What Size Generator Do I Need To Run Refrigerator And Freezer

If you live in an area that is prone to power outages, or if you want to have some backup power for emergencies, you might want to invest in a generator. A generator is a device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy, which can power your appliances and devices when the grid is down.

But what size generator do you need to run your refrigerator and freezer, and how can you calculate it? In this post, we will explain how to determine the size of the generator you need to run your refrigerator and freezer, and what factors to consider when choosing one.

The size of the generator you need to run your refrigerator and freezer depends on the wattage of your appliances, the starting and running watts, and the surge watts. A general rule of thumb is that you need a generator that can provide at least 1.5 times the total wattage of your appliances.

The Wattage Of Your Appliances

The wattage of your appliances is the amount of power they consume when they are operating. You can find the wattage of your appliances on the label or sticker on them, in the user manual or online, or by using a wattage meter or calculator.

The wattage of your appliances can vary depending on the model, age, and efficiency of them. However, here are some average wattages for common refrigerators and freezers:

• Refrigerator: 600 watts
• Freezer: 700 watts

The Starting And Running Watts

The starting and running watts are the two types of watts that your appliances need when they are powered by a generator. The starting watts are the initial burst of power that your appliances need when they start up, while the running watts are the continuous power that your appliances need when they are running.

The starting watts are usually higher than the running watts, as they include the extra power needed to overcome inertia and friction. The starting watts are also known as peak watts or surge watts.

The starting and running watts of your appliances can vary depending on the type, size, and load of them. However, here are some average starting and running watts for common refrigerators and freezers:

• Refrigerator: 1200 starting watts, 600 running watts
• Freezer: 1400 starting watts, 700 running watts

The Surge Watts

The surge watts are the maximum amount of power that your generator can provide for a short period of time, usually a few seconds or minutes. The surge watts are important for handling the starting watts of your appliances, as they prevent overloading or damaging your generator or your appliances.

The surge watts of your generator can vary depending on the type, size, and quality of it. However, most generators have a surge wattage that is about 20% to 25% higher than their rated wattage.

The Calculation

To calculate the size of the generator you need to run your refrigerator and freezer, you need to add up the starting and running watts of your appliances, and multiply them by 1.5. This will give you a rough estimate of the minimum wattage that your generator should provide.

For example, if you have a refrigerator that has 1200 starting watts and 600 running watts, and a freezer that has 1400 starting watts and 700 running watts, you can calculate the size of the generator you need as follows:

• Total starting watts = 1200 + 1400 = 2600 watts
• Total running watts = 600 + 700 = 1300 watts
• Total wattage = (2600 + 1300) x 1.5 = 5850 watts

Therefore, you need a generator that can provide at least 5850 watts of power to run your refrigerator and freezer.

The Factors To Consider When Choosing A Generator

When choosing a generator to run your refrigerator and freezer, you should consider the following factors:

• The type of fuel: You should choose a generator that uses a type of fuel that is available, affordable, and convenient for you. The most common types of fuel are gasoline, diesel, propane, or natural gas.
• The type of engine: You should choose a generator that has a type of engine that is reliable, efficient, and durable. The most common types of engines are two-stroke or four-stroke engines.
• The type of alternator: You should choose a generator that has a type of alternator that can produce clean and stable power for your appliances. The most common types of alternators are brushless or brushed alternators.
• The features and accessories: You should choose a generator that has features and accessories that can enhance its performance, safety, and convenience. Some of the features and accessories are:
  • Automatic voltage regulator (AVR): This is a device that regulates the voltage output of the generator and prevents fluctuations or spikes that can damage your appliances or the generator.
  • Electric start: This is a feature that allows you to start the generator with a push of a button or a key, instead of pulling a cord or a lever.
  • Low-oil shutdown: This is a feature that automatically shuts down the generator when the oil level is too low, to prevent overheating or damage to the engine.
  • Fuel gauge: This is a device that shows you the amount of fuel left in the tank, to help you plan your refueling or maintenance.
  • Circuit breaker: This is a device that protects the generator and your appliances from overloading or short-circuiting, by cutting off the power when the current exceeds a certain limit.
  • Transfer switch: This is a device that allows you to connect your generator to your home’s electrical system, and switch between the grid and the generator power sources. This can make your power supply more seamless and safe.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about choosing a generator to run your refrigerator and freezer:

• How long can I run my refrigerator and freezer on a generator?

The answer depends on the size and fuel capacity of your generator, as well as the load and efficiency of your appliances. However, a general rule of thumb is that you can run your refrigerator and freezer on a generator for about 8 to 10 hours on a full tank of fuel.

• Can I run other appliances on the same generator?

Yes, you can run other appliances on the same generator, as long as you do not exceed the wattage and amperage limits of your generator. You should also prioritize your appliances according to their importance and necessity, and turn off any unnecessary or low-priority appliances when not in use.

• What are the advantages and disadvantages of using a generator to run my refrigerator and freezer?

Some of the advantages of using a generator to run your refrigerator and freezer are:

• You can keep your food fresh and safe during power outages or emergencies.
• You can save money and reduce food waste by avoiding spoilage or loss of food.
• You can enjoy more comfort and convenience by having access to cold drinks, ice, or frozen meals.

Some of the disadvantages of using a generator to run your refrigerator and freezer are:

• You have to buy, maintain, and operate a generator, which can be costly, noisy, and polluting.
• You have to store and handle fuel, which can be dangerous, messy, or scarce.
• You have to deal with potential hazards or problems, such as electric shock, fire, carbon monoxide poisoning, or damage to your appliances or the generator.

Conclusion

The size of the generator you need to run your refrigerator and freezer depends on the wattage of your appliances, the starting and running watts, and the surge watts. A general rule of thumb is that you need a generator that can provide at least 1.5 times the total wattage of your appliances.

You should also consider the following factors when choosing a generator to run your refrigerator and freezer:

• The type of fuel
• The type of engine
• The type of alternator
• The features and accessories

We hope this post was helpful and informative for you. If you have any questions or comments about choosing a generator to run your refrigerator and freezer, feel free to leave them below. We would love to hear from you!