Should You Repair or Replace Your Old Electrical Panel?
September 22, 2026
- 12116 51st Ave NE, Marysville, WA
- info@sovereignelectricllc.com
- (206) 414-8772
Washington homeowners know that storms, outages, and unpredictable weather can put a sudden strain on their homes. When the power goes out, having the right backup generator can make the difference between staying safe and being left in the dark. But choosing the right generator size isn’t always straightforward. Every home uses power differently, and the wrong size generator can leave you overloaded, underpowered, or dealing with avoidable repairs.
This guide breaks down what homeowners should consider when selecting a generator, how sizing really works, and why working with an experienced electrician ensures your backup system performs exactly the way you need it to.
Generators are sized based on wattage—specifically, how much power they can produce at one time. Every appliance in your home draws a certain amount of electricity. Small electronics like TVs and lamps use only a little, while major systems like HVAC, refrigerators, and well pumps use much more. Choosing a generator starts with understanding two key concepts:
Running wattage – the electricity an appliance needs to operate continuously.
Starting wattage – the temporary power surge required when the appliance first turns on.
Some appliances, like refrigerators and air conditioners, require two to three times more wattage to start than they do while running. If your generator isn’t sized to handle these surges, it will trip, overload, or shut down right when you need it most.
Backup generators generally fall into three categories:
1. Essential-Circuit Generators
These smaller generators cover the basics—lighting, refrigerator, a few outlets, maybe a microwave. They’re cost-effective but won’t run your whole home.
2. Partial-Home Generators
Medium-sized units designed to run essential systems plus some conveniences such as:
Furnace
Water heater
Sump pump
Laundry appliances
They’re a good balance for most homes.
3. Whole-Home Generators
Larger systems that power everything in your home, from HVAC to kitchen appliances to electric vehicle chargers. If you want your home to operate normally during an outage, this is the option for you.
Before choosing a size, think through your priorities. Do you want true comfort and reliability during an outage, or just the essentials to get by?
Most homeowners underestimate how much power their homes actually use. For example:
A refrigerator: 600–800 watts running, 1,200+ watts starting
A well pump: 1,000 watts running, 2,000–3,000 watts starting
Electric range: 2,500+ watts
Central AC: 3,000–5,000 watts running, much more at startup
When you add these together, it becomes clear why professional sizing is important. Too small a generator will strain itself, waste fuel, and wear out early. Too large a generator can be unnecessarily expensive and inefficient.
Backup generators run on natural gas, propane, or diesel. Your fuel type affects:
How long your generator can run
How much power it can deliver
What installation requirements may exist
Natural gas offers unlimited runtime, while propane is ideal for homes without natural gas access. Diesel generators deliver strong power output but require more maintenance.
Choosing the right fuel type ensures your generator can run for hours—or days—without interruption.
Modern homes evolve fast. Maybe you’re planning:
A hot tub
An EV charger
A home office
More outdoor lighting
A future HVAC upgrade
If your electrical demands grow, your generator needs to grow with them. An electrician can help you size a generator with enough capacity for today and tomorrow.
Choosing the wrong generator can create serious problems, including:
Overloaded circuits
Damaged appliances
Shortened generator lifespan
Difficulty starting high-demand equipment
Safety risks from improper installation
A licensed electrician evaluates your entire load calculation, ensures safe transfer switch installation, and confirms compatibility with your electrical panel. This process gives you a reliable, efficient system that you can trust during Washington’s storms.
A backup generator is more than a convenience—it’s a long-term investment in your home’s safety, comfort, and resilience. With the right size system, you can keep your essentials running smoothly, protect your appliances, and maintain peace of mind through every outage.
If you’re considering a new generator or want help determining the right size for your home, Sovereign Electric is here to walk you through every step, from load calculations to full installation.
(206) 414-8772