When the power goes out during a hurricane, it’s not just inconvenient—it’s potentially dangerous. Your refrigerator shuts down, your sump pump stalls, fans stop turning, and suddenly, a simple task like charging your phone becomes a major problem. That’s why understanding the right hurricane generator size is one of the most valuable prep moves you can make. The goal isn’t to go big or go home. It’s about choosing the right size for your actual needs, avoiding the extremes of overkill and underperformance. This post will walk you through how to figure it out and why the right size generator means more than just numbers.
Why Generator Size Matters in a Hurricane
Let’s break it down: when people talk about hurricane generator size, they’re talking about how much wattage a generator can handle. There are two kinds of watts to pay attention to—running watts and starting watts. Running watts keep things going steadily. Starting watts are those short, intense bursts needed to start things like fridge compressors or sump pumps.
If you don’t get the size right, a few things can happen. If the generator is too small, it will constantly trip breakers, possibly damage your appliances, or just shut off when overloaded. Too large, and you’ve just spent a bunch of money on a heavy, fuel-hungry machine that’s too loud, too bulky, and more power than you’ll ever use. Balance is key. A generator that runs at around 70–80% of its maximum output is healthier for the engine, more fuel-efficient, and more reliable in long-term use.
How to Calculate the Right Hurricane Generator Size
It’s not complicated, but it does require a little planning. Start by making a list of the essentials—stuff you really need during a storm outage. Think in terms of safety and comfort: refrigerator, sump pump, a fan or small window AC unit, phone and device chargers, some lighting, and maybe a microwave or coffee maker.
Each appliance has a wattage requirement, usually on the back label or in the manual. If it lists amps instead of watts, multiply by 120 (for standard U.S. voltage). Let’s say your fridge needs 700 watts to run and 2,200 to start. Your sump pump uses 1,500 running watts with a 3,000-watt startup surge. Add your lights, which may only be 500 watts total, and maybe 100 watts for charging devices. Your total running wattage might land around 2,800–3,000 watts, with a peak start-up need around 3,000 watts.
Now add your running watt total with your largest startup wattage—around 6,000 watts in this case. Then add a buffer of 10 to 20 percent, giving you a recommended hurricane generator size of 6,500 to 7,000 watts. That buffer helps the generator handle small changes in load and ensures you’re not red-lining the engine constantly.
Which Generator Size Fits Your Home?
Let’s map out what different generator sizes can realistically do in a hurricane situation:
1,000 to 2,400 watts – These are small inverter generators. Super portable, very fuel-efficient, and great for charging phones, running Wi-Fi, and powering a few lights. But they’re not going to run your fridge or any appliance with a motor. Ideal for apartments or very minimal setups.
3,000 to 4,500 watts – These mid-sized units can power a refrigerator, some lights, a few chargers, and maybe a small window AC. This range is often used in small homes, condos, or when the priority is keeping one room livable and food from spoiling.
5,000 to 7,500 watts – The sweet spot for many homes. These generators can handle a fridge, sump pump, window AC, lighting, and some other small devices without strain. They’re portable with wheels but not light. Most of these will run on gas or dual fuel (gas and propane), giving flexibility when gas stations run dry.
8,000 to 10,000 watts – These are large portables, capable of powering small central AC systems, more circuits, and larger loads. They’re heavy, loud, and burn more fuel. Unless you have a large household or specific high-power needs, most people don’t need to go this big. If you do, consider investing in a transfer switch and making it part of your home’s permanent emergency plan.
Important Safety and Usage Tips
No matter what hurricane generator size you pick, it’s crucial to run it safely. First rule: never run a generator indoors or in an attached garage. Always keep it at least 15 feet from windows and doors, and point the exhaust away from the house.
Look for generators with built-in carbon monoxide (CO) shutoff sensors. These are lifesaving features that detect dangerous levels of CO buildup and turn off the engine before it becomes lethal. Newer models are designed with this in mind and meet updated safety standards.
Fuel planning is part of generator ownership. Gasoline has a shelf life, so use stabilizer and rotate your fuel stock every few months. Propane doesn’t go bad, making dual-fuel generators an excellent choice for long-term storm prep. Have enough fuel on hand for at least 48–72 hours of continuous or intermittent runtime.
Also, test your generator monthly. Run it for 10–15 minutes to make sure it’s in working order, and check the oil level. During hurricane season, store it in an easily accessible location and keep cords, oil, and fuel nearby. A well-maintained generator is your best friend when the lights go out.
Hurricane Generator Size
Choosing the right hurricane generator size isn’t just about picking the biggest one you can afford. It’s about matching your needs, planning wisely, and being confident your generator can handle your critical loads without fail. In most cases, a generator in the 5,000 to 7,500-watt range gives you the power and flexibility to keep your household safe, functional, and even a little bit comfortable while the storm rages outside.
So before the next storm warning hits your screen, do the math, check your wattage, and make sure your generator setup is ready to go. Because when the wind howls and the lights go out, having the right power on standby can make all the difference.
