What Size Standby Generator Do I Need

When considering a standby generator for your Blairstown, NJ home, one of the most common questions is: What size standby generator do I need? The answer depends on your household’s specific power needs, and choosing the right model ensures both safety and comfort during outages. Seidel Electric, your trusted Generac PowerPRO dealer, offers expert guidance on generator sizing to help you make a confident investment.

Why Proper Sizing Matters

Undersizing a generator can leave your essential appliances without power, while oversizing may lead to unnecessary costs and inefficient operation. The right size ensures your generator runs smoothly, meets your family’s needs, and provides long-term reliability during New Jersey’s unpredictable weather.

How to Calculate Wattage Needs

The best way to determine the correct size is by calculating your household’s total wattage requirements. Every appliance adds to the demand placed on your generator, and starting watts are often higher than running watts. A professional assessment ensures your generator can handle both without overload.

Common Appliance Load Examples

Understanding typical wattage demands can help you visualize your power needs. Below are approximate requirements for common household items:

• Refrigerator/Freezer – 600 to 800 watts running, up to 2,000 starting
• Sump Pump – 800 to 1,000 watts running, 1,500 to 2,000 starting
• Central AC (3-ton) – 5,000 to 7,500 watts running
• Electric Water Heater – 4,500 watts running
• Lights & Small Electronics – 300 to 600 watts combined

Whole-House vs. Essential Circuits

Homeowners often choose between whole-house coverage or powering only essential circuits. Whole-house standby generators provide seamless comfort by running everything at once, while essential circuit setups focus on critical appliances like refrigerators, heating systems, and medical equipment. The choice depends on your lifestyle, budget, and tolerance for short-term inconvenience during outages.

The Role of Professional Generator Sizing Tools

While online calculators and charts can provide a rough estimate, nothing replaces the accuracy of professional generator sizing tools. At Seidel Electric, we use the official Generac sizing guide for NJ homes to account for surge loads, simultaneous appliance use, and future power needs. This ensures your investment is right-sized not only for today but also for years to come.

Using a Sizing Guide for NJ Homes

Choosing the right generator begins with understanding your unique NJ home power needs. A professional home generator sizing guide helps determine whether you need coverage for just essential circuits or your entire household. Accurate standby generator sizing ensures you have reliable backup power without overspending on unnecessary capacity. With a Generac sizing guide NJ homeowners can make confident, informed decisions that balance comfort, efficiency, and long-term reliability.

Why Choose Seidel Electric?

Seidel Electric has been serving Blairstown, NJ, and the tri-state area since 1944. As a family-owned company and Certified Select Generac PowerPRO Dealer, we combine decades of experience with personalized service. Our team provides accurate load calculations, professional installation, and ongoing maintenance to ensure your generator is the right fit for your home.

Get Expert Help With Generator Sizing

If you’re asking, What size standby generator do I need?—the best next step is to consult a licensed professional. Seidel Electric will evaluate your NJ home’s power demands, walk you through our Generac sizing guide, and provide a tailored solution. Contact us today to schedule your home generator sizing consultation and learn more about our NJ standby generator services.