13
Do Not Overload Generator Capacity
Follow these simple steps to calculate the running and starting watts necessary for your
purposes.
1. Select the electrical devices you plan on running at the same time.
2. Total the running watts of these items.
This is the amount of power you need to keep your items running.
3. Identify the highest starting wattage of all devices identified in step 1. Add this
number to the number calculated in step
2. Surge wattage is the extra burst of power needed to start some electric driven
equipment. Following the steps listed under “Power Management” will guarantee that
only one device will be starting at a time.
Power Management
Use the following formula to convert voltage and amperage to watts:
Volts x Amps = Watts
To prolong the life of your generator and attached devices, follow these steps to add
electrical load:
1. Start the generator with no electrical load attached.
2. Allow the engine to run for several minutes to stabilize.
3.Plug in and turn on the first item. It is best to attach the item with the largest load first.
4.Allow the engine to stabilize.
5.Plug in and turn on the next item.
6. Allow the engine to stabilize.
7. Repeat steps 5-6 for each additional item.
Note
: Never exceed the generator capacity when adding loads.
Wattage Reference Chart
Use the chart to determine approximate wattage requirements for your equipment.
Note
: Starting watts can exceed three times the running watts. The values in the following
table are approximate. Refer to your tool or appliance for actual wattage
consumption.
Item
Running Watts
Starting Watts
Essentials
Light Bulb 100W
100
Refrigerator/Freezer 1200
2400
Freezer 500
500
Sump Pump
600
1800
?
?
