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Similar to a vehicle, most generators achieve their best fuel efficiency and longevity when operating at approximately 70% of their maximum load. Use the slider to select the ideal load for your needs. While running at 100% capacity is acceptable for short-term use or emergency backup, maintaining a 70% load is recommended for extended operation over weeks or months. This approach significantly reduces fuel costs and maintenance expenses, ensuring optimal performance regardless of the generator type.
Caravan and Motorhome Generator Calculator
- I require a generator for:
For my Caravan
Similar to a vehicle, most generators achieve their best fuel efficiency and longevity when operating at approximately 70% of their maximum load. Use the slider to select the ideal load for your needs. While running at 100% capacity is acceptable for short-term use or emergency backup, maintaining a 70% load is recommended for extended operation over weeks or months. This approach significantly reduces fuel costs and maintenance expenses, ensuring optimal performance regardless of the generator type.
Explore our comprehensive list of power-consuming items. Simply click the "+" button to add them to your list on the left. If you don’t find the item you need, you can easily create a custom entry using the "+ Add Something Else" button below.
Streaming Device
Fan
Air Conditioner
Microwave
Coffee Maker
Toaster
Induction Cooktop
Mini Oven
Electric Kettle
Blender
Electric Toothbrush
Hairdryer
Electric Shaver
Security System
Electric Awning
Battery Charger
Fan Heater
Electric Water Pump
Electric Blanket
Electric Drill
Circular Saw
Reciprocating Saw
Angle Grinder
Impact Driver
Jigsaw
Sander
Rotary Hammer
Electric Concrete Mixer
Electric Jackhammer
Electric Forklift Charger
Electric Hoist
Small Electric Air Compressor
Belt Drive Air Compressor
LED Worklight
Laptop
Printer
Electric Gate
Electric Powertool Battery Charger
200A Mig Welder
Electric Table Saw
Electric Pressure Washer
Electric Chainsaw
Garage Door
Deep Freezer
Oven & Stovetop
Dishwasher
Standard Light Bulb
Washing Machine
Dryer
Iron
Vacuum Cleaner
Electric Fence
Cutoff Saw
130A Arc Inverter Welding Machine
Bench Grinder
Electric Irrigation System
Smoke Detector
Air Fryer
Plasma/LED Television
Computer Monitor
Hot Water CylinderRunning Watts vs Starting Watts
Every motor driven appliance draws more power when it first starts up than when it runs continuously. A fridge compressor might run at 150W but spike to 600W on startup. An air compressor rated at 1,500W can draw 4,500W for the first few seconds. The calculator factors in these starting loads automatically, so the generator it recommends will handle both the startup spike and the continuous running load without tripping the overload protection.
Inverter vs Conventional Generators
Inverter generators produce clean, stable power (pure sine wave) that's safe for laptops, phones, medical equipment, and sensitive electronics. Conventional generators deliver reliable, cost effective power for tools, pumps, and lighting. If you're powering a mix of both, an inverter generator is the safer choice. The calculator recommends both types where appropriate based on your use case.
Common NZ Power Requirements
Typical home backup during a power outage (fridge, lights, WiFi router, phone chargers): approximately 2,000W running. Small workshop (angle grinder, drop saw, lights): approximately 3,000 to 5,000W. Dairy shed or large workshop with a welder: 8,000 to 15,000W or more. If you're not sure where your setup falls, the calculator will work it out for you.
Need Help Choosing?
Our team has 40 years of combined experience in generator applications including mains failure, remote start, solar backup, and custom built setups. If the calculator gives you a result and you're still not sure which generator is the right fit, call us on 0800 GENERATOR or submit a Quick Enquiry on any product page and we'll recommend the best option for your situation.
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