What Can Your New Generator Actually Run During an Outage?

Many people assume every generator can run an entire property. Others buy a unit that turns out to be too small for their needs. The result is disappointment when certain appliances or equipment cannot run at the same time.

The good news is that you can avoid those surprises with proper planning. At Mr. Electric, we calculate the expected load and communicate potential issues before handling the generator installation. Our electricians work on both commercial and residential properties.

It All Starts with Your Electrical Load

Every appliance in your home uses electricity; Some use only a little while others require a great deal of power.

For instance, your refrigerator, lights, internet router, and television use much less electricity than your central air conditioner, electric range, or clothes dryer.

When sizing a generator, an electrician looks at two numbers:

• Starting wattage, or the extra power some motors need for a few seconds when they first start.
• Running wattage, or the power an appliance needs to keep operating.

That starting wattage is particularly noteworthy because equipment often need much more power to start than they do to keep running. A generator properly sized by a certified electrician in Sandy, UT accounts for both.

Essential Power or Whole-Home Power?

Not every property owner wants, or needs, to power everything during an outage. Many homeowners choose an essential-load generator. This type of system powers the equipment that matters most, such as:

• Refrigerator and freezer
• Heating or cooling system
• Medical devices
• Interior lighting
• Internet equipment
• Garage door opener
• Sump pump
• etc…

Of course, others prefer whole-home generator installation which can power nearly every circuit in the house to allow daily life to continue with very few interruptions.

What About Large Appliances?

Large appliances usually consume the most electricity. Electric water heaters, ovens, clothes dryers, and large HVAC systems can quickly use much of a generator's available capacity if several start at the same time.

Fortunately, modern standby systems often include load management features that automatically prioritize important circuits and delay less critical loads until enough power becomes available.

That means your heating system can run first while another appliance waits its turn. It’s always advisable to have a certified electrician explain your options and design a system. The uniformed pros at Mr. Electric are happy to help.

Businesses Have Different Needs

Commercial buildings often require a different approach than residential ones.

A restaurant may need refrigeration and kitchen equipment while a medical office may need computers, lighting, and specialized equipment to stay online 24/7.

Instead of guessing, the trained electrician team at Mr. Electric calculates the building's electrical demand before recommending a generator.

If your existing electrical system needs attention before adding backup power, our electrical repair service team can make sure everything is ready.

Prepare Before the Next Outage

The best time to plan for a power outage is before the lights go out. Whether you want to protect a few essential appliances or power your entire home or business, the right generator starts with the right plan.

The local team at Mr. Electric will take the time to understand your goals, explain your options, and install a backup power system you can trust. Don't wait until the next storm leaves you in the dark. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

We are proud to offer emergency electrical repair service, too. Call or message Mr. Electric to get in touch with a live representative today.