generator set for whole house

Got an 1800 sq ft house with 4 ton a/c, electric range, washer, dryer, microwave and various low draw lights, etc.

What is a good kw number for a "whole house" generator that will, for sure, run the lights and a/c, at least? I'm thinking 15kw would do it, once stuff was online. I'm told to go from the biggest load to the smallest in bringing stuff online.

Reply to
RB
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What's the SEER of the A/C? Divide 48000 by the SEER and it will give you the steady state current requirements in watts.

Note that starting surge for A/C systems can be six times or more the running load. A "hard start" kit will reduce the starting current requirements, so if capacity is a problem then have a hard start kit installed. Don't forget that once the thermostat is satisifed and the A/C shuts off you'll still have all the rest of the load there....and the A/C may not restart unless you shed that load first.

Reply to
Travis Jordan

Your probably going to need a 15kw just to get the a/c started.

15000 watts translates into 62.5 amps.

Musing about

A/C 20 amps running, starting 120 amps, better part of a second at least Oven 40 amps Water heater 25 amps Washer 20 amps Dryer 30 amps

these figures might be a little on the high side except for the washer. When washers go into spin mode they will draw upwards of 18 amps, at least mine will. Your compressor will have a LRA number this can also be used as the starting amps.

There are a ton of variables, some interlocks will help. Make sure that the generator you choose is rated for 100% loading. Most stand-by units are 80% of full load. Then comes the fuel issue.

Reply to
SQLit

What is a hard start kit? A google search showed many for sale, but no explanation of what they are.

Reply to
toller

Not if you want to run the AC! Better consider about 25kw. Greg

Reply to
Greg O

It is a large non-polarized electrolytic capacitor along with a time delay relay, designed to provide an additional current source during the compressor start phase.

Reply to
Travis Jordan

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