Estimating Your Wattage Needs
To select the right generator set for the job, determine what equipment you will run individually and simultaneously. Check the wattage requirements on each item (volts x amps = watts). Total the wattages of all equipment to be run simultaneously. Bear in mind that electric motor starting may require up to three times the running power.
Once you determine your wattage needs visit our Generator Selector and tell us a few additional facts about your power needs and we'll show you the Cummins Onan Commercial generators that are best suited for the job.
The wattages listed below are based on estimated wattage requirements. For exact wattages, check the data plate or operator's manual of the item you wish to power.
| Equipment - Fire/Rescue | Average Required Wattage |
| Quartz lights | 500-1500 (each) |
| Blower fans | 1500-2500 |
| Extraction equipment | 1500-2500 |
| Rooftop AC (12,000 BTU) | 1500-1700 (each) |
| Equipment - Utility | Average Required Wattage |
| Fiber optic line purging compressor | 1500-2500 |
| HEPA filter ventilator | 1000 |
| Manhole heater ventilator | 1500-2000 |
| Bucket heater | 1500 |
| Skill saw | 1500 |
| Drill | 400 |
| Electric impact | 500 |
| De-watering pump | 1500-2000 |
| Battery charging backup (location) | 2000-3000 |
| Hydraulic power (bucket) | 2500-3000 |
| Equipment - Specialty | Average Required Wattage |
| Ventilator fans | 1000-1500 |
| Rooftop AC (12,000 BTU) | 1500-1700 (each) |
| Exterior lighting | 50-1500 (light specific) |
| Interior lighting | 500-1000 (light specific) |
| Equipment - Mobile Service | Average Required Wattage |
| Refrigeration | 500-1500 |
| Computers | 250-300 (each) |
| Service tools | 100-2000 (depends on tool) |
| Battery charging | 1000-3000 |
| Equipment - TV-Radio-Broadcast | Average Required Wattage |
| Air compressor | 1000 |
| Rooftop AC (12,000 BTU) | 1500-1700 (each) |
| TV/monitors | 100 (each) |
| Microwave amplifier | 200-2000 |
| Rack equipment | 500 (per rack) |
| Exterior lighting | 500-1000 |
| Battery charging | 1000 |
Additional Power Considerations
Some tools and appliances need a "surge" of energy when starting. This means that the amount of electrical power needed to start the tool or appliance may exceed the amount needed to maintain its use. Electrical appliances and tools normally come with a label indicating voltage, cycles/Hz, amperage (amps) and electrical power needed to run the appliance or tool. Check with your nearest dealer or service center with questions regarding power surge of certain appliances or power tools.
Help Determining Your Commercial Power Requirements
For assistance in estimating your power needs and determining the right generator for the application contract a Cummins Onan Dealer. Our sales and service locator will direct you to your nearest qualified Cummins Onan dealer or distributorship.
