Discover What Will a 700-Watt Generator Run during Power Outages?

Curious minds often ponder the possibilities that unfold with a 700-watt generator at their disposal. Imagine the freedom to power essential gadgets and create a haven of comfort during unexpected outages.

In a world where electricity is the lifeblood of our daily routines, a compact powerhouse like the 700-watt generator becomes a beacon of resilience. From charging devices to keeping the lights on, this versatile companion promises more than meets the eye. Let’s embark on a journey where convenience meets capability, exploring what will a 700-watt generator run seamlessly.

Main Highlights

• Prioritize power usage and avoid overloading the generator to maximize efficiency.
• Implement energy-saving measures and invest in energy-efficient equipment.
• Regular maintenance is crucial for improved performance, fuel efficiency, and longevity of the generator.
• Ensure safety by following manufacturer’s instructions, proper setup, and using appropriate extension cords and grounding techniques.

What is Generator Wattage?

In essence, wattage refers to the amount of electrical power a generator can produce, typically measured in watts (W) or kilowatts (kW). This key metric determines the capability of a generator to run various appliances and devices.

Generators come in a range of sizes, each with a different wattage capacity. It’s essential to assess your power requirements before choosing a generator. For instance, small portable generators may offer around 1,000 to 5,000 watts, suitable for powering basic household appliances during an outage. On the other hand, larger standby generators for homes or businesses can provide tens of thousands of watts, ensuring continuous power for a broader range of equipment.

Generator wattage directly correlates with the number and types of appliances a generator can support simultaneously. Knowing your power needs and the wattage requirements of your devices is critical for preventing overloading, ensuring a reliable power supply, and maximizing the efficiency of your generator.

In summary, when exploring generators, pay close attention to the wattage rating, matching it with your specific power demands to guarantee a seamless and reliable electrical supply.

What Will A 700-Watt Generator Run?

A 700-watt generator is versatile and can efficiently power a range of appliances and devices, including:

• Lighting: Various light bulbs, outdoor light strings, and ceiling fans.
• Home Appliances: Humidifiers, electric drills, box fans, microwaves, food processors, and small kitchen appliances.
• Entertainment and Electronics: Radios, CD/DVD players, gaming consoles, TVs, and stereo systems.
• Computers and Accessories: Desktop computers, monitors, laptops, and printers.
• Miscellaneous: Cell phone chargers, inflator pumps, mixers, and sewing machines.

It can run multiple appliances simultaneously as long as the total wattage does not exceed 700. Note that this generator is not suitable for high-power devices like air conditioners or large refrigerators with compressors.

Detail Breakdown of Electronics that Can be Run on 700-Watt Generator

A 700-watt generator can run any or these electronics. It is worth mentioning that you can use more than one appliance at a time too provided that the combined wattage comes out to be less than 700 watts.

