How to use this chart
This chart is a transcription of selected values from Champion Power Equipment’s published wattage chart, checked on October 4, 2026. Champion describes these as common-appliance estimates; they are not data for a specific make/model, not independent measurements, and not a guarantee that a generator will start the load.
- Find each appliance’s manufacturer nameplate and owner’s manual. Record voltage, running input, amps, motor-start information, and any model-specific instructions.
- List only the loads expected to run at the same time. Note loads that a transfer system or approved load-management device will prevent from running together.
- Ask a qualified electrician to evaluate the continuous load, motor-start conditions, generator fuel-specific ratings, transfer equipment, and any site derating.
Do not take a convenient point in these ranges as an “actual” value. If the exact nameplate or manual is unavailable, the model-specific load is unknown; a generic chart cannot fill that gap.
Cooling and HVAC
| Appliance reference | Running watts | Starting watts listed by source |
|---|---|---|
| Central air conditioner, 2 ton | 2,000–2,500 W | 3,500–4,500 W |
| Central air conditioner, 3 ton | 3,000–3,500 W | 5,000–6,000 W |
| Central air conditioner, 4 ton | 4,000–5,000 W | 6,500–8,000 W |
| Window air conditioner, 5,000 BTU | 450–600 W | 900–1,200 W |
| Window air conditioner, 10,000 BTU | 900–1,200 W | 1,800–2,400 W |
| Furnace fan, 1/2 HP | 300–800 W | 800–1,600 W |
| Space heater | 750–1,500 W | No separate starting range listed in the cited chart |
Source for every row: Champion Power Equipment’s chart. Actual appliances may differ substantially.
Pumps and water
| Appliance reference | Running watts | Starting watts listed by source |
|---|---|---|
| Electric water heater | 3,000–4,500 W | No separate starting range listed in the cited chart |
| Well pump, 1/2 HP | 750–1,000 W | 1,500–2,000 W |
| Well pump, 1 HP | 1,000–2,000 W | 2,000–4,000 W |
| Sump pump, 1/3 HP | 500–800 W | 1,000–1,600 W |
| Sump pump, 1/2 HP | 800–1,050 W | 1,300–2,150 W |
Source for every row: Champion Power Equipment’s chart. Actual appliances may differ substantially.
Kitchen and laundry
| Appliance reference | Running watts | Starting watts listed by source |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 150–400 W | 800–1,200 W |
| Freezer | 100–500 W | 500–1,000 W |
| Microwave | 600–1,200 W | No separate starting range listed in the cited chart |
| Dishwasher | 1,200–2,400 W | No separate starting range listed in the cited chart |
| Electric range, one burner | 1,200–2,400 W | No separate starting range listed in the cited chart |
| Washing machine | 500–1,000 W | 1,000–2,300 W |
| Electric dryer | 4,000–6,000 W | No separate starting range listed in the cited chart |
Source for every row: Champion Power Equipment’s chart. Actual appliances may differ substantially.
Lighting, electronics, and medical devices
| Appliance reference | Running watts | Starting watts listed by source |
|---|---|---|
| Ceiling fan | 15–75 W | No separate starting range listed in the cited chart |
| Television, 32–55 in | 80–400 W | No separate starting range listed in the cited chart |
| LED light bulb (each) | 8–15 W | No separate starting range listed in the cited chart |
| Phone or laptop charger | 20–100 W | No separate starting range listed in the cited chart |
| Window fan | 50–200 W | No separate starting range listed in the cited chart |
| Home security system | 15–40 W | No separate starting range listed in the cited chart |
| Internet router and modem | 10–20 W | No separate starting range listed in the cited chart |
| CPAP, without heated humidifier | 30–60 W | No separate starting range listed in the cited chart |
| CPAP, with heated humidifier | 60–120 W | No separate starting range listed in the cited chart |
Source for every row: Champion Power Equipment’s chart. Actual appliances may differ substantially.
Printable load worksheet for a professional discussion
This static worksheet is for collecting information; it does not calculate a generator size. Use manufacturer labels/manuals, not the example ranges above.
| Load / appliance | Exact make/model | Nameplate/manual data | Priority / can be delayed? |
|---|---|---|---|
Take this list and photographs of equipment nameplates to a qualified local electrician or generator installer. The final design also depends on transfer equipment, fuel availability and pressure, local requirements, and the exact generator rating on the fuel to be used.