Use our generator size calculator to work out what size generator you need. Add the household appliances you want to run, or enter the horsepower and starting method (DOL or Star Delta) for electric motors. The calculator gives you the generator size in kVA, plus the running and starting current in amps. Motors and compressors draw far more power at start-up than when running, so sizing for that surge stops an undersized generator from tripping. For help choosing a model, call 1300 622 436.
If you require assistance with this Power Calculator or what generator will best suit your requirements, please don't hesitate to contact us.
| HP | = |
Horsepower |
| kW | = |
Kilo Watts |
| kVA | = |
Kilo Volt Amps |
| I | = |
Ampere or Current |
| V | = |
Volts |
| PF | = |
Power Factor |
Instructions: Fill in the HP of the motor(s) in their starting sequence, select the start method (DOL - Direct On Line or Star Delta) and press Calculate. The required generator size will then be displayed at the bottom.
* Please NOTE the above calculations are an estimate only because other factors such as site conditions, motor efficiencies and iron losses are not taken into consideration.
Fill out the Generator Size to Start Motors calculator above to see Generator recommendations
Sorry! No Generator sizes found matching your recommendation.
| Appliance | Rated Watts | Rated kVA | Rated kVA |
|---|---|---|---|
| (Appliances) | (To operate appliance) | ( To start appliance) | |
| Air Conditioner (Evaporative model) | 275-1000 | 0.34-1.25 | 1.36-5 |
| Air Conditioner (Reverse cycle) | 200-2500 | 0.25-3.13 | 1-12.5 |
| Clothes Dryer | 2400 | 3 | 3 |
| Coffee Percolator | 550 | 0.69 | 0.69 |
| Can Opener | 100 | 0.13 | 0.52 |
| Deep Freezer | 500 | 0.63 | 2.52 |
| Disposal Unit | 650 | 0.81 | 3.24 |
| Dishwasher | 1000-3000 | 1.25-3.75 | 1.25-3.75 |
| Domestic Water Pumps | 275-1000 | 0.34-1.25 | 1.36-5 |
| Exhaust Fan | 40 | 0.05 | 0.2 |
| Food Processor | 500 | 0.63 | 2.52 |
| Floor Polisher | 350 | 0.44 | 1.76 |
| Frypan | 1400 | 1.75 | 1.75 |
| Hair Dryer | 1500 | 1.88 | 1.88 |
| Hotwater Service | 2500-3000 | 3.13-3.75 | 3-13-3.75 |
| Iron | 800-1500 | 1-1.88 | 1-1.88 |
| Kettle or jug | 1600-3000 | 2-3.75 | 2-3.75 |
| Lights | 25-200 | 0.03-0.25 | 0.03-0.25 |
| Microwave | 1500 | 1.88 | 1.88 |
| Oven | 4000-8000 | 5-10 | 5-10 |
| Radio | 60 | 0.08 | 0.08 |
| Radiator | 1000-2500 | 1.25-3.13 | 115-3.13 |
| Refrigerator (home) | 300 | 0.38 | 1.52 |
| Sewing Machine | 60 | 0.08 | 0.32 |
| Space Heater | 2000 | 2-5 | 2.5 |
| Television | 75-200 | 0.09-0.25 | 0.09-0.25 |
| Toaster | 250-1250 | 0.3-1.56 | 0.3-1.56 |
| Washing Machine | 500-3000 | 0.63-3.75 | 2.52-15 |
| Welder 140A | 5000 | 6.25 | 8 min |
Inductive loads (typically electric motors, electric pumps, electric compressors and air conditioners) require 6-8 times more current to start than to run. Most generators can provide 100% overload for start up purposes. A 1 Hp electric motor therefore will require 3-4kVA for start up. Once the 1 Hp electric motor has started, it will only consume 1 kVA leaving a extra 2-3kVA available for other appliances.
However, the newer 'Inverter' style generators may be more efficient and capable of starting higher loads.
The generator size must be equal or greater than the total consumption of all applications. The higher starting requirement must be taken into account accordingly. To maximise the generator potential, the largest electrical motor should be started on its own and further appliances should only be switched on thereafter.
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