What size generator do I need to run a refrigerator and a window AC?
This is the classic summer-outage combination: keep the food cold and one room livable. The math below assumes a full-size fridge and a mid-size 8,000 BTU window unit, plus lights and phone charging because in practice you'll want those too.
The load
- Refrigerator (full-size) — 300W running, 1500W starting
- Window AC (8,000 BTU) — 800W running, 2200W starting
- LED lights (per room) — 30W running
- Phone charger — 10W running
Field note: Let the AC compressor start first, alone, then add the fridge. Two compressors starting simultaneously is how people overload a generator that is technically big enough.
Right size: Mid-size inverter (3,500W / 4,000W surge)
RV 13,500 BTU AC (especially with soft-start), fridge + window AC, storm essentials for smaller homes. The sweet spot of quiet, portability, and real capacity for most first-time buyers.
See current prices on AmazonOne size up: Mid-size portable (6,500W / 8,100W surge)
Storm essentials with margin: fridge, freezer, sump pump, furnace fan, well pump (240V models), lights and electronics together. Louder open-frame design; electronics prefer models with THD under 5% or an inverter.
See current prices on AmazonAdjust for your setup
Different fridge? Bigger AC? Uncheck and re-check below — the plate recomputes live.