Considering a backup generator for your home is a smart move as it brings peace of mind during power outages.
Now, the key question is: What's the right generator size for your 2000 sq ft house? Sizing a home generator is a bit tricky; it depends on your home's size and which appliances you want to keep running when the power goes out.
But no need to stress about it. We're here to help you by letting you know the whole information about generators, including their sizes and types.
Different Types of Generators
There are various types of generators for homes that can suit individual needs. Before choosing the right generator for your home, you should look for some popular types:
Battery Generators
These are some of the most popular types of generators that can be recharged with solar panels, AC units, and other options. It features chemical batteries that are safe and durable.
Combining them with solar panels can make your home more efficient, friendly, and sustainable. Also, they store significant energy smartly to power all small and large homes. For example, the BLUETTI home battery system has a premium LiFePO4 battery, flexible options, and a great user experience.
Solar Generators
Solar generators have solar panels that convert solar energy to electricity. You may need an inverter to convert stored energy (DC ) to usable electricity (AC) to run all household appliances. However, solar panels don't produce energy at night or in bad weather. So, battery backup like BLUETTI power solution helps you store extra energy to power your home needs anytime.
Gasoline Generators
Gasoline generators work on gasoline fuel, which converts mechanical energy to electric energy. Also, they are affordable and very easily available. However, it should only be used outdoors. The gas emissions and its noise make it an outdated approach.
Diesel Generators
Diesel generators are known for their efficiency. They have a good life span and power the home perfectly. However, they are noisy, emit gases, and can only be used outdoors.
Natural Gas Generators
Natural gas generators produce less emissions than diesel and gasoline. Also, with a natural gas supply, you can install it hassle-free. The initial cost of installation will be high. Also, you have to install it outside.
Home Standby Generators
They are also known as "Whole House." They are popular among homeowners who experience lots of natural disasters like hurricanes, etc. They can be connected to the house's natural gas or propane line. Also, some may come with backup sources like solar or gasoline, so you can try alternative methods if you run short of fuel. Also, they can run all light to heavy appliances. However, they are very costly and need maintenance.
Related article: How to Choose The Best Whole House Solar Generator?
Importance of Sizing a Home Generator Correctly
Choosing the right size for your home generator is crucial to ensure it can handle your equipment effectively when you need it most. Your generator's load capacity should be larger than your maximum needs, allowing for any sudden spikes in power demand. This flexibility is essential when running multiple devices simultaneously.
Accurate load size calculations are vital to safeguard your generator's lifespan. Operating your generator at its maximum capacity for extended periods can harm its durability. Calculating the load size correctly not only protects your generator but also future-proofs your power requirements, especially when you leave a safe margin of 20-30%.
When buying a generator, two common mistakes should be avoided. Firstly, purchasing an oversized generator leads to unnecessary expenses in terms of initial cost and ongoing fuel consumption. Secondly, buying an undersized generator limits its capability and can strain the equipment, potentially causing failures or increased maintenance needs.
Properly sizing your generator is crucial to prevent various issues. Avoiding the pitfalls of an overly large or too small generator is essential.
Here are some reasons emphasizing the importance of selecting the right-sized generator for your home:
- Efficiency: A well-sized generator operates efficiently, saving you money on fuel costs and reducing unnecessary expenses.
- Reliability: A correctly sized generator ensures a consistent power supply during outages, preventing disruptions to your daily routines.
- Equipment Protection: Proper sizing avoids putting undue stress on your generator and equipment, prolonging their lifespan.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Matching your generator size to your needs ensures you get the most value for your investment.
How to Calculate Generator Size to Run A 2000 Sq Ft House
To determine this, you can consider all the factors discussed later in this section. The compatible generator size depends on the number of appliances and their usage time.
Also, you can check the required volts or amps of the appliances.
To find this, you can use this formula: Generator Size = Wattage Consumption × Number of hours you use it.
To calculate wattage, use this formula: Watts (W) = Volts (V) × Amps (A)
Suppose you use around 30 kWh daily after assessing your energy requirement. It would be best to have a generator that produces 30 kWh or more per day.
A list of different things to consider while calculating the right size generator to fulfill needs is as follows:
- List Your Power Requirements:
- Begin by making a list of the devices and equipment you intend to power during an outage.
- Consider the specific needs of your business or situation, such as lighting, security systems, HVAC systems, servers, and critical equipment.
- Account for Device Types:
- Different devices have varying power demands, so categorize them accordingly.
- Note whether your devices require single-phase or three-phase power and their voltage requirements.
- Determine Starting and Running Loads:
- Recognize that devices often have two power requirements:
- Starting Load: The initial surge of power needed to kickstart devices from a standstill.
- Running Load: The power required to keep devices operating continuously.
