When a storm hits in Texas, losing power can turn life upside down. A reliable home backup generator helps you stay safe, comfortable, and connected. With so many options available, choosing the right size generator is an important step in making sure your home has the power it needs. This guide breaks it down step by step so you can feel confident in your decision.
Why Does Generator Sizing Matter
Texas weather can be intense, especially during hurricane season, so power outages are something you can almost count on happening. Whether it's a tropical storm or a summer heatwave, losing power can put your safety and comfort at risk. That's why more homeowners are turning to hurricane generators and standby generator solutions for reliable power outage protection.
The size of your home backup generator affects everything: what appliances you can run, how long you can stay powered, and whether your generator performs efficiently. If you get one too small, you risk overloading the system. If your generator is too large, then you’re wasting money and fuel.
How to Choose the Right Size Home Backup Generator
To find the right fit, start by figuring out exactly what you need to power.
Step 1: List Your Essential Appliances
Start by identifying your emergency power needs. Think about what you need to keep running during an outage:
- Refrigerator and freezer
- HVAC or portable A/C unit
- Lights and ceiling fans
- Medical equipment
- Internet router and devices
- Microwave or small kitchen appliances
- Sump pump or well pump (if applicable)
These essential appliances will be the foundation for determining the right generator size.
Step 2: Add Up Wattage Requirements
Next, look at the appliance wattage for each item. You can usually find this on a sticker or in the user manual. Be sure to check both the running wattage (what it uses during normal operation) and the starting wattage (a higher spike that occurs when the appliance first turns on).
Not sure where to start? Try using an online generator size calculator to help you estimate your total appliance wattage load.
Example:
- Refrigerator: 700W running / 1,200W starting
- Lights: 300W total
- Window A/C: 1,000W running / 1,600W starting
- Router & devices: 100W
- Microwave: 1,200W
Total = ~4,000W running / ~6,000W starting
Tip from the pros: If an appliance has a motor (like a fridge or A/C unit), it will require more power when starting up than it does while running. This is called starting wattage, and it can be up to three times the running wattage.
To estimate total needs for any appliance with a motor:
Running wattage + (Running wattage x 3) = Total startup wattage
For example, a refrigerator that runs at 350W could need up to 1,400W at startup. Not accounting for this spike could lead to overloads or generator shutdowns.
Step 3: Match Generator Size to Your Needs
Now that you’ve calculated your wattage, it’s time to choose a generator that can handle your power needs. Below are typical size ranges based on total wattage required.
- Small portable generators (up to 3,000W): Good for a few basic appliances
- Medium generators (3,000–6,500W): Can run several items, including small A/C units
- Large generators (6,500–10,000W+): Suitable for powering most of your home
- Whole-home generator (10,000W+ standby system): Automatically powers your entire home during an outage
If you're looking for set-it-and-forget-it convenience, a standby generator is worth considering.
Types of Home Backup Generators
Choosing the right size generator depends on how much you want to power and how often you lose electricity. Beyond size, think about the type of generator setup that fits your lifestyle and home. The three main types of home generators each come with their own features, fuel sources, and convenience levels.
1. Portable generators
Great for occasional outages and powering a few essential appliances.
- Affordable and flexible
- Requires manual setup, refueling, and outdoor use
2. Inverter generators
Ideal for sensitive electronics or small loads like a fridge and lights.
- Quiet, fuel-efficient, and compact
- Higher cost per watt, limited output
3. Standby generators
Thes are permanently installed outside your home and connect directly to your home’s electrical system. They start automatically when an outage occurs, offering seamless power outage protection.
- Automatic operation, powers your whole home
- Higher upfront cost and professional installation required
If you want peace of mind during Texas weather events like hurricanes, a whole-home generator with automatic transfer capabilities may be the most dependable solution. Whichever you choose, be sure it meets your emergency power needs and includes enough wattage for appliance start-up surges.
Tips for Choosing the Right Size Generator
Keep these storm preparation tips in mind as you shop:
- Choose a home backup generator with a little more capacity than your calculations to avoid overload
- Consider a model with an automatic transfer switch for ease of use
- Check if your local code requires professional installation
- Look for hurricane generators with remote monitoring features, especially if you're away from home often
Installation Considerations
There’s more to setting up a home backup generator than just picking the right size. Before installation, think through these details:
- Placement: You’ll need a safe, well-ventilated spot outside your home, away from windows and doors
- Fuel type: Most generators run on natural gas, propane, or diesel. Your choice may depend on what’s already available at your home
- Noise level: Some models are quieter than others, which may matter if your generator is close to outdoor living spaces
- Permits and codes: Depending on where you live, you may need a permit before installation
Some generators also require periodic maintenance, so look for a brand or installer that provides ongoing support. It’s worth working with a licensed professional to ensure your system is installed safely and meets all local requirements.
Generator Safety Tips for Texas Homes
While generators are essential for storm prep, they must be used safely:
- Never run a generator indoors, including garages, sheds, or enclosed porches. Carbon monoxide buildup can be fatal
- Place generators at least 20 feet away from your home with the exhaust directed away from windows or doors
- Keep dry. Generators should not be used in rain without a cover or tent-style enclosure
- Use a transfer switch for connecting to your home panel. This prevents dangerous backfeed and ensures your generator works safely with your electrical system
If your model doesn’t include built-in carbon monoxide shutoff technology, consider upgrading to one that does for added peace of mind.
Is a Home Backup Generator Worth It?
If you’ve ever lost power during a Texas storm, you already know the answer. A home backup generator helps protect your appliances, keeps your home livable, and ensures you’re not scrambling during a blackout. Whether you need short-term support or full-home coverage, sizing your generator correctly is the first step toward peace of mind.
Prepare Now for Peace of Mind
Texas weather is unpredictable, but your home doesn’t have to be. By investing in the right home backup generator and properly sizing it for your needs, you can stay in control no matter what the forecast says.
Since 2001, we’ve helped countless Texas households find electricity plans that fit their homes, their budgets, and their backup power needs. Whether you're prepping for hurricane season or just want to stay ready year-round, we’re here to help.
Explore flexible, reliable electricity plans today and stay powered through every season.
