Starting vs. Running Watts
Don't let motor surges trip your breaker. Accurately calculate the true generator size needed by accounting for the massive startup power of inductive loads.
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Your Load List
| Item | Running | Starting | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Add items to calculate sizing. | |||
Required Generator Size
Calculation Logic: Total Running Watts + Highest Single Additional Surge. This assumes all items run at once, but only the largest motor starts while others are running.
Surge Visualizer
Understanding Starting vs. Running Watts
Running Watts
Also known as Rated Watts. This is the continuous power an appliance needs to keep operating.
- Light Bulbs
- Heaters / Toasters (Resistive)
- Electronics
Starting Watts
Also known as Surge Watts. The extra power required for 1-3 seconds to start an electric motor.
- Refrigerators / Freezers
- Air Conditioners
- Sump Pumps / Well Pumps
Why don't we add all starting watts together?
It is statistically highly unlikely that your fridge, AC, and well pump will all cycle on at the exact same split-second. The standard sizing practice is to take the Total Running Watts of all appliances and add the single highest starting surge.
Recommended Gear for Surge Management
Tools to help you measure, manage, and reduce startup loads.
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