3.2 What can I power?
Due to it's superior surge capability the HomeGrid™ solar generator can
easily power multiple home appliances simultaneously including
refrigerators, freezers, microwave ovens, and cooking appliances. It's pure
sine wave power output will safely run power tools, electronics, and
medical equipment such as CPAP machines.
The amount of power it can run, however, will vary depending on the
appliance.
When deciding on what appliances to power with your HomeGrid™ solar
generator, you will need to calculate the continuous and peak loads of each
appliance you want to run simultaneously to determine if the total amount
of watts is within the capacity of the generator.
3.3 Determining maximum appliance wattage
When a motorized appliance motor starts, it requires an initial surge of
power. This surge of power is called the "starting load" or "peak load".
Once started, the appliance requires less power to
continue to operate. This is known as the "continuous load".
Appliance power is rated in watts. This information is usually stamped or
printed on most appliances and equipment. In some cases, a tool will be
rated in amperes. To convert from amps to watts, multiply: AMPS X 115
(AC voltage) = WATTS. This formula yields an approximation of the
continuous wattage load of the appliance. The start up load of an appliance
is a major factor of whether this generator can power it. Start-up load is
momentary. With many devices, it is approximately twice the continuous
load. However, with some devices start-up load can be as high as eight
times the continuous load. To determine if an appliance or tool will
operate with this generator, run a test. The HomeGrid™ solar generator is
designed to automatically shut down in the event of an output overload.
