Commercial Generator Size Calculator

Commercial generator sizes for various applications vary widely. Small offices may need 30-100kW generators, while larger office buildings could require 100-1000kW. Retail stores and restaurants typically use 30-100kW units. Warehouses may need 100-1000kW or more. Data centers and hospitals often require 500-2000kW generators. Manufacturers and hotels might use 100-2000kW units. Shopping malls usually require 1000-5000kW+ generators.

Commercial Generator Size Calculator

Commercial Generator Size Calculator







Commercial ApplicationGenerator Size (kW)
Small Office Building30kW – 100kW
Medium Office Building100kW – 500kW
Large Office Building500kW – 1000kW
Retail Store30kW – 100kW
Restaurant30kW – 100kW
Small Warehouse100kW – 500kW
Medium Warehouse500kW – 1000kW
Large Warehouse1000kW+
Data Center500kW – 2000kW+
Hospital500kW – 2000kW+
Manufacturing Facility100kW – 2000kW+
Hotel500kW – 2000kW+
Shopping Mall1000kW – 5000kW+

FAQs

How do you size a generator for a commercial building? Sizing a generator for a commercial building involves calculating the total electrical load the generator needs to support. This is typically done by summing up the power requirements of all connected appliances, equipment, and systems. It’s important to consider both the running (kW) and starting (kVA) power requirements, as some devices have higher initial power surges.

How do I know what size generator I need for my business? To determine the generator size for your business, you should conduct an electrical load analysis. This involves listing all electrical devices, determining their power requirements, and accounting for starting currents. Once you have this data, you can estimate the generator size needed.

How do you calculate kVA for a generator? kVA (kilovolt-amperes) for a generator can be calculated using the formula: kVA = kW / Power Factor

Where kW is the real power in kilowatts and the power factor is a dimensionless number representing the efficiency of power usage.

How do you calculate the load of a commercial generator? The load of a commercial generator is calculated by summing the power requirements (in kW) of all the electrical equipment and systems you intend to power. You also need to consider the starting currents for devices that have high initial power demands.

How large is a 100kW generator? A 100kW generator is typically a compact unit suitable for smaller commercial or industrial applications. The exact physical size can vary among manufacturers, but it’s generally a portable or stationary generator that might occupy a space of roughly 5 to 10 square feet and stand a few feet tall.

How big of a generator do I need to run a shop? The size of the generator needed for a shop depends on the total electrical load of the shop’s equipment and systems. For a small shop, a generator in the range of 20-50kW may suffice, while larger shops with more equipment may require generators in the 100-200kW range.

How many amps is a 30 kVA generator per phase? A 30kVA generator, assuming it’s a 3-phase generator, would typically provide around 30,000 VA / (sqrt(3) * Voltage) amperes per phase. For a common 208V three-phase system, this would be approximately 86.6 amps per phase.

Can a generator power a whole building? Yes, a generator can power a whole building if it is appropriately sized to handle the electrical load of the building. Commercial and industrial buildings often use generators to provide backup power during outages.

What can 15kVA generator power? A 15kVA generator can power various equipment and systems depending on their individual power requirements. It can typically handle smaller commercial or industrial loads, including lighting, HVAC systems, computers, and small machinery.

What can a 50 kVA generator power? A 50kVA generator can power a range of equipment and systems, including moderate-sized industrial machinery, multiple HVAC units, lighting, computers, and other essential electrical devices in a commercial or industrial setting.

How many kW is a 70 kVA generator? The kW rating of a generator is determined by its power factor. Assuming a power factor of 0.8 (a common value for many loads), a 70kVA generator would be equivalent to 56kW (70kVA * 0.8).

What will a 10 kVA generator run? A 10kVA generator can run a small load, such as a few lights, basic appliances, and essential electronics in a residential setting. In a commercial or industrial context, it might power minimal equipment or serve as a backup for critical systems.

