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What Size Generator Do I Need To Run A Space Heater?

Edited ByShanto Hours Updated onJanuary 5, 2023 Categories Generator

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If you’re considering using a generator to power your space heater, you’re probably wondering what size generator you’ll need to do the job.

The answer isn’t as simple as you might think, as it depends on several factors, including the size of the space heater, the size of the room, and the wattage of the generator.

In this blog, we’ll explore these factors in more detail and provide some tips for choosing the right generator for your space heater.

What Size Generator Do I Need To Run A Space Heater

Whether you’re looking to stay warm during a power outage or simply want to supplement your home’s heating system, we’ve got you covered.

What size generator do you need to run a space heater?

Typically, you will need a generator that is able to produce at least the same wattage as your space heater. To determine the wattage of your space heater, you can check the label or manual that came with the product.

Most space heaters will have a wattage rating listed on them, usually ranging from around 500 watts to 1,500 watts.

Space Heater SizeGenerator SizeRoom SizeFuel Efficiency
500 watts500-750 wattsSmallHigh
750 watts750-1000 wattsMediumHigh
1,000 watts1,000-1,500 wattsLargeMedium
1,500 watts1,500-2,000 wattsExtra LargeLow

Our Top 3 Recommendation

Recommended Space HeaterRecommended Generator
1. Lasko Oscillating Digital Ceramic Tower Heater with Adjustable Thermostat1. Briggs & Stratton Smart Inverter Generator
2. Kismile Portable Electric Space Heater, Small Ceramic Heater Fan2. Powermate Gas Inverter Generator
3. 1500W Adjustable PTC Fast Heating Electric Portable Space Heater3. Westinghouse Super Quiet Inverter Generator

Space Heater Coverage Size Chart

In this section we will discuss the size of space heaters and how much space they are able to heat.

Space Heater Coverage CapabilityWattage NeedRecommended Generator
25 sq. ft. 250 wattsJackery Portable 110V/500W AC Outlet Power Station
50 sq. ft. 500 wattsLIPOWER 750W Peak Portable Power Station
75 sq. ft.750 wattsBuffalo Tools GEN1000I 1000 Watt Inverter Generator
100 sq. ft.1000 wattsGenerac 1200 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
125 sq. ft.1250 wattsWEN Super Quiet 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
150 sq. ft.1500 wattsBriggs & Stratton P2200 Smart Inverter Generator
200 sq. ft.2000 wattsWestinghouse 2200 Peak Watts Portable Inverter Generator
250 sq. ft.2500 wattsChampion Power Equipment 2500-Watt Inverter Generator
300 sq. ft.3000 wattsPowermate 3000 Watt Gas Inverter Generator
350 sq. ft.3,500 wattsGenerac 3500 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
400 sq. ft.4,000 wattsWestinghouse Super Quiet 4500 Peak Watts Inverter Generator
(Based On Coverage Capability – Sq. Ft)

As a rule of thumb, you will need 10 watts of heating power for every square foot of floor area in a room.

As a rule of thumb, you will need 10 watts of heating power for every square foot of floor area in a room

Above we make a table based on research. But you can find more accurate wattage consumption by doing some simple steps. There are a number of factors to consider.

The first thing you’ll need to do is estimate how much power your space heater will consume.

This can be estimated by looking at the wattage on the back panel or on the side label inside the product packaging for most models, and then multiplying that figure by what it says in amps (A) in the “Amps” column.

If you have a generator that is in watts (W) and amps, then divide one by the other to calculate what size of generator it would be if it were rated in amps only.

Which would be based on how much power your space heater needs as well.

So in order for a 2000-watt space heater to operate properly on one 15 amp circuit breaker (the maximum amps allowed by code), it will need at least an 1800 watt generator.

For comparison, if that space heater were to be operated on one 20 amp circuit breaker, it would need a 2400 watt generator.

Read More: What Size Generator Do I Need For 200 Amp Service?

How Many Watts Does A Space Heater Use?

Most space heaters typically use on average 1,500 Watts of electricity. But it can vary depending on the amount of heat required.

How Many Watts Does It Take To Run A Space Heater?

Your needs increase- not only in terms of total wattage consumed and cost to run them but also because some devices are better at heating than others.

Some devices are more efficient and less costly to run, but might not be enough on their own for some jobs- like a space heater in an extra-large living room.

It’s best to have the right size generator for your needs so you don’t waste money or overheat your home unnecessarily (or lose power during an emergency).

How Many Watts Does a 1500 Watt Heater Use?

A 1500 watt space heater will consume about 1250 watts of energy in an hour.

