Find typical running watts and startup estimates for common household appliances, then add devices to build a practical backup-power load.
These are planning ranges, not universal specifications. Check the equipment label or measure the device before buying a UPS, inverter, generator or power station.
| Appliance | Typical range | Planning watts | Startup estimate | Add |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 100–250 W | 150 W | 900 W | |
| Chest freezer | 100–300 W | 200 W | 1,000 W | |
| Microwave oven | 900–1,500 W | 1,200 W | 1,200 W | |
| Electric kettle | 1,200–1,800 W | 1,500 W | 1,500 W | |
| Coffee maker | 600–1,200 W | 900 W | 900 W | |
| Toaster | 800–1,500 W | 1,200 W | 1,200 W | |
| Blender | 300–1,000 W | 500 W | 900 W | |
| Laptop computer | 30–100 W | 65 W | 65 W | |
| Desktop computer | 150–600 W | 300 W | 450 W | |
| Computer monitor | 20–60 W | 30 W | 30 W | |
| Wi-Fi router | 6–20 W | 12 W | 12 W | |
| Fiber ONT / modem | 5–15 W | 8 W | 8 W | |
| Inkjet printer | 10–50 W | 30 W | 50 W | |
| Laser printer | 300–1,200 W | 600 W | 1,000 W | |
| LED light bulb | 5–20 W | 10 W | 10 W | |
| Ceiling fan | 35–90 W | 60 W | 120 W | |
| Pedestal fan | 40–100 W | 70 W | 140 W | |
| Window air conditioner | 500–1,500 W | 1,000 W | 3,000 W | |
| Space heater | 750–1,500 W | 1,500 W | 1,500 W | |
| CPAP machine | 30–100 W | 60 W | 60 W | |
| LED television | 50–200 W | 100 W | 100 W | |
| Game console | 70–220 W | 180 W | 180 W | |
| Soundbar | 20–100 W | 50 W | 50 W | |
| Washing machine | 400–1,200 W | 700 W | 1,400 W | |
| Sump pump | 800–1,500 W | 1,000 W | 3,000 W | |
| Power drill | 400–1,000 W | 700 W | 1,200 W | |
| Gas furnace blower | 400–800 W | 600 W | 1,800 W |
Many household refrigerators draw roughly 100–250 watts while the compressor is running, but their 24-hour average is lower because the compressor cycles. Startup demand can briefly be several times the running draw. For a battery estimate, the energy-label figure in kWh/day is usually more useful than one instant watt reading. Use the Refrigerator Backup Calculator for cycling and surge.
Total every appliance expected to operate at the same time. This is the continuous output your backup source must support.
Compressors, pumps and motors can draw much more briefly at startup. Use equipment data when available.
Watts measure power at a moment. Runtime also requires stored energy in Wh plus usable capacity and efficiency.
Values vary by model, size, age, operating mode and regional voltage. This chart is for early planning. Verify critical equipment using its label, manual or a suitable power meter, and keep continuous and startup limits separate.
Running watts are used during normal operation. Startup watts are a brief higher demand from equipment such as compressors, pumps and motors.
It may show maximum capacity rather than typical use. A compatible plug-in meter usually provides a better operating measurement.
Multiply watts by hours of operation. A steady 100 W load operating for five hours uses about 500 Wh before system losses.
The compressor cycles, and consumption changes with room temperature, door opening, seals, thermostat settings and food load.
