ESSENTIAL-LOAD AND GENERATOR PLANNING BRIEF
Yenra | Updated September 7, 2026
Article: https://yenra.com/backup-generator/

Complete this brief BEFORE buying a generator. Have a qualified installer
review the actual loads, site, fuel and transfer arrangement. U.S. scope.
This is not a wiring, grounding or operating procedure.

HOUSEHOLD NEED
Loads that must run and why: ________________________________________
Required duration and person able to operate equipment: ______________
Alternative location/medical-device plan: ____________________________

LOAD | VOLTAGE | RUNNING W | TOTAL STARTING W | SOURCE | CAN DEFER?
_____|_________|___________|__________________|________|____________
_____|_________|___________|__________________|________|____________
_____|_________|___________|__________________|________|____________
Simultaneous running total W: ______ Startup scenarios W: ___________
Automatic starts and reliability of sequencing: _____________________
Installer's transient/current/voltage review: ________________________

FICTIONAL ARITHMETIC (NOT EQUIPMENT RATINGS)
Refrigerator 200 W running / 1200 W total startup.
Pump 800 W running / 2400 W total startup. Lights/network 100 W.
All running: 1100 W. Pump starts while others run: 2700 W.
Both motors start together: 3700 W.
Total starting W already includes that device's operating demand;
do not add its running W again. Verify actual surge duration and limits.

SYSTEM AND SITE REVIEW
Model/fuel/continuous and short-duration ratings: ____________________
Required derating and runtime AT PLANNED LOAD: _______________________
Approved transfer equipment, permits and utility requirements: _______
Qualified installer and grounding/bonding design reference: __________
Never connect a generator to an ordinary home outlet to feed circuits.
Portable unit location: outdoors, at least 20 feet from homes/buildings,
exhaust away from openings; never in a house, garage, basement or shed.
Approved weather protection and nearby buildings checked: ____________
Standby system listed siting/fuel requirements: ______________________
CO alarms with battery backup on each level/outside sleeping areas: ___
Fuel containers/storage rules and outage replenishment plan: _________
Shut down and let the unit cool before refueling. Follow exact manual.

COMMISSIONING AND OWNERSHIP
Demonstrated transfer/load/restoration behavior and date: ____________
Operator training and manual location: ______________________________
Maintenance/exercise schedule, service contact and failed-start plan: _
Installed price including fuel/transfer/site work: ___________________
References:
https://powerequipment.honda.com/generators/connecting-a-generator-to-your-home
https://powerequipment.honda.com/generators/generator-safety