How do I determine the size of a standby generator that would carry a steam ironing machines, lights & sewing machines?

Sunday, March 29th, 2009 at 10:19 pm

Lora Asked:

I run a small tailoring outfit and I'm trying to decide what capacity I would need to carry a 1440W steam ironing machines, a few fluourescent lights, about 5 sewing machines and a couple of fans about 65W each. I'm not certain of the wattage a sewing machine requires or fluourescent lights.

Reply:

I'd suggest a minimum 5kW generator. I can't imagine the sewing and ironing machines being more than a few hundred watts operating power, and it is unlikely all five will start up at once for surge currents to add. There should be plenty of headroom left over for the fans and lights.

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