How much diesel does a 1000 kVA generator use per hour? A 1000kVA generator would consume diesel fuel at a rate of approximately 200-250 liters per hour under full load, but this can vary depending on the generator’s efficiency and load.

What is the capacity of a generator in kVA? The capacity of a generator is typically stated in kVA (kilovolt-amperes), which represents the apparent power output. It includes both the real power (kW) and the reactive power (kVAR), making it a measure of the total power supplied.

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What is a 20kW generator? A 20kW generator is a generator that can produce a continuous electrical power output of 20 kilowatts. It can provide backup power to residential homes or smaller commercial applications.

How much can a 7500w generator power? A 7500-watt generator can power various household appliances and electronics during an outage. It can typically handle a refrigerator, sump pump, lights, computers, and some additional small appliances simultaneously.

How powerful is a 22kW generator? A 22kW generator can supply a continuous electrical power output of 22 kilowatts. It is commonly used for whole-house backup power in residential applications.

How big is a 22kW generator? The physical size of a 22kW generator can vary depending on the manufacturer and model. Generally, it is a compact unit that might occupy a space of around 2.5 feet by 4 feet and stand approximately 3 feet tall.

What is considered a large generator? A large generator typically has a power rating of 100kW or higher. However, the classification of “large” can vary depending on the context and industry. Industrial generators can range from hundreds of kilowatts to megawatts in size.

How far should a generator be from a building? Generators should be placed a safe distance away from buildings to prevent exhaust fumes, noise, and fire hazards. A common guideline is to keep generators at least 5 to 15 feet away from structures, depending on local regulations and specific installation requirements.

Do I need a generator for my business? Whether you need a generator for your business depends on your location, the nature of your business, and the importance of continuous power. Businesses that rely heavily on electrical equipment or cannot afford power interruptions may benefit from having a backup generator.

How many amps can a 22kW generator handle? A 22kW generator can handle approximately 91.7 amps at 240V in a single-phase system or around 31.3 amps at 208V in a three-phase system. These values may vary based on specific generator configurations.

How many amps is a 50 kVA generator? The number of amps a 50kVA generator can provide depends on the voltage of the system it’s connected to. For example, in a 208V three-phase system, it can provide approximately 144.2 amps per phase.

How much diesel required for 30 kVA generator? A 30kVA generator running at full load would consume diesel fuel at a rate of approximately 6-8 liters per hour, but this can vary based on generator efficiency and load.

How close can a diesel generator be to a building? The distance between a diesel generator and a building should comply with local regulations and safety guidelines. Typically, generators should be placed at least 5 to 15 feet away from buildings to ensure proper ventilation and safety.

Can you run a generator full time? Yes, many generators are designed to run continuously, provided they are properly maintained and fueled. However, regular maintenance and scheduled shutdowns for inspections are necessary to ensure their long-term reliability.

How many kW generator do I need to run a house? The size of the generator needed to run a house depends on the house’s electrical load. A typical range is 20kW to 30kW for whole-house backup power, but it can vary widely based on the size and power requirements of the home.

What can a 20kVA generator power? A 20kVA generator can power various equipment and systems, including a small to medium-sized residential home, small businesses, and light industrial loads, depending on the specific power requirements.

Will a 15 kW generator run the whole house? A 15kW generator may be able to run the essential circuits in a smaller house, but it may not provide enough power for the entire house, especially if it has high electrical demands. A larger generator is typically recommended for whole-house backup.

How many HP is 15kVA? The relationship between kVA (apparent power) and horsepower (HP) is not direct and depends on the power factor. HP can be calculated as follows: HP = (kVA × Power Factor) / 0.7457

Assuming a power factor of 0.8, a 15kVA generator would be approximately 16 HP.

How much kVA is required for a house UK? The kVA required for a house in the UK varies depending on the size and electrical load of the house. A typical range for whole-house backup generators in the UK is 10kVA to 20kVA, but larger homes with more appliances may require higher capacities.

