How should a generator's wattage be matched to equipment?

The approach of adding 10-20% to the generator's wattage for safety considerations is a common practice in electrical engineering and equipment operation. This additional capacity allows for unexpected surges in power demand that can occur due to various reasons, such as starting electric motors or variable load conditions. By ensuring that the generator can handle these fluctuations, you safeguard both the generator and the connected equipment against potential overloads, which could lead to malfunction or damage.

Matching the generator's output to the exact needs of the equipment can result in an inadequate supply during peak usage times, leading to not only inefficiency but also the risk of damaging equipment due to insufficient power. On the other hand, overestimating the needs significantly, as suggested by adding too much capacity, can be both uneconomical and wasteful, while using any wattage generator without consideration of the specific requirements may result in severe operational issues. Thus, the 10-20% safety margin strikes a balance that maintains reliability and efficiency.