What Size Generator Do I Need?

Choosing the Right Size Generator Starts with the Right Questions

When the power goes out, the last thing you want is to find out your generator can’t keep up. Whether you’re protecting your home or keeping your business running, choosing the right generator size is essential for performance, safety, and cost-efficiency.

At Southern Power Generators, we help homeowners and businesses across Atlanta, Decatur, Snellville, and the surrounding areas choose the best generator for their needs. Here’s what you need to know.

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🏡 For Homes: What Do You Want to Power?

Think about which appliances or systems are critical during an outage:

• Refrigerator and freezer
• HVAC system (central or wall unit)
• Lighting and outlets
• Medical devices
• Internet and communications
• Kitchen appliances
• Washer and dryer

If you’re only powering essentials, a 7.5 to 10 kW generator might do the trick. For whole-home backup, especially in homes over 2,000 sq ft with HVAC, consider a 14 to 24 kW generator.

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🏢 For Businesses: Stay Operational When It Matters Most

For small businesses, such as offices or retail stores, a commercial-grade 22–26 kW generator is typically sufficient. Larger facilities with heavy equipment, server rooms, or refrigeration systems will need a more customized solution, potentially involving three-phase power or parallel generators.

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🔍 Consider Square Footage & Load Needs

Here’s a basic guideline to get started:

Home Size	Recommended Generator Size
Up to 1,000 sq ft	7.5 – 10 kW
1,000 – 2,000 sq ft	14 kW
2,000 – 5,000 sq ft	18 – 24 kW
Over 5,000 sq ft	26 kW or larger

Still unsure? We’ll perform a load calculation to make sure the system is perfectly sized for your unique power needs.

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🔋 Fuel Source Impacts Size Too

If you’re using natural gas, capacity may be slightly more consistent. Propane users typically need a 125-gallon or larger tank to support longer run times. Your available fuel source can affect sizing and placement decisions.

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✅ Why Generator Sizing Matters

• Too small = overload risk and system failure
• Too large = unnecessary cost and fuel consumption
• Just right = optimal performance and efficiency

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🛠 We Make It Easy

At Southern Power Generators, we guide you through every step—from consultation to sizing to professional installation. We sell and install Generac and Kohler generators, with tailored options for every budget.

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📞 Ready for Backup Power Peace of Mind?

Contact us today for a free phone consultation and let us help you find the perfect generator for your home or business.

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