Power and site support planner
Generator kVA estimator
Build a generator hire conversation around watts, startup surge, run time, fuel, outdoor safety and sensitive electronics.
Answer the job questions
Build the pre-hire card
Use the selectors to create a plain-language hire conversation starter. It updates on the page and avoids hidden result URLs.
Boundary
What this planner will and will not do
- This is a pre-hire planning aid, not a site-specific risk assessment.
- Use manufacturer instructions, hire company guidance and competent advice where needed.
- If the result says stop, treat that as a reason to clarify the job before hiring.
Merged guide
Generator kVA for small site use: a plain-English check
Estimate generator hire size by adding watts, startup surge and safe outdoor placement requirements.
Generator choice starts with what runs at the same time. Motors, pumps and power tools may need extra startup allowance; heaters and kettles can be far larger loads than expected.
Checks before hire
- List watts for each appliance or tool
- Separate running load from startup surge
- Check voltage/outlet and lead requirements
- Keep the generator outdoors with exhaust clear
Starting current, motor loads and 110V site transformers
Running watts alone can understate a motor-driven load. Pumps, compressors and some power tools can draw a much higher current while starting, so use the equipment nameplate and ask the supplier to confirm the starting allowance rather than applying one generic multiplier.
- List every item that may run at the same time, then identify motor-driven loads separately.
- For 110V site tools, include the transformer input load and confirm its continuous and intermittent outlet ratings.
- Check plugs, sockets, cable length and voltage requirements as part of the same hire conversation.
- Keep medical, critical or unusually sensitive equipment outside this estimator and obtain specialist advice.
What to tell the hire desk
Describe the job, material, scale, access and what would make you stop. That gives the supplier a better route to the right machine, consumables and PPE than asking for a tool name alone.