• Lighting:
  • Light bulb – 60 Watt: With a running wattage of 60 and a starting wattage of 60, a 700-watt generator easily powers standard 60-watt light bulbs.
  • Light bulb – 70 Watts: Illuminate your space with 70-watt light bulbs, requiring 75 running watts and 75 starting watts.
  • Quartz halogen work light – 300: Ideal for task lighting, this 300-watt quartz halogen work light consumes 300 running watts and 300 starting watts.
  • Quartz halogen work light – 500: For more substantial illumination needs, a 500-watt quartz halogen work light operates with 500 running watts and 500 starting watts.
  • Box fan – 20”: Keep cool with a 20-inch box fan, using 200 running watts and 200 starting watts.
  • Outdoor light string: Decorate your outdoor space with a light string, utilizing 250 running watts and 250 starting watts.
  • 52” ceiling fan (high speed): Enjoy a breeze from a 52-inch ceiling fan, requiring 90 running watts and 90 starting watts.
  • 48” ceiling fan (high speed): For a slightly smaller space, a 48-inch ceiling fan uses 75 running watts and 75 starting watts.
  • 36” ceiling fan (high speed): Opt for a 36-inch ceiling fan with 55 running watts and 55 starting watts.
  • Clock radio: Keep time and tune in using a clock radio, requiring 4 running watts and 4 starting watts.
• Home Appliances:
  • Humidifier – 13 Gal: Maintain comfortable humidity levels with a 13-gallon humidifier, utilizing 175 running watts and 175 starting watts.
  • Electric drill – 3/8”, 4 amps: Power through tasks with a 4-amp electric drill, requiring 440 running watts and 600 starting watts.
  • Box fan – 20”: Circulate air efficiently with a 20-inch box fan, using 200 running watts and 200 starting watts.
  • Microwave oven – 625 Watts: Prepare quick meals using a 625-watt microwave, requiring 625 running watts and 625 starting watts.
  • Food processor: Process ingredients easily with a food processor, utilizing 400 running watts and 400 starting watts.
  • Electric can opener: Simplify kitchen tasks with an electric can opener, using 168 running watts and 168 starting watts.
  • Security system: Keep your surroundings safe with a security system, requiring 500 running watts and 500 starting watts.
  • Fax machine: Stay connected with a fax machine, using 65 running watts and 65 starting watts.
  • Inkjet printer: Print documents with an inkjet printer, utilizing 80 running watts and 80 starting watts.
  • Inflator pump: Inflate items effortlessly with a pump, using 50 running watts and 150 starting watts.
  • Electric space heater (low): Stay warm with a low-setting electric space heater, using 600 running watts and 600 starting watts.
  • Waterbed heater (10 hours per day): Keep your waterbed cozy with a heater, using 450 running watts.
  • Refrigerator (compressor): Ensure your perishables stay cool with a refrigerator, requiring 700 running watts and 700 starting watts.
  • Refrigerator (average): For a standard refrigerator, use 160 running watts and 160 starting watts.
  • Trash compactor: Manage waste efficiently with a trash compactor, using 400 running watts and 400 starting watts.
  • Sewing machine: Pursue your sewing projects with a sewing machine, utilizing 75 running watts and 75 starting watts.
• Entertainment and Electronics:
  • AM/FM radio: Stay entertained and informed with an AM/FM radio, using 100 running watts and 100 starting watts.
  • CD/DVD player: Enjoy your favorite music and movies with a CD/DVD player, utilizing 100 running watts and 100 starting watts.
  • VCR: Watch your favorite tapes with a VCR, requiring 100 running watts and 100 starting watts.
  • Stereo receiver: Enhance your audio experience with a stereo receiver, requiring 450 running watts and 450 starting watts.
  • Color N – 27″: Enjoy vivid visuals on a 27-inch color TV, requiring 500 running watts and 500 starting watts.
  • PlayStation, Xbox, Game Cube: Engage in gaming sessions with consoles, using 40 running watts and 40 starting watts.
  • 50-56″ plasma TV: Immerse yourself in large-screen entertainment, requiring 340 running watts and 340 starting watts.
  • 50-56″ LCD TV: Experience high-quality visuals with an LCD TV, utilizing 260 running watts and 260 starting watts.
  • 50-56″ DLP TV: Enjoy sharp images with a DLP TV, requiring 170 running watts and 170 starting watts.
  • 42” plasma TV: Opt for a 42-inch plasma TV, using 270 running watts and 270 starting watts.
  • 42” LCD TV: Enjoy crisp visuals with a 42-inch LCD TV, requiring 210 running watts and 210 starting watts.
  • 32” LCD TV: For a smaller space, a 32-inch LCD TV requires 125 running watts and 125 starting watts.
  • 19” CRT TV: Use a 19-inch CRT TV with 90 running watts and 90 starting watts.
  • Xbox 360: Game with an Xbox 360, requiring 165 running watts and 165 starting watts.
  • Xbox: Enjoy gaming with an Xbox, using 70 running watts and 70 starting watts.
  • PS2: Play games on a PS2, requiring 30 running watts and 30 starting watts.
• Computers and Accessories:
  • Desktop computer (17” CRT monitor): Utilize a desktop computer with a 17-inch CRT monitor, requiring 500 running watts and 500 starting watts.
  • Desktop computer (sleep mode): Save power with a desktop computer in sleep mode, using 20 running watts and 20 starting watts.
  • 17” CRT monitor: Operate a 17-inch CRT monitor with 90 running watts and 90 starting watts.
  • 17” LCD monitor: Experience energy efficiency with a 17-inch LCD monitor, requiring 40 running watts and 40 starting watts.
  • Laptop computer: Stay productive on a laptop computer, using 45 running watts and 45 starting watts.
• Miscellaneous:
  • Cell phone battery charger: Keep your devices powered with a cell phone charger, requiring 25 running watts and 25 starting watts.
  • Inflator pump: Inflate items with ease using a pump, utilizing 50 running watts and 150 starting watts.
  • Mixer: Prepare culinary delights with a mixer, requiring 225 running watts and 225 starting watts.
  • Sewing machine: Engage in sewing projects with a sewing machine, using 75 running watts and 75 starting watts.