That’s the same amount as a refrigerator! You might want to consider buying a larger generator if your home has high-energy consuming appliances, is big with tons of people living there or you live in an area that experiences frequent power outages.

Can A Small Generator Run A Heater?

Yes, a small generator can power an electric space heater. Small generators are often used for auxiliary heating on construction sites during the winter months.

Small to medium-sized gas-powered generators typically have the capacity of running one or two electric heaters at once with no problem. 

Large generators can produce enough electricity to run three or four large heaters at once.

If you have an installation that requires more than three or four electric heaters, a larger generator is necessary to power them all. 

Can A Small Generator Run A Heater

A 5000-watt generator can produce enough electricity for six 500 watt space heaters; while a 20000-watt generator will be able to handle twelve 1000 watts each (hence the need for a larger generator).

The general rule of thumb is to use as many watts that the heaters need. So, if one heater needs 500 watts then enough generators should be supplied with power at 1000 watts each.

Read More: What Size Generator To Run 5 Ton AC Unit?

Alternatives To Space Heaters In A Power Outage

Alternatives To Space Heaters In A Power Outage

There are many alternatives to space heaters in the event of a power outage.

One option is to purchase and install an emergency generator for your home or business such as the Generac EvoX Series Generator.

Safety tips for running a space heater off a generator

There are several safety tips to remember when using a generator to power your space heater. 

  • Keep the generator outside of the house, in an open area that can be easily accessed with plenty of ventilation and no obstacles nearby. Generators should not be used indoors or even near windows because they produce carbon monoxide, which is deadly.
  • Stay away from the generator if it’s running. 
  • Do not ever run a space heater while sleeping or leave kids unattended in the room with it on.
  • Run your space heaters for no more than one hour at a time to avoid overheating and tripping breakers, which can be dangerous as well.
  • Use a timer to turn the space heater on and off.
  • Install smoke alarms in every room near your generator. 
  • Do not run any other electrical appliances while using your generator, as this can overload it and cause injury or death from electrocution. 
  • If you have children or pets that like to chew on cords, keep them away from the generator too.
  • If you have a corded phone near your generator, unplug it in case of fire. 
  • Have someone on stand by to shut off power at the main breaker if something goes wrong with the generator and starts sparking or smoking. 
  • Keep all fuel tanks outside where they are least likely to leak.

Will a 1000 watt generator run a space heater?

A 1000 watt generator will only run a space heater for 20 minutes before running out of gas.

If you want to power your space heater with generators, then you need at least 2000 watts or more.

Read More: What Size Generator To Run A Sump Pump?

Can a 2000 watt generator run a heater?

A 2000 watt generator can run a space heater. A space heater is typically 1500 watts or less and many generators have the capacity to produce at least that much power.

It all depends on what other appliances you plan to use with it, which will determine how much electricity your generator needs for fuel consumption.

FAQs

How Many Watts Does A Space Heater Use On Low?

A space heater that is on low will typically use around 1500 watts, which means you would need at least a 5000-watt generator to power the device.

What Is The Maximum Wattage For A Space Heater?

The wattage of a space heater is determined by the size of the room it’s designed to heat. In general, larger rooms require more watts in order for your heating bill not to be too high!
Generally, the maximum wattage for a space heater is 1500 watts. In general, a 1500 watt heater will heat up to about 500 square feet.

Can You Run A Space Heater On A Generator?

Yes, you can run a space heater on a generator.

Will A 2000 Watt Generator Run A Space Heater?

Obviously, a 2000 watt generator will run a space heater and it can easily cover 200 square foot area.

will a 1000 watt generator run a space heater

Obviously, a 1000 watt generator will run a space heater and it can easily cover 100 square foot area.

What Size Generator For 2500 Square Foot House?

2500 square foot house requires 2500 watts (10 watts per square foot). So you need a 2500-3000 watts generator.

What Size Inverter Do I Need To Run A 1500 Watt Heater?

To run a 1500 watt heater you need a 1500-2000 watts size inverter.

How Much Electricity Does A Small Space Heater Use?

A small space heater like a 1500 watt space heater uses 1.5 kilowatts of power per hour.

Final Words

There are a number of factors that will determine the size generator you need to run your space heater.

We’ve put together this handy guide with some general guidelines for how many watts your space heater should be able to handle, and what size generator would be necessary to power it.

If you have any questions about our information or want help determining which right sized generator is best for your needs, give us a mail!

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My name is Shanto and I am the editor in chief of the popular blog, "What Size Bro." Our mission is to help everyone find the perfect product, whether it is for home improvement or for electronic gadgets. We believe that every guy deserves to have the perfect size for whatever he is using.

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