What Can I Run With A 2,000-Watt Generator?

With the current trends of remote living and vulnerabilities in global fossil fuel prices, generators are becoming primary power sources across the globe. In addition, their multi-pronged use in a variety of scenarios, such as remote job sites, camping, RV trips, etc, is cherry on top. 

Talking about generators, one common question is about what devices I can power with a generator. As a common rule, the more the capacity of the generator is, the more the appliances it can run. But this article will specifically examine what you can run with a 2000 Watts generator. 

A 2,000-watt generator can provide electricity for various small appliances, such as light bulbs, cellphone chargers, laptops, toasters, coffee makers, and even medium-size refrigerators. You might also be able to run your window/portable AC, dishwasher, and washing machine. The rated and surge wattage of your generator will tell you what appliances you can run and what you cannot.

For better understanding, Let’s discuss this in detail.

How Wattage is Related to Electrical Power?

Wattage is a measurement unit for quantifying electrical power. It represents the amount of energy a device is burning per unit of time. 

To calculate the wattage consumption of a device, you need to know its voltage and amperage. The formula to calculate wattage is:

W = V x A, 

where W represents wattage, V represents voltage, and A is amperage. 

In case a device operates at 240V and draws 2.5 amperage, its wattage consumption would be 600 watts.

W = 240V x 2.5A = 600W

Below, we have given some examples to make you better understand the concept of wattage and its relation to electrical power.

Light Bulbs

Light bulbs commonly have their wattage labeled, which represents their wattage consumption when illuminated. Consider the example of a 60-watt incandescent light bulb; it utilizes about 60 watts of electrical power per hour of illumination. 

Conversely, an LED light bulb can produce the same amount of light but with relatively less watt consumption, around 7 to 9 watts. That means wattage represents the power consumption of the light bulb rather than its brightness.

Electric Kettles

We all know what the electric kettles do – they heat water. The wattage of an electric kettle dictates how quickly it will heat the water. 

High-wattage electric kettles heat the water faster due to their greater power output. It means wattage also influences the speed at which electrical energy converts to heat energy.

Solar Panels 

Wattage is also relevant in renewable energy solutions like solar panels. The wattage rating of solar panels represents their maximum output under ideal conditions, like prime sunlight and the best possible orientation.  

For example, a 375-watt solar panel can generate up to 375 watts of power. The total wattage can be increased by connecting more panels in a solar array.

Starting and Running Watts of 2,000W Solar Generator

A 2,000-watt solar generator offers two types of wattage: rated (running) and surge (starting) wattage. 

Rated wattage is how much power a device needs to stay working, while surge wattage is how much power a device needs when starting. 

As a general rule of thumb, surge wattage is higher than rated wattage. For instance, a 1,200-watt window AC needs at least 1,800 watts of power to start.

Refrain from burdening your generator with which it cannot bear. Overloading can cause damage and may void your generator's warranty. 

To avoid overloading, add up the watts of appliances you want to run at the same time. Ensure your total ballpark figure doesn't go over the generator's surge wattage rating.

What Appliances Can A 2,000-Watt Generator Run?

A 2,000-watt generator can operate several devices, from light bulbs, deep freezers, and water pumps to small power tools – items common to home, caravanning, and camping.

Home Appliances

A 2,000W generator can provide enough power for a range of appliances around your home, in addition to providing emergency power during blackouts. As such, a 2,000-watt generator is typically used as a home generator.

The table below outlines common household appliances a 2,000W generator can power, along with their running and starting watts.

In An RV or Caravan

The 2,000W generator is an excellent size for RV and caravanning. RVs are often equipped with larger appliances like portable air conditioners and refrigerators. On average, a refrigerator uses 650 watts of continuous power and 1,200 watts of surge power.

The table below can help you unpack the RV combination.

Camping Trips

A 2,000-watt generator can operate most of your standard camping applications, like blow dryers, heaters, washing machines, and electric skillets.

The starting watts of camping applications is sometimes thrice their running watts. So, thorough research of the product manual is recommended.

Below is a table as a reference point for wattage consumption on camping trips.

