How to decide what kind of generator to install for your home: How much power do you need

How much Power do you need in a Generator?

Obviously, it depends on what you plan on powering. A low power generator (1-5kW) will work fine for powering extension cords to a small appliance and for some lights and emergency equipment like phones, radio, etc. Medium power (5kW - 10kW) can power most of the appliances in a small house or an emergency circuit in a large house. High power (10kW - 20kW) can power a small house or dedicated circuits in a large home.

It all comes down to what you want to power - some emergency equipment vs entire house and what your budget is. If your budget is $1,000, you will be buying a portable low to medium power generator and will run extension cables to the important appliances and devices in your house.

If you are willing to spend more $, you can have a larger portable or installed generator and run dedicated circuits on a sub-panel with an auto transfer switch and remote start that will automatically start the generator when the power fails.

Keep in mind that gasoline generators consume a lot of fuel if they are run continuously. The more powerful the generator, the more fuel you will need. A small generator may use 10 gallons of gasoline per day. A medium power unit can use 20-30 gallons per day. There are sometimes fuel shortages during black-outs, making it difficult to keep the generator running.

Here is an example of a Low Power gasoline generator: It is rated for 4.4kW. It can run a small appliance and other equipment. It is connected with extension cords. It has an electric start which means you don't have to pull a cord to start it.


 Medium Power gasoline generator: This generator is rated for 7.5kW. It can run appliances in addition to other items. It will not run an entire house. It is used with heavy duty extension cords. Also has an electric start.


High Power natural gas generator: This generator is rated for 17kW. It is meant to run most or all of your home and comes with an automatic transfer switch so that it turns on automatically in an emergency. It runs on natural gas or propane so you will not have to buy gasoline and constantly fill it during a power outage.
This type of generator needs to be professionally installed. Installation can cost $5,000.