Power outages are unpredictable, and whether it’s an emergency backup or outdoor convenience, choosing the right size generator ensures your household stays powered. Westinghouse generators, trusted across Canada, offer dependable solutions for homes of all sizes. In this guide, we’ll help you determine the ideal generator size based on your power needs, appliance requirements, and fuel options.
Why Generator Sizing Matters
Selecting the correct generator size is essential for:
- Reliable Backup Power: Ensuring critical appliances stay operational during outages.
- Avoiding Overload: Generators must handle starting wattage (surge power) and running wattage (continuous power).
- Fuel Efficiency: Oversized generators consume more fuel, while undersized units may struggle to power appliances effectively.
For Canadian homeowners, Westinghouse generators provide a range of solutions, from compact models for smaller homes to high-powered options for whole-house backup.
Generator Size by Home Type
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Small Homes (1-2 Bedrooms)
A generator in the 5,500-8,000 watt range can typically cover essential appliances like lights, refrigerators, and small electronics. -
Medium Homes (3-4 Bedrooms)
Medium-sized households often require 9,000-14,000 watts to run larger appliances like sump pumps, HVAC systems, or water heaters. -
Large Homes (5+ Bedrooms)
For whole-house backup power, consider generators in the 13,000-20,000+ watt range to accommodate high-demand appliances.
Key Factors to Consider When Sizing a Generator
1. Wattage Requirements: Running vs. Starting Wattage
Appliances have two wattage requirements:
- Running Wattage: The power needed to keep an appliance operating.
- Starting Wattage: The surge power required at startup (e.g., refrigerators or AC units).
For example:
- Refrigerator: 800 running watts, 1,200 starting watts.
- Sump Pump: 1,000 running watts, 1,500 starting watts.
Always add up the wattages of your essential appliances to find the generator size that meets your needs.
2. Types of Generators
Westinghouse generators in Canada come in versatile options to suit different power needs:
- Compact and portable.
- Easy to refuel with widely available gasoline.
- Run on both propane and gasoline for flexibility.
- Extended run time with cleaner, eco-friendly propane fuel.
- Can operate on gasoline, propane, or natural gas for maximum versatility.
- Example: Westinghouse 9500TFc Tri-Fuel Generator.
For Canadians seeking long-term reliability, tri-fuel options are ideal for unpredictable weather and fuel availability.
3. Fuel Efficiency and Run Time
Generators like the Westinghouse 9500DF can operate for up to 12 hours at 25% load, making them an efficient choice for extended power outages. Look for models with large fuel tanks and fuel-saving features to maximize runtime.
4. Noise Levels (Decibels Matter!)
If you’re using a generator in residential areas, noise is a critical factor. Portable Westinghouse inverter generators are known for their quieter operation compared to traditional models, ensuring minimal disturbance for your household and neighbors.
Appliance Wattage Reference Table
Here’s a quick list of common household appliances and their approximate power requirements:
| Appliance | Running Wattage | Starting Wattage |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 600-800 watts | 1,200 watts |
| Air Conditioner | 1,000-3,000 watts | 2,000-4,500 watts |
| Microwave | 700-1,200 watts | N/A |
| Sump Pump | 1,000 watts | 1,500 watts |
| Water Heater | 1,500-4,500 watts | N/A |
| Electric Range | 1,500-3,000 watts | N/A |
| TV | 100-400 watts | N/A |
Top Westinghouse Generators for Canadian Homes
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Westinghouse 9500TFc (Tri-Fuel)
- Runs on gasoline, propane, or natural gas for unmatched versatility.
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Westinghouse 20,000 Gas Powered Generator
- Offers 20,000 running watts and 28,000 peak watts for whole-house power.
-
Westinghouse 9500DF Dual-Fuel Generator
- Delivers up to 12 hours of runtime at 25% load on a single tank.Conclusion
Choosing the right generator size for your home ensures you’re prepared for power outages, camping trips, or emergencies. By understanding your wattage requirements, fuel options, and generator capabilities, you can make an informed decision.
Westinghouse generators are a reliable solution for homes across Canada, offering versatile options from portable gas-powered units to advanced tri-fuel generators. Whether you need backup power for essential appliances or a complete whole-house solution, Westinghouse has you covered.
Ready to find the perfect generator? Explore Westinghouse Generators Canada and power your home with confidence.