What Can A 2,000 Watt Generator Not Run?

While a 2,000-watt generator can run several small household devices simultaneously, there are a few appliances it simply cannot operate. 

For example, a 2,000W generator cannot provide enough power to run your central air conditioning system or a central heating unit.

In simple words, anything that takes more than 2,000 continuous watts or more than your generator's surge power won't be usable during power interruptions. 

What 2,000 Watt Generators Does BLUETTI offer?

BLUETTI has an extensive collection of solar generators with different sizes, features, and capabilities. Below are our top recommendations for the 2,000-watt solar generator from BLUETTI.

BLUETTI AC200P Solar Generator + 3*PV200 Solar Panel

The AC200P offers a decent capacity of 2,000Wh. Its powerful AC inverter can deliver a continuous power of 2,000W and tolerate a 4,800W surge as well. It has 17 outlet sources, which include AC/DC outlets, USB-A, and USB-C ports. This 2,000-watt generator also features a cigarette lighter port, an RV port, and a wireless charging pad to facilitate the users on the go.

Last but not least, the AC200P UPS backup comes with an advanced battery management system. It protects your device from every potential risk that may arise during day-to-day operation.

Equipped with 3*PV200 solar panels, whether you want an off-grid power source for blackouts or a solar backup on a caravan trip, the AC200P will make sure your essential devices never skip a beat.

BLUETTI AC200MAX Solar Generator + 3*PV200 Solar Panel

The BLUETTI AC200MAX is not your average solar generator. With the 2,200W pure sine wave AC inverter, it can keep all your home essentials running to their full capacity.

The AC200MAX arrives with an initial capacity of 2,048Wh, but it’s a flexible system. It features two expansion ports, which can accept either two BLUETTI B230 (2,048Wh each) or B300 modules (3,072Wh each).

The AC200MAX presents 24/7 UPS backup, supporting up to 900W of solar input and 500W via the wall adapter. Besides, each BLUETTI battery module has its own input port for wall adapters. For your peace of mind, a 48-month warranty is also provided for this product.

BLUETTI AC300 & B300 Solar Generator + Solar Panel

The BLUETTI AC300 & B300 is a modular system that can power your basic energy needs for days during home emergencies or blackouts. Its battery pack features an initial capacity of 3,072Wh, and its AC inverter is rated at 3,000W.

In addition, the AC300 & B300 can welcome up to four B300 expansion units (3,072W each), bringing the total capacity to an astonishing 12,288Wh. 

What’s more? The AC300 & B300 can be fast-charged at a 5,400W blazing input rate. This input rate combines both 2,400W solar input and 3,000W AC input. To keep things brief, the AC300 & B300 is a reliable UPS backup for all unfortunate times.

Related articles: 2000-Watt Portable Indoor Generator for Home Emergency

Best 2000 Watt Solar Generator [BLUETTI's Pick]

Tips to Choose the Right 2,000W Generator for Your Needs

There are scores of things you need to consider when buying the right 2,000W generator for power outages. Below, we have outlined some tips to help you make an informed choice.

Overall Weight

You may need to move around your generator during times of emergency. That being the case, we recommend buying a wheeled 2,000W generator that does not weigh much.

Safety & Durability

Safety is all well and good. Choose a 2,000W generator that uses safe battery technology. Our vote is for LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries since they are highly stable, have a thermal runaway threshold of 270°C, and don’t use any toxins. 

Added Features

Some 2,000W generators have added features, like diverse outlet ports, smart LED screens, and advanced battery management systems. While these features surely add to the cost, they are worth the investment for different situations.

Recharge Efficiency 

What about recharge time? If your 2,000W generator takes 8 to 10 hours to recharge, it might not be able to support you during sudden power emergencies. So, opt for a generator that has a shorter recharge time – preferably 3 to 4 hours.

Final Thoughts

Before investing in a 2,000-watt generator, checking the wattage consumption of your specific appliances is recommended. BLUETTI 2,000W generators are the finest – they use lithium phosphate batteries, have multiple outlets, and can be expanded in response to your evolving energy needs.