How big is a 50kVA generator? The physical size of a 50kVA generator can vary based on the manufacturer and model. Generally, it might occupy a space of approximately 4 feet by 6 feet and stand several feet tall.

How much load can a 100 kVA generator take? A 100kVA generator can handle a significant electrical load, including the power requirements of a medium-sized industrial facility, multiple large commercial buildings, or a substantial part of a larger facility’s load.

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How much can a 60kW generator power? A 60kW generator can provide continuous electrical power output of 60 kilowatts. It can handle various loads, including small to medium-sized industrial equipment, commercial buildings, and larger residential backup power needs.

How many kVA is a 100kw generator? The kVA rating of a generator depends on its power factor. Assuming a power factor of 0.8 (common for many loads), a 100kW generator would be equivalent to 125kVA (100kW / 0.8).

How many kW is a 125kva generator? Assuming a power factor of 0.8, a 125kVA generator would be approximately 100kW (125kVA * 0.8).

What will a 10,000 kW generator run? A 10,000 kW generator, also known as a 10 MW generator, can power a substantial portion of a large industrial facility, multiple commercial buildings, or serve as a backup power source for a significant area.

Will a 10 kW generator run a whole house? A 10kW generator may not be sufficient to power an entire house, especially if the house has high electrical demands. It could provide backup power for essential circuits, but larger homes may require a larger generator for whole-house backup.

How big is a 20 kVA generator? The physical size of a 20kVA generator can vary depending on the manufacturer and model. Typically, it might occupy a space of around 4 feet by 5 feet and stand several feet tall.

Can a diesel generator run 24 hours a day? Yes, diesel generators are capable of running 24 hours a day, but they require regular maintenance and refueling to ensure continuous operation. Proper maintenance is essential to prevent breakdowns and ensure long-term reliability.

How many kW in 1 litre of diesel? The energy content of diesel fuel can vary, but on average, there are approximately 35-40 megajoules (MJ) of energy in one liter of diesel fuel. This is roughly equivalent to 9.7 to 11.1 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per liter.

How much fuel does a 22kW generator use? The fuel consumption of a 22kW generator depends on its efficiency, load, and the type of fuel it uses. As a rough estimate, a 22kW generator running at full load might consume around 2-3 gallons (7.6-11.4 liters) of diesel fuel per hour.

What can a 12 kVA generator power? A 12kVA generator can power various loads, including a small residential home, some commercial equipment, and essential appliances during an outage.

How many kW is a 10 kVA generator? The kW rating of a generator depends on its power factor. Assuming a power factor of 0.8 (common for many loads), a 10kVA generator would be approximately 8kW (10kVA * 0.8).

How long will a 10 kVA generator run? The runtime of a 10kVA generator depends on its fuel tank capacity, load, and fuel consumption rate. As a rough estimate, a 10kVA generator running at full load might run for 6-8 hours on a standard fuel tank.

What is the difference between 22kW and 24kW generator? The primary difference between a 22kW and a 24kW generator is their power output capacity. A 22kW generator can provide 22,000 watts of continuous electrical power, while a 24kW generator can provide 24,000 watts. The difference in output is relatively small and may not significantly impact the range of appliances and systems they can power.

Will a 16kW generator run a whole house? A 16kW generator may run a whole house, but it depends on the specific electrical load of the house. It’s more likely to provide backup power for essential circuits rather than the entire house, especially in larger homes with higher electrical demands.

How long does a 22kW generator last? The lifespan of a 22kW generator can vary depending on factors like maintenance, usage, and environmental conditions. On average, a well-maintained generator can last 10-30 years or more.

What can an 8000w generator run? An 8000-watt generator can power a range of household appliances and devices during an outage. It can typically handle a refrigerator, lights, a sump pump, a few small appliances, and some electronics simultaneously.

