What can a 3,500-watt generator run?

Typical 3500-watt generator capabilities

A 3,500-watt generator is popular because it can cover the basics without being too heavy, loud, or expensive. In many cases, it's enough to keep food cold, lights on, and devices charged, as long as you manage what's running at the same time.

Here are common loads a 3,500-watt generator can usually handle (not all at once):

• Refrigerator or freezer (600–1,200W while running, more at startup).
• Several LED or CFL light circuits (5–60W each).
• Internet modem/router, phone & laptop chargers, and a TV.
• A microwave (800–1,500W) in short bursts.
• A small window A/C unit or space heater (typically 500–1,500W).

The key is managing startup surges. Motors like fridges, pumps, and A/C units can momentarily draw 2–3x their running wattage. Many 3,500W generators have surge ratings around 4,000W specifically to handle this.

Example load plans for a 3,500W generator

Here are a few sample ways you might use a 3,500W generator during an outage:

• Essentials-only plan: fridge or freezer, basic lights, internet, and small devices. This keeps wattage low and fuel usage modest.
• Comfort plan: fridge, lights, internet, TV, and a small window A/C or space heater. You may need to turn the A/C or heater off when using a microwave or other big load.
• RV/camping plan: RV A/C (a single modest unit), interior lights, water pump, and outlets for devices — often well within a 3,500W generator's capability.

When a 3,500W generator might be too small

You may want to step up to a 5,000W or larger unit if:

• You want to run multiple large loads at once (like a well pump plus A/C plus microwave).
• Your home has a larger central A/C with high startup draw.
• You're planning to power many circuits on a transfer switch and want extra margin so you don't constantly think about what's turned on.