What Size Generator for Refrigerator?
A refrigerator only needs 100-400W running but has a startup surge of 3x or more. A 2000W generator comfortably handles most refrigerators with room for a few other small loads.
Minimum Size
1000W
bare minimum, tight
Comfortable Size
2000W
recommended
Ideal Size
3000W
room to grow
Total Running Watts
150W
Total Surge/Starting Watts
450W
Generator Sizing Calculator
Additional Custom Load
Running Watts
580W
Surge Watts
1740W
Recommended Generator
2500W+
Includes 25% headroom for reliable operation
Suitable Generator Sizes
Estimated Fuel Usage
* Fuel estimates are approximate. Actual consumption varies by generator model, load, and altitude.
Typical Loads for Refrigerator
| Item | Running Watts | Surge Watts |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Refrigerator | 150W | 450W |
| Large Side-by-Side | 250W | 750W |
| Mini Fridge | 80W | 240W |
| Chest Freezer | 100W | 300W |
| Total | 150W | 450W |
* Surge watts apply to motor loads during startup. Size your generator for worst-case surge scenario.
Generator Sizing Tips
- •Refrigerators cycle on/off, so runtime is only about 8 hours per day
- •A 2000W inverter generator can run fridge + freezer + lights easily
- •Keep fridge and freezer closed during outage to preserve cold
- •Frozen water bottles help maintain temperature during compressor off-cycles
- •Older fridges have higher surge - newer models are more efficient
Key Considerations
- ⚠Food safety requires keeping fridge below 40°F, freezer below 0°F
- ⚠Run generator for 1-2 hours every 4-6 hours during extended outage
- ⚠Modern fridges are more efficient and easier on generators
Alternatives to Consider
- ✓Small inverter generator for quiet operation
- ✓Portable power station (500Wh+) for short outages
- ✓Ice and coolers for very short outages
Frequently Asked Questions
What size generator to run a refrigerator?
A 1000W generator can run most refrigerators, but 2000W is recommended for comfortable headroom and to run a few other items. The startup surge is the limiting factor, not running watts.
Can I run a fridge and freezer on the same generator?
Yes, but don't start them simultaneously. With a 2000W+ generator, you can run both. Just turn one on, wait for the compressor to settle, then turn on the other.
How long will a generator run a refrigerator?
At 150W average (including cycles), a generator using 0.5 gal/hour at 50% load could run a fridge for 24+ hours on 3 gallons. But you don't need to run it constantly - 6-8 hours per day keeps food safe.