What size generator do I need to run a fridge?

• <div><p>While the rating will tell you how many watts the refrigerator needs at the peak of its cycle, it requires additional wattage to start. At the bare minimum, you’ll need a 1,500-watt generator to get the fridge up and running after a blackout. A 2,000-watt generator should be sufficient for most home refrigerators.</p></div>

• <div><p>When installed and used correctly, generators are safe to use. The <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/power-out-3-tips-safely-operate-home-generator.htm">most critical generator safety tips</a> to keep in mind are:</p><ul><li><p>Never use a portable generator inside an enclosed space, as the carbon monoxide exhaust it creates is lethal.</p></li><li><p>Never attempt to connect your generator to your home’s electrical panel independently; hire a professional for this dangerous job.</p></li><li><p>Never overload your generator by connecting more appliances than for which it’s rated; you can damage your generator and appliances or even cause a fire.</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

What can I run on different generator sizes?

• <div><p>Here’s what you can run with different wattages and types of generators:</p><p>Portable generator:</p><ul><li><p>2,000 watts can handle a large appliance like a freezer or refrigerator, plus a few smaller items like phones or computer chargers. </p></li><li><p>4,000 watts will keep two large appliances operating and a few smaller devices.</p></li><li><p>8,000 watts should power most essential appliances and other devices, including a sump pump, well pump, or your dishwasher.</p></li></ul><p>Partial to whole-house generator:</p><ul><li><p>20,000 watts and above will make it seem like your home’s power is still on.</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

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Last update on October 05, 2025

Reviewed in October 2022
Ramer Mechanical is the best service provider we have ever known. Harvey Ramer has handled the large and small jobs at our home for more than a decade. Seriously. Five stars!
Ramer Mechanical LLC
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Reviewed in March 2015
This is the third time I used Rittner's Electric and, as always, completely satisfied with everything they did to assure my emergency generator was reliable. Great communication including follow up calls. Very helpful with installation ideas. Location drove up materials cost but that was my...
Rittner's Electric
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Reviewed in October 2018
Vary well, job was finished in a timely fashion, very professional, couldn't ask for better electricians. If you need an electrician these guys are the ones to have. I wouldn't call any other electrician for my electrical needs.
Mid Penn Electrical Services, Inc.
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Reviewed in September 2011
When the company came out for the estimate everything went as planned. I just decided to go a different route. During the estimate they were very thorough in explaining the process and what would happen.
CDS Home Services
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Reviewed in May 2015
They were really super good. They charged me 3 times more but forget it. It’s really reasonable. He’s excellent when he comes to me.
Wilco Electric Inc
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Reviewed in February 2013
We had a really good experience after a bit of a rocky start. Our salesperson was there for us from the first to the last. He stayed in touch, answered all my question (and there were a lot of them) and responded to my calls and email in a very timely fashion. The first day the crew was to...
JK Mechanical
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Reviewed in March 2014
Keith made this an effortless service on my part. He was here when he said he would be, was respectful, personable and professional. I called Leggett and they scheduled the service and called the morning of service to tell me Keith was on his way; He was here on time and explained everything...
Leggett Inc
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Reviewed in November 2014
This was the first time I'd used them and it went really well. There were no issues with scheduling. I'll have them back out soon to do more work on the unit.
Eshenaur & Son, Inc.
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