If you’ve decided to invest in a Generac generator, you’re already on the right path to protecting your home or business from unexpected outages. But before installation, there’s one key question you need to answer:
What size generator is right for you?
At Alternative Power, we help customers every day find the perfect Generac generator for their needs—no guesswork, no overbuying. Here’s a quick guide to understanding how to choose the right size generator, based on your priorities, property size, and power requirements.
Why Generator Size Matters
Generator size is measured in kilowatts (kW), which determines how much electricity it can produce. Choose a unit too small, and you risk overloading it or leaving important systems offline during an outage. Go too big, and you could end up spending more than necessary on fuel and equipment.
Choosing the right size ensures reliable backup power that runs efficiently and supports everything you care about.
Step 1: Decide What You Want to Power
Start by thinking about what you want to keep running during an outage. You have three general options:
- Essential Circuits Only (8–14kW):
This is a budget-friendly option that covers the basics—refrigerator, lights, sump pump, internet, and maybe your HVAC fan. Great for small homes or those just looking to cover necessities. - Most of the House (14–22kW):
This covers a larger portion of your home—additional appliances, HVAC, security systems, and more. It’s ideal for medium to large homes where comfort and convenience matter during extended outages. - Whole-Home Coverage (22–38kW+):
Power everything, including large HVAC systems, well pumps, electric stoves, and more. If you want the peace of mind of living life as usual during a blackout, this is the way to go.
Step 2: Calculate Your Load
If you want to be exact (and avoid guesswork), a load calculation helps you identify your home’s or business’s total power demand. This includes:
- Square footage
- Number of large appliances
- HVAC systems
- Electric water heaters or well pumps
- Lighting and outlets
- Medical or specialty equipment
At Alternative Power, we’ll do this calculation for you as part of your consultation, so you get a right-sized generator—not one that’s too small or unnecessarily large.
Step 3: Factor in Fuel Type and Efficiency
Most Generac generators run on natural gas or propane, so your fuel source may also influence your size selection. For example, propane-powered systems might require larger tank capacities for whole-home solutions, while natural gas lines can often support larger units more easily.
Generac’s load management technology also helps maximize efficiency by prioritizing power usage, so even mid-sized units can do more than you think.
Not Sure? That’s Where We Come In
Choosing the right generator isn’t something you have to do alone. At Alternative Power, we assess your home, walk you through your power needs, and recommend the ideal Generac generator for your situation.
Ready to Find Your Fit?
Don’t wait until the next storm is in the forecast. Contact Alternative Power today for a free consultation, and let’s size your Generac generator the right way—so you stay powered through anything.
