What will a 300 watt generator run?

Answer 1

A generator this size will generally have 1 240 V/30-Amp receptacle and 1 or 2 20-Amp/120V receptacles. You cannot exceed the rating of these receptacles. There are very few 240 V/30 amp appliances which are less than 3000 watts. Most dryers are rated for at least 5000 watts; water heaters generally will use a minimum of 3800 watts. The best you can do is get a 240V to 120V plug converter, which will convert the 30 Amp plug to a few 120 V plugs. 120 V Microwaves will use close to 1500 watts and 12.5 amps. 120V space heaters will use about the same amount as microwaves. You also must remember that loads such as motors will need a higher starting current than a running current. Most generators have two ratings. The one which will temporarily handle a higher starting current, and the one which will handle a longer-term running current. A 3000 watt generator probably has a maximum current rating that is higher, but this is only to be used for a short time. Be certain that any loads, when starting, will not exceed the maximum starting current load of the generator.