Power Prepared guide
How Much Backup Power Does a House Need?
Estimate backup needs from watts, watt-hours, essential loads and desired runtime.
Editorial standard: Seller performance claims are treated as claims unless independently substantiated. Electrical and high-speed rotating equipment can be hazardous.
Step 1: list essential loads
Record each device's running watts and expected hours of use.
Step 2: calculate energy
Multiply watts by hours to estimate watt-hours. Add margin for conversion losses and uncertainty.
Step 3: check peak power
Make sure the inverter or generator can handle simultaneous loads and startup surges. Whole-home loads can be dramatically larger than an essentials-only plan.