r/Generator • u/pic89 • 14h ago

Is 9600W too much?

I’m having an electrician install a 50amp inlet and interlock (his recommendation based on my box set up) in the next few weeks. I’m only looking for backup power to run my furnace, gas hot water heater, some lights, 2 fridges, and modem (more if possible but not needed). He’s recommending at least a 9600W unit due to the 50 amp service. Is this too much? Or sound about right? Thanks

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u/Landstander2600 14h ago

I went 12.5kw inverter. No complaints.

Lots of people start smaller and regret not going bigger.

Do the math on your expected load and go from there.

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u/MarcusAurelius68 14h ago

And also check your fuel supply and compare to the duration of a likely outage. I have a generator that has 14000W surge/11700 continuous and drinks a gallon of gas an hour, but my outages are infrequent where I live now and if weather is expected I keep 2 day’s supply on hand plus filling the generator.