What Size Generator Do You Need to Run a Washer and Dryer?
By the Generator Size Calculator Team · Updated · 6 min read
Quick answer: Honda lists an automatic washer at 1,150 running and 2,300 starting watts, a gas dryer at 700 and 1,800 and an electric dryer at 5,750 running watts. A 2,500-watt generator runs a washer, a 2,000-watt unit a gas dryer, and an electric dryer needs about 7,500 watts or more. Run the washer and dryer one after the other and you can save a lot of generator.
Watts for each appliance
| Appliance | Running watts | Starting watts |
|---|---|---|
| Automatic clothes washer | 1,150 | 2,300 |
| Clothes dryer, gas | 700 | 1,800 |
| Clothes dryer, electric | 5,750 | 1,800 |
A gas dryer uses a small motor and an igniter, so its draw is modest, but it still needs a gas supply and a 120-volt outlet. An electric dryer heats with a large element, so it uses far more power and runs on 240 volts. Bob Vila gives a wider range for electric dryers (1,500 to 5,000 watts), which depends on the model and the heat setting, so check your label.
Generator size for each
| Appliance | Generator size alone |
|---|---|
| Washer (1,150 / 2,300 W) | 2,500 W |
| Gas dryer (700 / 1,800 W) | 2,000 W |
| Electric dryer (5,750 W) | 7,500 W, 240-volt outlet |
These are estimates using an 80% running-load rule and a typical starting capacity about 25% above the running rating. An electric dryer needs a 240-volt output, typically a 30-amp outlet, and a generator with the right receptacle. Our generator amps calculator converts the watts.
Running a washer and dryer together
| Combination | Running total | Generator needed at 80% |
|---|---|---|
| Washer and gas dryer | 1,850 W | About 2,300 W; use 3,000 W for the surge |
| Washer and electric dryer | 6,900 W | About 8,600 W; use 9,000 W |
| Electric dryer alone | 5,750 W | About 7,200 W; use 7,500 W |
The washer's start-up surge is about 1,150 watts above its running load, so a generator in the 3,000-watt range is comfortable for the washer and gas dryer. Electric dryer combinations quickly land in the 7,500 to 9,000-watt range.
Add your washer, dryer and everything else in one list.
Ways to use a smaller generator
- Run loads one at a time. Wash first, then dry. This is the biggest saving.
- Hang clothes or use a drying rack instead of the electric dryer during an outage.
- Use cold water. It keeps a water heater off the generator.
- Use the right cord and outlet. A dryer needs a 240-volt connection, not a household extension cord. Ask an electrician about a transfer switch, and read how to connect a generator to your house.
Run the generator outdoors, at least 20 feet from doors, windows and vents. Never in a garage or shed, even with the door open. See how far a generator should be from your house.
Frequently asked questions
How many watts does a washing machine use?
Honda lists an automatic washer at about 1,150 running and 2,300 starting watts.
Can a 3500-watt generator run a washer and dryer?
A washer and a gas dryer, yes. An electric dryer needs about 5,750 running watts, which is beyond a 3,500-watt generator.
What size generator runs an electric dryer?
About 7,500 watts with a 240-volt outlet. Check the label on your dryer for its exact rating.
Is a gas dryer easier on a generator?
Yes. A gas dryer is about 700 running and 1,800 starting watts, so a 2,000-watt generator can handle it.
Can I run a washer and dryer at the same time?
Only with a bigger generator. With an electric dryer you are looking at roughly 9,000 watts, so most people run them one at a time.
Related calculators
Sources: Appliance and tool running and starting watts from the Honda generator wattage guide (washer and dryers); electric dryer range from Bob Vila. Generator sizes apply the 80% running rule and an assumed starting capacity about 25% above the running rating.