What Size Generator Do You Need to Run a Grain Elevator and Conveyor?
By the Generator Size Calculator Team · Updated · 5 min read
Quick answer: Honda lists a 3/4 hp grain elevator at 1,400 running and 3,000 starting watts, a 1/2 hp portable conveyor at 1,000 and 2,400 and a grain cleaner at 650 and 1,000. That points to a 3,000-watt generator for the elevator, 2,500 watts for the conveyor and a 2,000-watt inverter for the cleaner. Run the elevator, cleaner and lights together on a 3,500-watt generator.
Grain handling watts
| Equipment | Running watts | Starting watts | Extra start-up surge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grain cleaner | 650 | 1,000 | 350 |
| Portable conveyor, 1/2 hp | 1,000 | 2,400 | 1,400 |
| Grain elevator, 3/4 hp | 1,400 | 3,000 | 1,600 |
These are Honda's typical figures from its farm equipment list. A loaded conveyor or elevator draws more than an empty one, so check your data plate.
Which generator size to choose
| Equipment | Generator |
|---|---|
| Grain cleaner (650 / 1,000 W) | 2,000 W inverter |
| Portable conveyor (1,000 / 2,400 W) | 2,500 W |
| Grain elevator (1,400 / 3,000 W) | 3,000 W |
| Elevator, cleaner and lights | 3,500 W |
Sizes keep the running load under 80% of the rating and assume a starting capacity about 25% above it. A 3,000-watt generator covers about 3,750 starting watts, enough for the elevator's 3,000. See starting vs running watts.
Example: elevator, cleaner and lights
| Load | Running watts |
|---|---|
| Grain elevator, 3/4 hp | 1,400 |
| Grain cleaner | 650 |
| Lights | 200 |
| Running total | 2,250 |
The largest extra start-up load is the elevator's 1,600 watts, so the peak is about 3,850 watts. That is just over a 3,000-watt generator's 3,750 starting watts, so a 3,500-watt unit is the right size: its 80% mark is 2,800 watts and its starting capacity about 4,375 watts. The lights are an example value.
List every motor you run together.
Tips for a clean start
- Start empty, then load the grain, since a full elevator is harder to turn.
- Start one motor at a time.
- Use heavy outdoor cords. See the extension cord calculator.
Run the generator outdoors, at least 20 feet from doors, windows and vents. Never in a garage, barn or shed, even with the door open. Keep it clear of grain dust and bins. See how far a generator should be from your house.
Frequently asked questions
How many watts does a grain elevator use?
Honda lists a 3/4 hp grain elevator at about 1,400 running and 3,000 starting watts.
How many watts does a portable conveyor use?
Honda lists a 1/2 hp portable conveyor at about 1,000 running and 2,400 starting watts.
Can a 3000-watt generator run a grain elevator?
On its own, yes. Add a cleaner and lights and a 3,500-watt generator is safer.
Can I run an elevator and a conveyor together?
Only with a much bigger generator. Their running watts total 2,400 and the surges add up if they start together.
Why is the starting surge so high?
Motors under load need a lot of current to get moving.
Related calculators
Sources: Running and starting watts from the Honda generator wattage guide (grain cleaner, portable conveyor, grain elevator from the farm equipment list). Generator sizes apply the 80% running rule and an assumed starting capacity about 25% above the running rating. The lights in the example are an assumed value.