Is 7.5 kW enough to run a house? A 7.5kW generator may be sufficient to power a small to moderately sized house, but it may not support the entire house’s electrical load. It can provide backup power for essential circuits, but larger homes may require a larger generator.

How long will a 7500 watt generator run on a tank of gas? The runtime of a 7500-watt generator on a tank of gas depends on its fuel tank capacity, load, and fuel consumption rate. As a rough estimate, it might run for 6-10 hours on a standard fuel tank at full load.

How much does it cost to run a 22kW generator? The cost to run a 22kW generator depends on factors such as fuel cost, load, and local electricity rates. As a rough estimate, running a 22kW generator at full load can cost around $4 to $6 per hour with diesel fuel.

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What will a 30kW generator run? A 30kW generator can power a variety of loads, including small to medium-sized industrial machinery, multiple HVAC units, lighting, computers, and other essential electrical devices in a commercial or industrial setting.

Are larger generators more efficient? Not necessarily. The efficiency of a generator depends on its design and the specific model. While larger generators may be more efficient in terms of power production per unit of fuel, smaller generators can also be highly efficient when appropriately sized for their intended load.

How big is a 1000 kW generator? A 1000 kW generator, also known as a 1 MW generator, can vary in size based on its design and manufacturer. It typically requires a substantial amount of space and may have dimensions of 15 feet or more in length, several feet in width, and stand several feet tall.

How many watts does a 22kW generator produce? A 22kW generator produces 22,000 watts of electrical power when operating at its rated capacity.

How do I calculate generator size? To calculate the generator size, you need to:

  1. List all the electrical devices and equipment you want the generator to power.
  2. Determine their power requirements in watts or kilowatts.
  3. Account for starting currents and power factor.
  4. Sum up the power requirements to find the total load.
  5. Choose a generator with a rating that exceeds the calculated total load to provide a margin of safety.

What happens if the generator is too big? If the generator is significantly oversized for the intended load, it can lead to inefficient operation, increased fuel consumption, and higher maintenance costs. Additionally, generators may not operate optimally at very light loads, reducing their efficiency.

What size generator do I need for a large building? The size of the generator needed for a large building depends on the building’s electrical load. Large commercial or industrial buildings may require generators ranging from hundreds of kilowatts to megawatts to meet their power needs.

Is it OK to oversize a generator? It’s generally better to slightly oversize a generator than to undersize it, as long as the oversizing is not excessive. A margin of safety can help the generator handle unexpected load increases and improve its overall performance. However, excessive oversizing can lead to inefficiency and increased operating costs.

Why does a generator need to be 20 feet away? A generator should be placed a safe distance away from buildings and other structures to ensure proper ventilation, reduce the risk of carbon monoxide exposure, minimize noise transmission, and prevent fire hazards. The specific distance can vary depending on local regulations and safety guidelines.

Can generators run in the rain? Many generators are designed to operate in various weather conditions, including light rain. However, it’s essential to protect generators from heavy rain and flooding, as water can damage electrical components and pose safety risks.

How big of a generator do I need to run everything? The size of the generator needed to run everything in a building or home depends on the total electrical load of all connected devices and equipment. A generator should be sized to accommodate the maximum load you want to power simultaneously.

Is it cheaper to run a generator than use electricity? The cost-effectiveness of running a generator versus using electricity from the grid depends on factors such as fuel costs, generator efficiency, and local electricity rates. In many cases, grid electricity is more cost-effective for regular usage, while generators are used for backup power during outages.

Do you need permission to use a generator? The need for permission to use a generator depends on local regulations and zoning ordinances. In many areas, you may need permits or approvals to install and operate a generator, especially for commercial or industrial use. It’s important to check with your local authorities and follow applicable regulations.

Will a 22kW generator run a whole house? A 22kW generator may run a whole house, but it depends on the specific electrical load of the house. It is typically suitable for providing backup power to essential circuits in larger homes rather than powering the entire house.

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