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Which Generator: Help in choosing which generator is suitable

 

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Which Generator?

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See FAQ- Find More Answers Here

Buying the right generator can seem like a formidable task. But in just a few easy steps you can effectively and confidently decided and choose which generator is right for you.

  1. Identify the tools and appliances you wish to operate with your generator.

  2. Determine the required power for each item ( see appliance data plate i.e.: watts of appliance).

  3. Add the required Watts of each item that will be running simultaneously. Also allow for motor starting of appliance * see chart

  4. Choose the generator that has rated Watts that meet or exceed this total power.

Motor Starting is an important consideration when buying a generator. Keep in mind that induction type motors, like those that run sump pumps, refrigerators and compressors , typically require 2 to 3 times their listed running watts to start.

Opposite is a chart you can use to determine how many Watts you will need to start up motors of various sizes and types.

Please note that power tools using a universal commutator do not require any additional start up power.

The table opposite lists tools and appliances you may want to use with your generator.

With each tool or appliance is listed the approximate running watts for each.

NOTE:
Always consult the data plate on the tool or appliance for accurate electrical information. The outlet configuration of some units may require modification to achieve maximum rated power.

EQUIVALENT MAX kVA: Some Manufacturers give ratings in kVA by adding 25% to the power rating. This figure is for comparison with these values.

 

 

Application

Motor Size H/P

Running Watts

Watts Req. To Start Motor

1/8

275

850

1/6

275

850

1/4

400

1,050

1/3

450

1,350

1/2

600

1,800

3/4

850

2,600

1

1,100

3,300

2

2,200

6,600

Machines & Power required to run

Fluorescent Lamp

60

5" Angle Grinder

750

Light Bulb

100

Hair Dryer

1,000

Video

100

Lawnmower 10" Hover

1,000

Palm Sander

175

5" Circular Saw

1,000

Fridge*

200

Router

1,000

Slow Cooker

200

Belt Sander

1,020

Radio/Hi Fi

200

Vacuum Cleaner

1,100

Colour TV

250

Coffee Maker

1,200

Central Heating Pump

300

Steam Iron

1,250

VDU

300

Cement Mixer *

1,320

Strimmer 10"

350

Chain Saw 10"-16"

1,500

Printer

350

600W Microwave

1,500

Jig Saw

400

Portable Heater

1,500

Bench Grinder

400

Hot Air Gun

1,500

Computer

400

PhotoCopier

1,600

13mm Drill

450

8" floor sander

2,000

Orbital Sander

450

Compressor *

2,200

Hedge Trimmer

500

12" Angle Grinder

2,500

Flood Lamp

500

Hammer Drill

2,500

4" Angle Grinder

550

Kettle

2,500

1/3 HP Airless Sprayer

600

Fan Heater

3,000

Telefax

600

Hammer/Breaker

3,000

13mm Hammer Drill

600

1 HP Pressure Washer

3,500

Deep Freeze

700

Arc Welder- 130A

3,500

Planer

700

Washing Machine

4,000

* See Motor Starting