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How To Pick The Right Generator Size So You're Prepared For A Power Outage
By EMILY MENDEZ
If your power often goes out due to storms, tornados, or hurricanes, and you want to buy a generator, you need to determine what size will suit both your needs and your budget.
If power outages only happen occasionally in your area, you probably need only a smaller generator, but if they’re frequent and last for days, then you’ll need a larger one.
First, calculate how much wattage you’ll need by adding the starting and running wattages stamped on each appliance, then adding the wattage to run all the appliances you’ll need.
A small inverter costs $450 to $1,600 and produces up to 2,000 watts, which powers a refrigerator, a laptop, 10 lights, a smartphone charger, a security system, and a television.
A midsize inverter costs $500 to $2,400 and produces up to 3,500 watts, which can power all of the previous plus an air conditioner, or a space heater, or a washing machine.
A large inverter costs $950 to $7,000 and produces up to 8,500 watts, which can power all of the preceding plus a sump pump and gas furnace, or a dishwasher, or an electric range.
A home standby is the largest inverter available and must be professionally installed. They cost up to $6,000 and produce up to 20,000 watts, which can power your whole house.