How many watts does an exhaust hood fan use?
Updated
Running watts
800 W
Starting watts
2,000 W
Energy per day
4.8 kWh
An exhaust hood fan typically draws about 800 watts while running and up to 2,000 watts for a second or two when the motor starts. At about 6 h of use a day, that is roughly 4.8 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 an exhaust hood fan?
Plan for at least 2,400 W: 2,000 W to get through the start-up surge, plus a 20% margin so the generator never runs flat out. Of the common sizes, a 3,500 W generator is the smallest that fits.
| Generator | Can it run an exhaust hood fan? |
|---|---|
| 2,000 W | Only just (no safety margin) |
| 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 an exhaust hood fan?
Running continuously at 800 W, assuming 85% of the battery is usable. The station's AC output must also handle the 2,000 W start-up surge.
| Battery capacity | Runtime |
|---|---|
| 1,000 Wh | about 1 h |
| 2,000 Wh | about 2 h |
| 3,600 Wh | about 4 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 Food Truck Generator Size CalculatorFrequently asked questions
What size generator do I need to run an exhaust hood fan?
At least 2,400 W: 2,000 W to cover the start-up surge, plus a 20% safety margin.
Can a 2,000 watt generator run an exhaust hood fan?
Only just. 2,000 W covers the 2,000 W surge but leaves no safety margin, so don't run anything else at the same time.
Can a 3,500 watt generator run an exhaust hood fan?
Yes. 3,500 W covers its 2,000 W starting surge with room to spare.
How long will a 1,000 Wh power station run an exhaust hood fan?
About 1 h, assuming 85% usable capacity, as long as the station's AC output is rated for 2,000 W of surge.
Never run a generator indoors or in a garage: see the CPSC safety guide.