Which Generator Is Right For You?
To choose the right generator, first, decide how many circuits or rooms you should protect. The more circuits, the larger the generator you need.
The automatic transfer switch in pre-packaged, air-cooled systems (8-17 kW) allows you to match the system’s load center circuits to the amperage in your home’s main distribution panel (Fig. A). Simply determine which circuits to protect during an outage and choose a generator. There is no need to add up wattages, since you’ll never use all appliances on every circuit at the same time.
To get accurate sizing requirements for a liquid-cooled generator, have a licensed electrician apply an amp meter to the circuits and appliances slated for backup power. A true load calculation can then be made to assure the proper generator is specified.
Check your air conditioner’s starting requirements. Starting requirements for older and/or less efficient equipment may exceed recommended generator capability. Additionally, for any electrical equipment or appliances, always check the manufacturer’s power requirements. This will help to ensure standby power accommodations for items that cycle during operation.
Circuits | (8) | (10) | (10) | (12) | (16) | ||
Air Cooled Generator | 7 kW | 8 kW | 11 kW | 16 kW | 22 kW | Circuits | 20 kW |
5-Ton Central Air1 | (50 Amp / 240V)2 | 200 Amp panel coverage (all circuits) | |||||
4-Ton Central Air1 | (40 Amp / 240V)2 | ||||||
3-Ton Central Air1 | • | (30 Amp / 240V)2 | |||||
Well Pump or Water Heater | (20 Amp / 240V)2 | ||||||
Family Room | (20 Amp / 120V) | ||||||
Master Bedroom | (20 Amp / 120V) | ||||||
Home Office | (20 Amp / 120V) | ||||||
Media Room | (20 Amp / 120V) | ||||||
Garage | (20 Amp / 120V) | ||||||
Kitchen (#1)3 | (20 Amp / 120V) | ||||||
Kitchen (#2)3 | (15 Amp / 120V) | ||||||
Bathroom | (15 Amp / 120V) | ||||||
Furnace | (15 Amp / 120V) | ||||||
Sump Pump | (15 Amp / 120V) | ||||||
Bedroom (#2) | (15 Amp / 120V) | ||||||
Bedroom (#3) | (15 Amp / 120V) | ||||||
Bathroom (#2) | (15 Amp / 120V) |
Note: Rooms and appliances indicated here are for examples only. You may choose others that better reflect your needs. Because of the cycling nature of some appliances such as refrigerators and furnaces, it may not be possible for all appliances to run simultaneously.
Air Cooled Home Standby Models
Your home is your biggest asset and it holds most of your valuables. Stay comfortable and keep your home and belongings safe during power outages. Dont worry about your parents, children and pets when the POWER goes out again. You dont have to be home, they start automatically.