.
  3. Is your freezer on the top of the fridge? This uses way less electricity and doesn’t require as big of a generator.
  4. Does it have a built-in freezer? This one also uses way less power.
  5. Does it have an ice maker & dispenser? If so, you’ll need a generator that can produce more power.
  6. Do you use your fridge as an additional freezer? You may want to invest in a bigger generator.
  7. How often do you use your fridge? If it’s on for more than 12 hours at a time, you’ll need a generator with a big fuel tank for long run time.
  8. How much power is your refrigerator running on? The more watts of electricity it uses, the larger a generator you’ll need to run it.
  9. How many days do you usually go without power? If your generator is too small, or doesn’t run long enough the fridge will eventually get warm and stop working.
  10. How much money would you like to spend on a generator? A larger, more expensive unit will last longer and cost less in the long run.
  11. Do you have an outdoor outlet for your generator? If not, use aextension lead that will allow you to plug it in outside.
  12. Are you going to run other appliances at the same time? A larger generator will be able to power more at once.
  13. Do you live in an area with a lot of elevation? A smaller, portable unit might not work in this scenario.
  14. How big is the total capacity of your fridge? The more cubic feet it has, the bigger generator you’ll need.
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