Generator wattage chart for common appliances
Knowing rough wattage numbers for common appliances makes it easier to plan generator size and decide what to run at the same time.
This chart gives ballpark running wattage ranges for typical household and RV loads.
Common appliance wattage chart
These are typical ranges, not exact numbers. Always check the labels or manuals for your specific appliances, especially for startup (surge) wattage on motors.
| Appliance | Approx. running watts |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator / freezer | 600–1,200W |
| Chest freezer | 400–900W |
| Microwave | 800–1,500W |
| Coffee maker | 600–1,200W |
| Toaster | 800–1,400W |
| Electric kettle | 1,200–1,800W |
| Window A/C (small) | 500–1,000W |
| Central A/C (3 ton) | 3,000–4,500W+ |
| Gas furnace blower | 400–800W |
| Sump pump | 500–1,000W |
| Well pump | 700–2,000W |
| Television | 50–200W |
| Wi‑Fi router & modem | 10–30W |
| Laptop computer | 50–100W |
| Phone charger | 5–15W |
| LED light bulb | 5–15W |
| Electric clothes dryer | 3,000–5,000W |
| Electric range (one burner) | 1,200–2,000W |
Tip: you can always use the calculators on the GeneratorCalc home page to turn these ideas into rough numbers for your specific generator and situation.