Generator for grow

Sup guys been a while since I had to move my grow outdoors I kept some cuttings that I wanna start indoors ina shed i built but i dont want to use my electricity I wanted to use a power generator any idea how big a generator for running 2x 600w hps, fans, etc. Thanks

Each 600W lamp draws 5 Amps @ 120V, so that's 10A right there. Add in another 10A for peripherals, and you're up to 20A. Will you be running air conditioning? Dehumidifier? Those things add to that amperage total.

Let's assume you're not running AC or dehumidifier, and will only be running the bare minimum, so we're back to 20A.

To calculate the generator output, we take 20A and multiply it by voltage: 120V x 20A = 2400W.

You will need at minimum a generator that has a continuous run wattage of 2400W. I would at least double that in case you do need to expand later.

Now, have you considered the noise and fuel cost impacts? What happens when the generator needs service? What happens when it breaks down?

I have a 10kW generator that I use for my grow operation (as well as the majority of my house) when power is out for long periods. I also have a decent sized solar array for when power is out for shorter periods, but I wouldn't run a grow solely on a generator.

Thanks spek , yes I have thought about the fuel, maintenance , and noise aspect of running a generator. I've worked on small 2 stroke engines before so I know what can go wrong and I know I can fix it for fuel its 3.25 a gallon here in La ca I was thinking just using the geneee for flowering while having my vegging lights hooked to the house which was my plan

https://www.harborfreight.com/electrical/gasoline-generators/4375-watt-max-starting-extra-long-life-gas-powered-generator-epa-iii-63962.html here's ones of the generator I'm looking at

https://www.harborfreight.com/electrical/gasoline-generators/3500-watt-super-quiet-inverter-generator-63584.html here's another one but only runs at 11 hours

If you intend the generator to be "prime" power (100% of the time) then I highly recommend diesel. They run at lower RPM and can go longer between services. That said, hauling fuel will get old.

The grow will likely end up costing more in fuel than just buying weed...

I dont mean to be a negative nancy but that idea aint worth a velvet painting of a whale and a dolphin getting it on.....

cantbuymeloveuh said:

I dont mean to be a negative nancy but that idea aint worth a velvet painting of a whale and a dolphin getting it on.....

Click to expand...

10-4 I'm gonna end up running an outside line straight from the breaker box

Thanks for the input guys I was just getting a bit impatient

What you guys think of a 600hps ina 2x4 tent?