Generator Sizing Chart for Lake‑Effect Storms (Rochester & Buffalo Edition) — Buyer’s Guide
Note: Hamburg Honda does not perform home generator installations. This guide helps Rochester & Buffalo homeowners choose the right size portable or standby generator and know what to ask a licensed electrician.
Lake‑effect storms can knock out power fast in Rochester and Monroe County. Picking the right generator size means keeping heat on, food cold, and phones charged—without overspending. Use this sizing guide, then consult a licensed electrician for any permanent hookup.
Why Sizing Matters
- Too small: Trips breakers, struggles with motor startups, shortens generator life.
- Too big: Wastes fuel, costs more up front, louder/heavier than you need.
- Right size: Handles startup surges, powers essentials safely, better runtime per gallon.
Quick Load Estimates (Typical Rochester & Buffalo Home)
| Appliance/Equipment | Starting Watts | Running Watts |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator/Freezer | 1200 | 600 |
| Furnace Fan (gas/oil) | 2000 | 800 |
| Sump Pump | 2000 | 800 |
| Lights (6 LED) | 0 | 300 |
| Wi‑Fi + Phone Charging | 0 | 100 |
| Well Pump (if applicable) | 3500 | 1000 |
Example totals: ~2,800 running watts, ~4,500 starting watts (peaks). Your home may vary—list your own loads and add 15–20% headroom.
What Size Do Most Rochester Homes Need?
- 3,500–4,500 W portable: Fridge, furnace fan, lights, chargers.
- 6,500–7,500 W portable: Above + sump or well pump, microwave, TV.
- 9,000–12,000 W portable/standby: Whole‑home essentials and multiple motor loads.
Fuel & Runtime Tips for Lake‑Effect Weather
- Gasoline: Easy to find; stabilize fuel for storage; store safely outside the living space.
- Propane: Cleaner burn, long‑term storage, great for standby; needs tanks and regulator.
- Natural Gas (standby): Unlimited supply if service is active; requires licensed install.
- Runtime: Look for eco‑throttle modes and larger fuel tanks; cold‑rated oil helps starting.
Safe Use & Hookup (Read This!)
- Never backfeed a home through a dryer outlet or improvised cord—this can kill a utility worker or destroy appliances.
- Portable to key circuits: Use a proper transfer switch or interlock installed by a licensed electrician.
- CO safety: Run the generator outdoors, away from doors/windows; use CO detectors inside.
- Extension cords: Use heavy‑gauge outdoor cords sized for the load/length.
Buying Checklist (Bring This to the Store)
- Your wattage list (running + starting) with 15–20% headroom.
- Desired fuel type (gas, propane, dual‑fuel, natural gas for standby).
- Outlets you need (e.g., L14‑30 for transfer switch; 20A household; 30A RV).
- Cold‑weather kit: cold‑rated oil, battery maintainer (if electric start), storage cover.
- Noise & weight limits: will you move it solo? Consider wheel kits and dB ratings.
Sample Sizing Scenarios
- Townhome (gas heat): 3,500–4,500 W portable for essentials (fridge, furnace fan, lights, chargers).
- Single‑family with sump: 6,500–7,500 W portable to handle fridge + furnace + sump surges.
- Small homestead with well: 7,500–9,500 W minimum (well pumps have high start‑up loads).
FAQs
Do you install home generators? No—Hamburg Honda does not perform installations. For transfer switches or standby units, hire a licensed electrician.
Can I run a furnace and a fridge together? Yes—if the generator is sized correctly and circuits are correctly wired via a transfer switch.
Is dual‑fuel worth it? Often, yes. Propane stores well for emergencies; gas is easy to find. Dual‑fuel gives flexibility during long outages.
Need Help Choosing a Generator?
Stop by or call—we’ll help you match wattage, fuel, and features to your situation and the realities of Rochester winters. We can also point you toward electricians for proper transfer‑switch installs.