What Size Generator Do I Need to Run a Washing Machine?

Use the higher start on the two charts, then see whether one inverter's maximum covers it.

Quick answer: Honda lists an automatic washer at 1,200 running watts and 1,200 starting watts, and Champion lists a washing machine at 500–1,000 running watts and 1,000–2,300 starting watts. Covering both takes a running rating that clears 1,200 W and a starting rating that clears 2,300 W. A Honda EU2200i maximum of 2,200 W is just under that 2,300 W start, while two EU2200i units in parallel reach up to 4,400 W and the Champion manual's 6,250 W starting rating also covers it.

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Running and starting watts

Load	Running watts	Starting watts	Source
Automatic washer	1,200	1,200	Honda
Washing machine	500–1,000	1,000–2,300	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.

The washer motor is the surge. An electric dryer on the same circuit plan is a different problem: Honda lists it at 5,400 W running. Honda notes that an inverter converts AC to DC and back to AC, which gives lower THD than a conventional generator that runs at full RPM, which matters if the washer's controls are electronic.

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 washing machine?

Honda's own washer row is 1,200 W running and starting, under the 1,800 W rated output. Champion's upper start is 2,300 W, which is over the 2,200 W maximum.

What running watts should I use?

1,200 W covers Honda and sits above Champion's 500–1,000 W running range.

Can the washer and an electric dryer run together?

The dryer alone is 5,400 W running and 6,750 W starting at 240 V. Add the washer only after the dryer figure is covered.

Does Champion list a start above the running watts?

Yes. Champion lists 1,000–2,300 starting watts against 500–1,000 running watts.