Getting Started |
Before buying a generator there are a number of things to consider. Using this tutorial, you can get the basics down and determine your power needs to be sure your generator best suits your needs. |
Packages |
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Our three generator packages combine
our portable generators, a manual transfer switch, and ABC's quality service
packages so you can conveniently purchase everything you need all for
one price. |
Free shipping |
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Available on our portable generators to your nearest freight station. Only applicable in the lower 48 United States. Be sure to review our shipping policy.
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How do you even begin to shop for a generator?
Shopping for a generator can be tricky so it is important to educate yourself on some of the basics before getting started. Standby generators are installed in the home with a separate power transfer switch. If you home loses power, the generator will automatically come on and power the essential appliances in your home. Portable generators run on gasoline and therefore need to be stored in a place safe from emissions (a garage or outside). Portable generator users then need to run extension cords to the various appliances they want to use in the home. A summary of some basic features can be found in the table below.
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Portables |
Standbys |
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 |
Auto Power Transfer |
NO |
YES |
Refueling |
YES |
NO |
Noise Level |
QUIET |
QUIETER |
Extension Cords |
YES |
NO |
Self-Test |
NO |
YES |
Permanently Mounted |
NO |
YES |
Diagnostic Panel |
NO |
YES |
How Much
Power Do I Need?
Now you need to determine your power needs. Most essential appliances can be powered with approximately 5,000 to 8,000 watts of power. The table below lists the appliances and their common power requirements. You should check your own appliances to determine the exact power needs of your home or business.
Select the items you wish to power at the same time. Add the TYPICAL WATTAGE of the items you require. Then, add the surge wattage of the item with the HIGHEST NUMBER to your total TYPICAL WATTAGE. This is the minimum wattage you will need in order to operate these items. A generator specialist from ABC can assist you in determining the exact wattage necessary for your appliances.
Device |
Typical Wattage |
Surge Wattage |
Light Bulb |
60 |
60 |
Fan |
75 |
150 |
Small black/white television |
100 |
150 |
Color television |
300 |
400 |
Home computer and monitor |
400 |
600 |
Electric Blanket |
400 |
400 |
Garage Door Opener |
500 |
1,500 |
Microwave Oven |
750 |
1,000 |
Furnace Fan |
750 |
1,500 |
Sump Pump |
800 |
1,200 |
Refrigerator |
1,200 |
2,400 |
Hair Dryer |
1,250 |
1,250 |
Coffee Maker (Drip) |
1,500 |
1,500 |
Well Pump |
2,400 |
3,600 |
Electric Water Heater |
4,500 |
4,500 |
Whole-house A/C or heat pump |
15,000 |
30,000 |
Now do you have a number in your head of how much power you need and what type of generator you might want? Click on an image below to begin shopping.

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