Use case
Backup power for an off-grid cabin
A weekend or seasonal cabin usually needs the essentials plus a water pump. The well or sump pump is almost always the surge driver here.
Running
2,060W
Peak surge
4,060W
Recommend
5,000W
The well pump (1/2 hp) drives the peak here, surging when it starts. Sizing for the running total plus that single largest surge — not the sum of every surge — gives a realistic 5,000W (5.0kW) recommendation.
Typical loads for an off-grid cabin
| Load | Running | Starting |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 160W | 480W |
| Household lights (LED) | 200W | 200W |
| Well pump (1/2 HP) | 1000W | 3000W |
| Furnace blower fan | 600W | 1560W |
| Phone/laptop charging | 100W | 100W |
Size your exact setup
Common questions
What size generator do I need for an off-grid cabin?
For this typical load set, about a 5,000W (5.0kW) class covers it — that's 2,060W running plus the largest startup surge (from the well pump (1/2 hp)), with a 20% margin.
Can I run more than this?
Yes — this is a representative set. Add or remove loads in the load sizer to match your exact situation and get an updated number.