While Vancouver isn’t exactly known for intense storm seasons, we’ve all experienced those gusty nights where—out of nowhere—the power goes out. Usually, we light a few candles, dig out the flashlights, and hope the fridge stays cold long enough. But for some, this lack of power can cause serious issues—medical equipment that needs constant electricity, work-from-home setups disrupted mid-meeting or sump pumps that fail and lead to flooding. Many Vancouver homeowners are starting to realize that a generator can turn these potential problems into a non-issue.
Generators are essential backup power sources that kick in when your regular electrical service is interrupted—whether due to storms, blackouts, or other disruptions. They’re also a smart investment in areas where grid power can be unreliable or even unavailable. Before you run out and buy one, it’s important to get the sizing right. Too small, and it won’t support your needs; too large, and you’re overspending on unnecessary capacity.
The expert electricians here at AJ’s break down why the right generator size for your Vancouver home is important and how to choose one.
Why Generator Size Matters
Generators work by converting fuel—like gas, propane, or diesel—into electrical power. However, not all generators are created equal. The size of a generator refers to its power output, measured in watts. Your home’s energy usage determines what size you need.
Getting the right size means your essential appliances and systems can run smoothly during an outage without overloading the generator or leaving you in the dark.
Start With What Matters Most
Every home is different, but most homeowners share a few priorities when the power goes out: keeping food from spoiling, staying warm (or cool), and ensuring basic lighting and communication tools stay operational.
Consider which of these you’d want to power:
- Kitchen appliances like the fridge and freezer
- Lighting in key rooms
- Heating systems, especially during the winter months
- Sump or well pumps to prevent basement flooding or maintain water access
- Wi-Fi routers or charging stations for communication
- Medical equipment that must remain powered
If you work from home you may also need enough power to support a home office setup.
Know Your Wattage Requirements
Each appliance in your home has a wattage requirement. Some use a steady amount of power (called running watts), while others need a temporary power boost to start up (called surge watts).
Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Refrigerator: ~600 watts
- Air Conditioner: ~1,000 watts (but can surge to 2,000+ at startup)
- Lights: ~60 watts per bulb
- Laptop/Router: 50 to 200 watts
- Electric furnace or baseboard heating: 3,000 to 5,000 watts (may require a larger generator or a transfer switch system)
A typical Vancouver home that wants to run essential systems will likely need between 5,000 and 7,000 watts. For more demanding setups—or homes with larger appliances or heating systems—a 6,500-watt to 8,000-watt generator is often the sweet spot.
Add a Safety Margin
Once you’ve tallied up your must-haves, it’s important to add about 20% more wattage to your estimate. This buffer helps account for unexpected energy needs, appliances that start simultaneously, and future upgrades.
For example, if your essential appliances total 5,000 watts, aim for a generator that delivers at least 6,000 to 6,500 watts. That way, you’re covered if your sump pump and air conditioner happen to kick in at the same time.
Don’t Forget About Surge Wattage
Surge wattage can be easy to overlook, but it’s critical. Appliances like air conditioners, sump pumps, and refrigerators use a surge of electricity when they first start. Your generator needs to handle that short spike in demand—or it may trip, shut down, or fail to power the appliance altogether.
Always factor in the starting watts of these devices and make sure the generator you choose is rated for both running and surge capacity.
Portable vs. Standby Generators
Once you’ve figured out your wattage needs, the next step is choosing the type of generator:
- Portable generators are more budget-friendly and versatile. They typically range from 3,000 to 8,500 watts and are great for temporary, manual use during outages. However, they require fuel and need to be manually connected or refuelled.
- Standby generators are installed permanently and connect directly to your home’s electrical system. They turn on automatically during an outage and can power an entire home or specific circuits. These are best for homeowners who want a seamless, hands-off solution, especially if your power goes out regularly or for extended periods.
Choosing the right generator size for your Vancouver home is all about planning ahead. By calculating your wattage needs carefully—and adding a margin for safety—you’ll be better prepared for whatever our West Coast weather throws your way. Whether it’s a passing storm or a longer-term outage, the right generator can keep your home safe, warm, and connected.
Still not sure which size is right for you or how to find the wattage of your appliances? Contact us today for personalized advice based on your home’s layout and energy needs. With over 22 years of experience serving the Lower Mainland, our electricians know a thing or two about Vancouver storms.
