What Size Generator Do You Need to Run an Electric Fry Pan?
By the Generator Size Calculator Team · Updated · 5 min read
Quick answer: Honda lists an electric fry pan at 1,300 running and 1,300 starting watts. A 2,500-watt generator runs it, because a typical 2,000-watt inverter's 80% mark of about 1,280 watts falls just short. Add a refrigerator and lights and a 3,500-watt generator is the comfortable size. A fry pan is a cheaper way to cook in an outage than an electric range.
Fry pan watts
| Appliance | Running watts | Starting watts |
|---|---|---|
| Electric fry pan | 1,300 | 1,300 |
| Electric range, 6 inch element | 1,500 | 1,500 |
| Electric range, 8 inch element | 2,100 | 2,100 |
| Refrigerator or freezer | 700 | 2,200 |
These are Honda's typical figures. A heating element has no big start-up surge. The range rows are for comparison and are covered in what size generator runs an electric oven and range.
Which generator size to choose
| Setup | Running load | Generator |
|---|---|---|
| Fry pan alone | 1,300 W | 2,500 W |
| Fry pan, refrigerator and lights | 2,200 W | 3,500 W |
A 1,300-watt pan needs a generator rated for at least 1,625 watts at the 80% rule. A typical 2,000-watt inverter's 80% mark is about 1,280 watts, just under, so a 2,500-watt generator is the safer pick. See also what size generator runs kitchen appliances and a coffee maker and toaster.
Example: fry pan, fridge and lights
| Load | Running watts |
|---|---|
| Electric fry pan | 1,300 |
| Refrigerator | 700 |
| Lights and chargers | 200 |
| Running total | 2,200 |
The refrigerator's extra start-up load is 1,500 watts (2,200 minus 700), so the peak is about 3,700 watts. A 3,500-watt generator carries 2,200 running watts under its 80% mark (2,800 watts), and its approximate 4,375-watt starting capacity covers the peak. The lights and chargers are example values.
List every appliance you want on at once.
Tips for outage cooking
- Cook in one batch, then shut the generator off, to save fuel. See how long a generator runs on a tank of gas.
- Do not run two heating appliances at once unless the generator covers both.
- Plug in the fry pan last, after the fridge has started.
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. Never cook on a generator-powered pan inside a garage. See how far a generator should be from your house.
Frequently asked questions
How many watts does an electric fry pan use?
Honda lists an electric fry pan at about 1,300 watts, with the same starting watts.
Can a 2000-watt generator run an electric fry pan?
Just about, on paper. 1,300 watts is slightly above the roughly 1,280-watt 80% mark of a typical 2,000-watt inverter, so a 2,500-watt generator is safer.
What size generator runs a fry pan and a refrigerator?
About 3,500 watts with a few lights.
Does an electric fry pan have a starting surge?
No. A heating element draws about the same at start-up as when running.
Is a fry pan better than a range on a generator?
Usually, for one or two people. Honda lists it at 1,300 watts against 1,500 to 2,100 for a range element.
Related calculators
Sources: Running and starting watts from the Honda generator wattage guide (electric fry pan, electric range elements, refrigerator). Generator sizes apply the 80% running rule and an assumed starting capacity about 25% above the running rating. The lights and chargers in the example are assumed values.