When considering a generator for your 2000 square foot house, selecting the right size is essential. The right generator will ensure that you can keep your lights on, power appliances, and maintain comfort during a power outage. However, choosing the wrong size can lead to issues like insufficient power or unnecessary fuel consumption.
Generators come in various sizes, and each one is designed to meet different needs. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of selecting the appropriate size generator for your home. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how much power you need and the types of generators that are best suited for your requirements.
Understanding the Power Requirements
Before diving into the specifics of choosing a generator size, it’s important to understand how to determine your power requirements.
The power needs of a 2000 square foot house depend on several factors, including:
- The number of appliances you want to power
- The type of heating and cooling systems in place
- How many lights and outlets need to be operational during an outage
Appliances and Their Power Needs
To figure out the correct generator size, start by adding up the wattage of the devices and appliances you want to keep running.
Some of the most common appliances to consider include:
Refrigerator: Typically uses between 600-800 watts.
Microwave: Can require 1000-1500 watts.
Air conditioning: Central air can use up to 4000 watts, while window units typically use around 1000-1500 watts.
Water heater: Uses around 4500 watts.
Lights: Depending on the type and number of bulbs, this can be anywhere from 100 to 1000 watts.
By adding the wattage of all the appliances, you’ll get an idea of how much power your house consumes in total.
Start with a Whole House Generator
For most 2000 square foot homes, a whole-house generator is the best option. This type of generator is designed to provide electricity to the entire house, ensuring you don’t lose any major functionality during a power outage.
Whole-house generators are available in a wide range of sizes. Typically, the size you’ll need depends on your energy consumption and the number of appliances you need to run.
Calculating the Right Generator Size for a 2000 Square Foot House
Now that you have a general idea of the wattage requirements, it’s time to calculate the right size generator for your home.
To do this, you need to follow these steps:
1. Determine Total Wattage Requirements
Make a list of the devices and appliances you want to run during a power outage. Add up the running wattage for each appliance.
For instance:
Refrigerator: 800 watts
Microwave: 1000 watts
Central air conditioning: 4000 watts
Water heater: 4500 watts
Lights and other small appliances: 1000 watts
Total wattage = 800 + 1000 + 4000 + 4500 + 1000 = 10300 watts.
2. Consider Starting Wattage
Some appliances, especially motor-driven ones like refrigerators, require more power to start than to run. The starting wattage is typically 1.5 to 2 times higher than the running wattage.
For example:
Refrigerator starting wattage: 1600 watts
Air conditioning starting wattage: 6000 watts
Water heater starting wattage: 9000 watts
Add the starting wattage to the total wattage requirement to get a more accurate estimate.
Total starting wattage = 1600 + 6000 + 9000 + 1000 = 17600 watts.
3. Add a Buffer for Extra Safety
It’s always a good idea to add a safety buffer when choosing a generator size. A 10-20% buffer ensures that the generator won’t be under constant strain, extending its lifespan. For this example, add 10% to the total wattage.
Final wattage requirement = 17600 watts × 1.10 = 19360 watts.
4. Choose a Generator with the Correct Power Output
Now that you know your total wattage requirement, you can choose a generator with a slightly higher output to accommodate any additional power needs. For a 2000 square foot house with a total wattage requirement of 19360 watts, a generator rated at 20,000 watts or more is ideal.
Types of Generators
There are several types of generators available, and each one has different features and applications. Understanding the differences will help you make a more informed decision.
Portable Generators
Portable generators are often used for smaller applications. While they can provide a decent amount of power, they are generally not designed to handle the full load of a large house. A portable generator can be used for essential appliances like a refrigerator and a few lights, but it’s not ideal for powering an entire home during an outage.
For a 2000 square foot house, portable generators typically provide power in the range of 3000-7500 watts. These are useful in emergencies, but they may not handle large appliances like central air conditioning or a water heater.
Standby Generators
Standby generators, also known as whole-house generators, are ideal for powering an entire home. They are permanently installed and automatically start up during a power outage. These generators are capable of handling larger wattage demands and are available in sizes from 5000 to 50,000 watts, making them suitable for 2000 square foot homes.
For a 2000 square foot home, a generator in the range of 15,000-20,000 watts is a good choice, but if you want to power every appliance, including high-demand systems, you may opt for one that provides a bit more power.
Inverter Generators
Inverter generators are quieter and more fuel-efficient than conventional generators. They are ideal for running sensitive electronics, like computers or TVs, because they provide stable, clean power. However, they may not be able to handle the high starting wattage of appliances like air conditioners and refrigerators.
For a 2000 square foot house, an inverter generator may only be able to handle the essentials, like lighting and a refrigerator. These generators typically range from 1000-4000 watts and may not be powerful enough to run larger appliances during a power outage.
Choosing Between Gas, Diesel, and Propane
When selecting a generator for your 2000 square foot house, you’ll need to decide on the type of fuel it will use.
Here are the most common options:
Gasoline Generators
Gasoline generators are widely available and relatively affordable. They are easy to refuel, but gasoline has a limited shelf life and can be volatile. These generators are suitable for smaller homes or short-term use.
Diesel Generators
Diesel generators are more fuel-efficient and can run longer than gasoline generators. They are typically larger and more expensive but are ideal for homes with higher power demands. Diesel is also safer to store than gasoline.
Propane Generators
Propane generators are cleaner-burning and produce fewer emissions than gasoline or diesel. They are also more environmentally friendly. However, propane is usually more expensive, and you’ll need a supply tank that can last through an extended outage.
Additional Considerations
When selecting a generator, there are a few other factors you should consider:
1. Noise Levels
Generators can be noisy, especially if you need to power large appliances. If noise is a concern, look for models that are rated for quieter operation. Inverter generators, in particular, are known for their quiet performance.
2. Budget
The price of a generator can vary greatly depending on the size and features. Standby generators tend to be the most expensive, while portable generators are more affordable. Consider your budget when making your decision.
3. Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your generator running efficiently. Be sure to read the owner’s manual and follow the recommended maintenance schedule. Some generators also come with extended warranties that cover parts and labor.
4. Installation
For standby generators, you’ll need professional installation. This can add to the upfront cost but ensures that the generator is properly set up to provide seamless power during an outage. Portable and inverter generators are typically more DIY-friendly.
Conclusion
Selecting the right generator size for your 2000 square foot home doesn’t have to be difficult. Start by calculating your total wattage needs and add a safety buffer. Choose a generator type that meets your requirements and consider fuel options, noise levels, and your budget. By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure that you have a reliable power source for your home when you need it the most.
Investing in the right generator can provide peace of mind during power outages and help you maintain comfort in your home no matter the weather or circumstances.
