How many watts does a box fan use?
Updated
Running watts
100 W
Starting watts
100 W
Energy per day
800 Wh
A box fan typically draws about 100 watts while running. At about 8 h of use a day, that is roughly 800 Wh per day. These are typical values from generator wattage charts: the label on your own appliance (or its EnergyGuide sticker) gives the exact figure.
What size generator do I need for a box fan?
Plan for at least 120 W: 100 W to get through the start-up surge, plus a 20% margin so the generator never runs flat out. Of the common sizes, a 2,000 W generator is the smallest that fits.
| Generator | Can it run a box fan? |
|---|---|
| 2,000 W | Yes |
| 3,500 W | Yes |
| 5,000 W | Yes |
| 7,500 W | Yes |
| 10,000 W | Yes |
| 15,000 W | Yes |
How long will a power station run a box fan?
Running continuously at 100 W, assuming 85% of the battery is usable. The station's AC output must also handle the 100 W start-up surge.
| Battery capacity | Runtime |
|---|---|
| 1,000 Wh | about 9 h |
| 2,000 Wh | about 17 h |
| 3,600 Wh | about 31 h |
Running more than one appliance?
Starting surges don't add up the way running watts do. Pick everything you want to power to get your real number.
Open the Generator Size Calculator for Your HomeFrequently asked questions
What size generator do I need to run a box fan?
At least 120 W: 100 W to cover the start-up surge, plus a 20% safety margin.
Can a 2,000 watt generator run a box fan?
Yes. 2,000 W covers its 100 W starting surge with room to spare.
Can a 3,500 watt generator run a box fan?
Yes. 3,500 W covers its 100 W starting surge with room to spare.
How long will a 1,000 Wh power station run a box fan?
About 9 h, assuming 85% usable capacity, as long as the station's AC output is rated for 100 W of surge.
Never run a generator indoors or in a garage: see the CPSC safety guide.