A generator would generally need to provide 2,000 Watts of power in order to run for the average load of an appliance as large as a refrigerator. The normal running time for the generator would be 6 hours if it’s being used continuously or 12-24 hours if it’s being used periodically.
How Many Watts Does a Refrigerator Need?
A typical 15 cubic foot, top-freezer-refrigerator will consume approximately 325 Watts when it’s running. This is the input required to maintain temperature within the appliance prior to turning it off for a couple of hours. A larger fridge will require more and a smaller one will consume less.
If you are looking at running a generator for 12-24 hours, then the generator can have an output greater than 2,000 Watts. If you are only planning on running the generator for 6 hours, then you need at least 1,500 Watts. As your appliances increase in size, the energy required to operate them also increases accordingly.
If the refrigerator is operating for 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, it would utilize 2.1 Kilowatt-hours of electricity each day, which is equal to 1/5th of a fuel tank or 60 gallons of gasoline.
Which is the best portable generator for a refrigerator?
For a refrigerator, the most powerful portable generator you can have is the Honda EU2000i. It’s a 2000 Watt generator that weighs less than 50 pounds and can be carried with one hand. The price of the Honda EU2000i is $899 from most online retailers. It’s an integrated inverter generator that means it doesn’t produce any harmful interference, and it has a decent fuel efficiency.
Most refrigerator manufacturers do not recommend running their refrigerators on generators but in an emergency situation it’s better to have one than not to have one. If you don’t want to be caught empty-handed when your power goes out, get yourself a good quality portable generator.
Can A Generator Damage a Refrigerator?
Some sensitive electronic devices such as computers and other household appliances also shouldn’t be run on generators. One of the main problems with a fridge is its condenser which works at an extremely high temperature and is positioned in close proximity to the compressor.
However, inverter generators are designed so that they do not overheat and are much more efficient than other generators. With a good quality unit like the Honda EU2000i, there shouldn’t be any problems in running it on an inverter generator.
Can a 2000 watt generator run a refrigerator?
A 2,000-watt inverter generator should be sufficient for most refrigerators. However, we recommend going a little higher than the minimum standard of 2,000 watts. If you live in an area that has outages, you will be glad to have a reliable generator to rely on.
What kind of generator should I get?
If you are living in a household with people aged 50 or older or if you have a sensitive electronic device such as a computer, we recommend that the Honda EU2000i. If it’s not available in your local area, then go for something good quality and inverter. Look online at various models and choose one which fits your needs. You may even want to look at generators that are electric start only as they may be quieter than one with an engine.
Key features to look for in an inverter generator:
- Fuel efficiency
- Noise level
- Portability and mobility
- Fuel consumption
- Warranty period and best cost value
- Quality of build
- Capacity of battery bank (Ah rating)
- Longevity of the manufacturer of the electric start motor
- Availability of accessories
- Manufacturer’s reputation and customer service record
- Price/value ratio
These are just a few of the many important factors to consider when making your decision on which generator is right for you.