How many watts does a refrigerator use
During operation, a refrigerator draws 150 to 400 W and needs 800 to 1,200 W for one second at startup. The smallest portable that can run a refrigerator is 2,000 W.
Running and starting watts: how much power a refrigerator uses
| Load | Running | Starting |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 150 to 400 W | 800 to 1,200 W |
Champion's wattage chart is the source, dated 04-17-26. Your refrigerator's nameplate shows its exact number in watts or amps. To get watts, multiply the amps by 120 V. Use 240 V only for loads on a two-pole breaker, for example a well pump.
Which generator is the smallest one that can start it?
A generator has to run 400 W at 80% of its rating or less, and it must deliver 1,200 W for the startup. For both jobs, 2,000 W is enough, and that's the smallest common portable size with extra room to spare. Any additional load adds its running watts to the generator's total.
Refrigerator and other loads
| Refrigerator plus | Running | Peak at a start | Smallest portable |
|---|---|---|---|
| lights, TV and the router | 970 W | 1,770 W | 2,000 W |
| a freezer and lights | 1,050 W | 1,850 W | 2,000 W |
| a 1/2 hp sump pump and lights | 1,600 W | 2,700 W | 3,000 W |
| a microwave | 1,600 W | 2,400 W | 2,000 W |
| a 1 hp well pump | 2,400 W | 4,400 W | 4,000 W |
| a window AC, 10,000 BTU | 1,600 W | 2,800 W | 3,000 W |
Running watts combine, but only the largest motor start goes on top. A portable's starting output is about 25% higher than its running rating. The appliance wattage chart lists every load.