How many watts does a ceiling fan use?
Updated
Running watts
75 W
Starting watts
75 W
Energy per day
600 Wh
A ceiling fan typically draws about 75 watts while running. At about 8 h of use a day, that is roughly 600 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 ceiling fan?
Plan for at least 90 W: 75 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 ceiling 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 ceiling fan?
Running continuously at 75 W, assuming 85% of the battery is usable. The station's AC output must also handle the 75 W start-up surge.
| Battery capacity | Runtime |
|---|---|
| 1,000 Wh | about 11 h |
| 2,000 Wh | about 23 h |
| 3,600 Wh | about 41 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 ceiling fan?
At least 90 W: 75 W to cover the start-up surge, plus a 20% safety margin.
Can a 2,000 watt generator run a ceiling fan?
Yes. 2,000 W covers its 75 W starting surge with room to spare.
Can a 3,500 watt generator run a ceiling fan?
Yes. 3,500 W covers its 75 W starting surge with room to spare.
How long will a 1,000 Wh power station run a ceiling fan?
About 11 h, assuming 85% usable capacity, as long as the station's AC output is rated for 75 W of surge.
Never run a generator indoors or in a garage: see the CPSC safety guide.