What Size Generator Do I Need to Run a Refrigerator?

The compressor start, not the steady draw, is the figure that picks the generator.

Quick answer: Honda lists an Energy Star fridge at 132–192 running watts and 1,200 starting watts, and Champion lists a fridge at 150–400 running watts and 800–1,200 starting watts. Covering both charts takes a running rating that clears 400 W and a starting rating that clears 1,200 W. A Honda EU2200i is rated 1,800 W with a 2,200 W maximum, which covers that start and those running watts.

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Running and starting watts

Load	Running watts	Starting watts	Source
Energy Star fridge / freezer	132–192	1,200	Honda
Fridge	150–400	800–1,200	Champion

Honda's wattage guide lists starting watts, then running watts. Champion's chart lists running watts, then starting watts. This table puts every figure in the Running and Starting columns. Not listed means that source does not give a separate starting figure.

How to size it

Add the running watts of every load that will be on together, then add the single highest starting surge (Generac; Honda). Generac notes that starting watts are often 2–3 times running watts, and that standby units should get a dealer survey.

Use the higher running figure while the compressor is on, then add the 1,200 W start once. A second appliance only changes the size if its own start is higher than that 1,200 W figure or its running watts push the total past the generator rating you picked.

Check a full load list on the generator size calculator.

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Run the generator outdoors only, 20 ft from the house (CPSC).

FAQ

Can a Honda EU2200i run a refrigerator?

Yes on these charts. The highest fridge start listed is 1,200 W, and the highest running figure is 400 W. The EU2200i is rated 1,800 W with a 2,200 W maximum.

Why do the Honda and Champion fridge figures differ?

They publish different ranges. Honda is 132–192 W running and 1,200 W starting for an Energy Star fridge or freezer. Champion is 150–400 W running and 800–1,200 W starting. Size to the higher number in each column.

Do I add a surge on top of the chart?

No. Generac says starting watts are often 2–3 times running watts, and the charts already give the start. Use the listed start, not a second multiplier.

What changes if a freezer is running too?

Add the freezer's running watts, then keep only the highest start. On these charts that start is still 1,200 W. The combined question has its own page.