Uses of a 700-Watt Generator

Following are some of the practical uses of a 700-watt generator:

Versatile Lighting Options

A 700-watt generator proves invaluable for illuminating your space during power outages or outdoor events. From standard light bulbs to energy-efficient LEDs, you can keep your surroundings well-lit. Additionally, it efficiently powers quartz halogen work lights, providing ample illumination for various tasks.

Practical Home Appliance Support

Run essential home appliances with ease. From operating a 625-watt microwave for quick meals to powering a compact refrigerator or even a sewing machine, the 700-watt generator ensures your household can function smoothly during power interruptions. It’s versatile enough to handle kitchen gadgets, climate control devices, and more.

Entertainment and Electronics

Keep boredom at bay during power outages by running entertainment and electronic devices. From powering your gaming consoles like PlayStation, Xbox, or Game Cube to ensuring your favorite shows on a 50-56” plasma TV stay on, the generator offers entertainment options for the entire family.

Efficient Computer and Office Device Operation

Whether you’re working from home or need to keep communication devices operational, a 700-watt generator has you covered. Power your desktop computer, monitor, printer, and other office essentials, ensuring you stay connected even during unexpected power disruptions.

Cooling and Ventilation Solutions

Maintain comfort with the generator’s ability to power fans, including ceiling fans and box fans. Additionally, it can run smaller cooling devices like an evaporative cooler, ensuring a comfortable environment in various settings.

Emergency Preparedness and Medical Devices

In emergency situations, the generator can be a lifeline. It’s capable of powering medical devices such as a CPAP machine or a nebulizer, ensuring individuals with specific medical needs have access to crucial equipment during power outages.

Outdoor and Recreational Applications

Take the generator on your camping trips or outdoor events. Power outdoor lights, electric grills, and other camping gear to enhance your outdoor experience. The generator’s versatility extends beyond the home, making it a reliable companion for various recreational activities.

Energy-Efficient Usage

One of the advantages of a 700-watt generator is its ability to efficiently handle a mix of appliances and devices. Remember that the total wattage should not exceed 700, but the flexibility to power multiple low to moderately powered devices makes it an energy-efficient choice for a range of situations.

In conclusion, the uses of a 700-watt generator are diverse and extend across various aspects of daily life, from ensuring basic lighting and home appliance functionality to supporting entertainment and outdoor activities. Its compact size and versatility make it a practical solution for both planned and unexpected power needs.

How to Choose the Right Generator for Your Needs?

When selecting a generator, it’s crucial to assess your power needs comprehensively. This involves identifying the essential appliances and devices you intend to power during an outage or in an off-grid setting.

Calculate Your Wattage Requirements

Determine the wattage requirements of each device you plan to connect to the generator. Check the labels or user manuals for the running and starting wattage. Make a list and add up these values to get an estimate of your total power needs.

Consider Start-Up Surges

Keep in mind that some appliances, particularly those with motors, have a higher starting wattage than their running wattage. This surge is temporary but needs to be accommodated by the generator’s capacity.

Generator Size and Type

Choose a generator size that not only meets your current needs but also allows for potential future expansion. Consider whether a portable generator or a standby generator suits your requirements better. Portable generators offer flexibility, while standby generators provide automatic backup power.

Fuel Type and Runtime

Select a generator based on the available fuel types – gasoline, propane, or diesel. Consider the availability and convenience of the chosen fuel. Additionally, assess the generator’s runtime on a full tank, ensuring it meets your expected duration of use.

Noise Level

Evaluate the noise level of the generator, especially if you plan to use it in residential areas. Generators with lower decibel ratings are generally quieter and more suitable for environments where noise is a concern.

Portability and Mobility

For those needing a generator for various locations or outdoor activities, portability is key. Look for features such as handles and wheels for easy transport.

Safety Features

Prioritize generators with essential safety features such as overload protection, low-oil shutoff, and GFCI outlets. These features enhance the safety of both the generator and connected devices.