- Calculate the total power demand by adding starting and running loads together.
- Select Measurement Method:
- Depending on your business type and power needs, choose an appropriate method for estimating your full load capacity:
- Real-Time Measurement: Measure amperage and voltage to calculate kilowatt requirements.
- Full Load Capacity by History: Analyze past utility bills for peak demand.
- Full Load Capacity with Extensive Motor Use: Calculate power requirements for various loads, especially motors.
- Square Footage Measurement: Commonly used for retail spaces, estimate power needs based on square footage.
- Consider Reserve or Surge Capacity:
- In many commercial applications, it's essential to account for unexpected power surges or spikes, especially for equipment with large motors.
- Ensure your generator can handle these temporary power increases.
What is the Ideal Size Generator for Home?
Below, we outline different generator sizes and their rated wattage to assist you in making the appropriate choice for your home:
- 5 kilowatts (kW):
- Suitable for small homes or small office businesses.
- Powers small electrical appliances like lights and a small fridge.
- 6.5 kilowatts (kW):
- Ideal for essential power needs.
- Supports items such as low-wattage televisions, lighting, fridge, and a low-wattage kettle.
- 8 kilowatts (kW):
- Suited for small offices.
- Capable of powering computers, a kettle, and a microwave for lunch breaks.
- 10 kilowatts (kW):
- Suitable for construction sites, supporting tools like drills and air compressors.
- Also capable of running household appliances like a tumble dryer, electric oven, fridge freezer, and lighting.
- 15 kilowatts (kW):
- Versatile for home electronics or small shops.
- Can handle the power requirements of a single large appliance or multiple smaller ones.
- 25+ kilowatts (kW):
- Powerful generators for extensive applications.
- Can provide electricity for entire households, hotels, outdoor events, including appliances like air conditioners and heaters.
Best BLUETTI Ideal Size Generator for Your Home
We highly recommend you buy the below-mentioned generators from BLUETTI.
1. BLUETTI AC200P Portable Power Station | 2,000W 2,000Wh
The BLUETTI AC200P Portable Power Station is a powerful generator. It features a 2000W AC Pure Sine Wave Inverter with a 4800W surge capacity, ensuring it can handle various appliances. With a 2000Wh LiFePO4 battery provides long-lasting reliability. This generator offers seven ways to recharge your different devices.
2. BLUETTI AC200MAX + B230 Home Battery Backup
The BLUETTI AC200MAX + B230 Home Battery Backup is a generator that offers impressive features for reliable power supply. It includes a 2,200W AC Pure Sine Wave Inverter with a 4,800W surge capacity and a substantial 2,048Wh LiFePO4 battery with over 3,500 life cycles to 80% capacity. It allows you to expand its capacity up to 8,192Wh.
3. BLUETTI EP900 + B500 Home Battery Backup
The BLUETTI EP900 + B500 Home Battery Backup comes with a whooping ability to support up to 9,000W, 120V and 240V devices, making it fit for high-wattage appliances. It boasts an impressive 10-20kWh capacity, making it able to accommodate daily needs seamlessly. Its 100% modular design lets you customize the battery to your energy needs.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Generator
Below mentioned are some of the factors you should consider when choosing a generator:
- Compliance with Codes and Standards:
- Understand and adhere to electrical codes and safety standards, such as the National Electrical Code (NEC) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) requirements.
- Generator Size and Type:
- Select a generator size that matches your calculated power requirements.
- Choose between portable and standby generators, considering your intended use.
- Automatic vs. Manual Operation:
- Decide whether you need a generator that can automatically switch on when the primary power fails or one that requires manual activation.
- Power Phase:
- Determine if your business requires single-phase or three-phase power, as this affects voltage levels and equipment compatibility.
- Fuel Source:
- Choose the appropriate fuel source for your generator, such as diesel, propane, natural gas, or gasoline.
- Consider fuel availability, storage, and environmental factors.
- Noise Considerations:
- Evaluate the noise rating of the generator, particularly if it will be installed in a noise-sensitive area.
- Ensure compliance with local noise regulations.
- Installation and Maintenance:
- Plan for proper installation and regular maintenance to keep the generator in good working condition.
- Factor in maintenance costs when budgeting for your generator.
- Capacity Margins:
- Consider leaving a margin of 20-30% above your calculated power needs to accommodate potential future power requirements.
- This ensures your generator remains reliable as your needs evolve.
A Final Say
In a final say when you are choosing the right generator size for your 2000 Sq. ft house, consider your electricity needs carefully. Make a list of your devices, calculate their power requirements, and leave a 20-30% margin for future needs.
Choose a generator size that matches your calculated load. You have the option to purchase the high-capacity generators from BLUETTI that we previously discussed to meet all your energy needs.
