How many watts does a chest freezer use?
Updated
Running watts
500 W
Starting watts
1,500 W
Energy per day
1.0 kWh
A chest freezer typically draws about 500 watts while running and up to 1,500 watts for a second or two when the motor starts. It cycles on and off all day, which works out to roughly 1.0 kWh 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 chest freezer?
Plan for at least 1,800 W: 1,500 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 chest freezer? |
|---|---|
| 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 chest freezer?
Based on its average draw over a day, assuming 85% of the battery is usable. The station's AC output must also handle the 1,500 W start-up surge.
| Battery capacity | Runtime |
|---|---|
| 1,000 Wh | about 20 h |
| 2,000 Wh | about 41 h |
| 3,600 Wh | about 3.1 days |
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 chest freezer?
At least 1,800 W: 1,500 W to cover the start-up surge, plus a 20% safety margin.
Can a 2,000 watt generator run a chest freezer?
Yes. 2,000 W covers its 1,500 W starting surge with room to spare.
Can a 3,500 watt generator run a chest freezer?
Yes. 3,500 W covers its 1,500 W starting surge with room to spare.
How long will a 1,000 Wh power station run a chest freezer?
About 20 h, assuming 85% usable capacity, as long as the station's AC output is rated for 1,500 W of surge.
Never run a generator indoors or in a garage: see the CPSC safety guide.