Budget Considerations

While it’s important to find a generator that meets your needs, consider your budget. Balance your requirements with the available budget to ensure a cost-effective and practical solution.

Read User Reviews

Before finalizing your decision, read user reviews and testimonials. Real-world experiences can provide valuable insights into the reliability, performance, and user-friendliness of a specific generator model.

Consultation with Experts

If you’re uncertain about your power requirements or the right generator for your needs, seek advice from professionals. Consulting with experts in the field can help you make an informed decision based on your specific circumstances.

Thus, choosing the right generator involves a thorough understanding of your power needs, careful consideration of generator features, and staying within your budget. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that the generator you select is a reliable and efficient power source for your unique requirements.

If interested you can read about what can you run on a 2000 watt generator or a 3000-3500 watt generator.

Generator Maintenance Tips

Ensuring your generator runs smoothly is crucial for uninterrupted power supply. Follow these generator maintenance tips to keep your equipment in optimal condition.

1. Regular Inspections:
   • Perform monthly visual inspections to spot any leaks, loose connections, or worn-out parts.
   • Check the fuel and oil levels to guarantee proper functionality.
2. Oil Changes:
   • Change the oil after every 100 hours of operation to prevent engine damage.
   • Use the manufacturer-recommended oil type and viscosity for optimal performance.
3. Air Filter Checks:
   • Inspect the air filter regularly, and replace it if it’s dirty or clogged.
   • A clean air filter ensures efficient combustion and fuel consumption.
4. Battery Care:
   • Keep the generator battery terminals clean and corrosion-free to ensure a reliable start.
   • Test the battery periodically and replace it if it shows signs of weakness.
5. Cooling System Maintenance:
   • Check the coolant level and top it up as needed to prevent overheating.
   • Clean the radiator and cooling fins to maintain efficient heat dissipation.
6. Run the Generator Regularly:
   • Operate the generator at least once a month with a load to prevent fuel system issues.
   • This helps keep the engine and various components in good working order.
7. Store Fuel Properly:
   • Use clean and stabilized fuel to prevent carburetor clogs and fuel system problems.
   • Rotate stored fuel to ensure freshness and avoid engine issues.
8. Professional Servicing:
   • Schedule annual professional maintenance to address potential problems and extend the generator’s lifespan.
   • Professional technicians can conduct in-depth inspections and address issues you might overlook.

By adhering to these generator maintenance tips, you’ll enhance the longevity and reliability of your power source, ensuring it’s ready when you need it most.

Generator Safety Tips

Power outages can happen unexpectedly, making generators a valuable asset. However, ensuring their safe use is crucial. Here are essential tips to keep in mind:

• Location Matters: Place your generator in a well-ventilated area, ideally outdoors, to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
• Read the Manual: Familiarize yourself with your generator’s manual for proper operation and maintenance instructions.
• Fuel Storage: Store generator fuel in a cool, well-ventilated place, away from potential ignition sources.
• Regular Inspections: Conduct routine checks for fuel leaks, loose connections, and any signs of wear on cables.
• Grounding: Properly ground your generator to minimize the risk of electrical shocks and ensure safe operation.
• Keep it Dry: Protect your generator from the elements by using a generator tent or covering during rainy conditions.
• Load Management: Avoid overloading your generator by calculating the total wattage of connected devices.
• Exhaust Direction: Position the generator’s exhaust away from windows and doors to prevent fumes from entering enclosed spaces.
• Cooling Time: Allow the generator to cool down before refueling to prevent accidents and ensure safe handling.

Remember, prioritizing safety when using generators is essential for both your well-being and the longevity of the equipment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a 700-watt generator is a true powerhouse in a compact package, offering versatility and convenience in a multitude of situations. From keeping essential devices running during outdoor adventures to serving as a lifeline during power outages, this generator proves to be an indispensable asset. Its capacity to power lights, fans, electronics, and small appliances makes it a reliable choice for various applications.

As you embrace the possibilities of a 700-watt generator, let this guide be your trusted resource, guiding you towards optimizing its potential. Experience the convenience and peace of mind that come with harnessing the power of a 700-watt generator in your everyday life.

References

1. Electrical generators for large wind turbine: Trends and challenges
2. Bio-inspired water-driven electricity generators: From fundamental mechanisms to practical applications
3. Power electronic drives, controls, and electric generators for large wind turbines–an overview
4. Stabilization of two electricity generators

Frequently Asked Questions