Before deciding on a generator, it is important to consider ALL the appliance you may want to operate, how many will be used simultaneously and the TOTAL current consumption at any one time. Most appliances have a descriptive plate stating the current, usually in watts.

IMPORTANT various electrical applications have very different power requirements, so it is essential to understand each particular need. For example TV sets, cookers, kettles and filament lamps have resistive loads, this means that their start up and operating currents are virtually the same - and as stated on the manufactured descriptive plate.

Fluorescent lamps (on average) require approx. 1.5 times their stated wattage to start up. Hand tools with universal type motors need an extra 5% added to their stated power consumption. A universal type motor has brushes running on a commuter - the slotted segments on which the brushes run, normally visible through the ventilation slots.

Refrigeration, vacuum cleaners, freezers and central heating pumps usually employ induction type motors. These motors do NOT have a commuter (although there may be brushes) and may have an external capacitor. Their start up current can be as much as FIVE times the normal running requirement: check the descriptive plate carefully. Note that if (for example) a refrigerators stated power requirement is 200 watts, the power required to start the refrigeration unit each time is approx. 1000 watts. If in doubt check with the appliance manufacturer.

Microwave ovens are often referred to by their cooking power, which on average is only HALF their actual operating power consumption. However, switching on the oven consumes an extra 25% power as the capacitor is energised. Thus, a normal 600 watt oven actually needs 1500 watts to operate it.

TYPICAL CURRENT CONSUMPTION  CALCULATOR

The following calculator gives an approx. guide to the power requirements of a wide range of electrical goods. You should always check with the specific equipment or its manufacturer as to the precise wattage required.

Please enter the quantity of each item you are going to use. Some items have a range of power, please enter the quantity and power of these items.