Many homeowners turn to portable generators for backup power when facing power outages. However, how long these generators last is very important.
Many of our customers ask, “How long can my generator run with key appliances on?” This question is crucial for anyone planning to use a generator during an outage to ensure that their families aren’t impacted from disruptive events. Here, at Interlock Kit, we’re here to provide support with our standby generator sizing calculator.
Generator Fuel Consumption:
The duration a portable generator can run depends on several factors, including its fuel capacity, total load it supports, type of generator, and maintenance/upkeep. On average, most generators can operate for about 6 to 18 hours on a full tank of gas. The actual runtime may vary based on how much power you’re drawing from the unit.
The frequency of refueling a portable generator depends on the fuel tank capacity and the power demand. For instance, a generator with a 5-gallon tank generally requires refueling every 6 to 10 hours when operating at half capacity. Always turn off and allow the generator to cool before refueling to prevent fire or explosion hazards.
The fuel capacity determines how long the generator can operate before needing a refill, typically ranging from a few gallons to over ten gallons, depending on the model.
Practices For Smart Generator Usage:
The following practices not only help extend the generator’s operational life but also prevent potential damage caused by excessive strain. These strategies can help you optimize energy consumption and manage your electrical load effectively for your standby generator.
Staggering Usage:
- This involves turning appliances or devices one at a time instead of all at once. Along with avoiding using multiple high-amp appliances
simultaneously
Soft Starter:
- A soft start device purpose is to gradually increase the voltage of selected appliances when starting up your generator. This in turn will reduce the strain on the motor and prevent damage
Ventilation:
- An interlock kit gives you direct control over which circuits your generator powers. If your generator can handle the load, you can even power all your breakers, making it easy to maintain full functionality during a power outage with just a few switch flips
Monitor Consumption/Use Timers:
- Use smart plugs or energy monitors to track usage. Some of these smart appliances have the capability to auto-turn on/off during peak hours
Avoid Red Lining:
- This practice involves not maxing out your generator unless it’s required.
- Avoid running your generator at its maximum for more than 30 minutes
- A good rule of thumb is to aim for 85% usage of your generator. An example
is if you have a 7500-watt generator, aim to use 6400 watts max at a given
time.
Sizing Appliances for Standby Generators
Load management is essential when using generators to ensure optimal performance and efficiency. It involves prioritizing and controlling the electrical demand of connected appliances to prevent overloading the generator.
Below is a generator appliance wattage chart an average of watts of key appliances in a household. It is important to highlight that these are averages. Check your specific appliance before powering your generator up or contact our team to help calculate which a standby generator is right for you based on your desired wattage.
Generator Wattage Calculator
If you need further assistance with calculating wattages check out this generator wattage calculator.
Appliances to Consider When Making Estimations
Keep in mind when running appliances or components of your house, they don’t have to be on to draw in power. An example of this is a tank water heater: this isn’t actively switched on but rather remains on. A conventional tank water heater keeps a large reserve of hot water at any given time, rather than heating up on demand. The same is true for electric water heaters. If the tank has proper insulation and refills before the power goes out. You should have hot water for a good amount of time before the tank will need to be reheated.
The main takeaway is to think about what appliances you’re going to need during an outage. Be smart and strategic for what you need running at a given time and see if you can run appliances before they will be used.
Find the Right Sized Backup Power For Your Home
Understanding generator runtime is crucial for homeowners relying on portable generators during power outages. By considering factors such as fuel capacity, load management, and number of appliances you plan to power, you can maximize your generator’s efficiency and runtime.
Prioritizing essential devices and implementing smart usage strategies—like staggering appliance use, soft starter devices, monitoring consumption, avoiding red lining, etc. will not only enhance your generator’s performance but also provide a reliable power supply when you
need it most.
If you want to be extra certain you’re not overloading your generator we can make a custom interlock kit. It will safely keep non-essential breakers locked off while an emergency power source is running to eliminate the possibility of overloading – or ensuring we maximize productivity.
With the right approach, you can confidently navigate any power outage, knowing you have the tools to manage your energy needs effectively. We have a variety of generator interlock kit solutions that will safely support backup power to your home when you need it most.
