8. POWER/WATTAGE INFORMATION
If an electric motor fails to start or reach running speed, turn off
the appliance or tool immediately to avoid equipment damage.
Always check the requirements of the tool/appliance and compare
to the rated output of the generator.
8.1.
Some appliances have a surge of energy when starting. This means that the amount of
electrical power needed to start the appliance may exceed the amount needed to maintain
its use.
8.2.
Electrical appliances and tools normally come with a label indicating voltage, frequency,
amperage (amps) and electrical power needed to run the appliance or tool.
8.3.
Check with your nearest dealer or service provider with questions regarding power surge of
certain appliances or power tools.
8.4.
Electrical loads such as incandescent lamps and hot plates require the same wattage to
start as is needed to maintain use.
8.5.
Loads such as fluorescent lamps require 1.2 to 2 times the indicated wattage during start-
up.
8.6.
Loads for mercury lamps require 2 to 3 times the indicated wattage during start-up.
8.7.
Electrical motors require large starting currents. Power requirements depend on the type
of motor and its use. Once enough power is available to start the motor, the appliance will
require only 30% to 50% of the wattage to continue running.
8.8.
Most electrical tools require 1.2 to 3 times their wattage for running under load during use.
For example, a 5000-watt generator can power an 1800 to 4000 watt electrical tool.
8.9.
Loads such as submersible pumps and air compressors require a very large force to start.
They need 3 to 5 times the normal running wattage in order to start. For example, a 5000-
watt generator would only be able to drive a 1000 to 7000 watt pump.
8.10.
To determine the total wattage required to run a particular electrical appliance or
tool, multiply the voltage figure of the appliance/tool by the amperage (amps) figure of it.
The voltage and amperage (amps) information can be found on a nameplate which is
normally attached to electrical appliances and tools.
E.g. 230 Volts, 5 Amps = 230 x 5 = 1150 Watts.
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