Home
Back
Running Watts Formula:
| From: | To: |
Running watts refer to the continuous power needed to keep electrical appliances operating after their initial startup surge. This is different from starting watts (or surge watts) which are only needed briefly when an appliance first turns on.
The calculator uses a simple summation formula:
Where:
Explanation: The calculator simply adds up the running wattage of all appliances you plan to operate simultaneously.
Details: Knowing your total running watts is essential for sizing generators, UPS systems, and understanding your electrical load requirements. It helps prevent overloading circuits and ensures reliable operation of your equipment.
Tips: Enter the running watts (not starting watts) for each appliance you plan to run simultaneously. You can find this information on appliance nameplates or in their manuals. Include at least one appliance (required field), but you can calculate up to four appliances at once.
Q1: What's the difference between running watts and starting watts?
A: Running watts are the continuous power needed to keep an appliance running, while starting watts are the extra power needed only during the initial startup (typically 2-3 times higher than running watts).
Q2: How do I find an appliance's running watts?
A: Check the appliance's nameplate, manual, or specifications sheet. Look for "running watts," "rated watts," or sometimes just "watts."
Q3: Should I add all my appliances' running watts together?
A: Only add the watts for appliances that will be running simultaneously. You don't need to include appliances that won't be used at the same time.
Q4: What if my appliance lists amps instead of watts?
A: You can calculate watts by multiplying amps × volts (for standard 120V appliances: amps × 120 = watts).
Q5: How much headroom should I add to my total running watts?
A: It's recommended to have at least 20-25% extra capacity beyond your calculated running watts to account for small variations and future additions.