What Size Generator Do You Need to Run a Vacuum Cleaner?
By the Generator Size Calculator Team · Updated · 5 min read
Quick answer: Honda lists an upright vacuum at 800 running and 1,100 starting watts, a canister vacuum at 1,100 and 1,500, and a wet and dry vacuum at 900 watts for 1.7 HP and 1,300 for 2.5 HP. A 2,000-watt inverter generator runs an upright, canister or 1.7 HP shop vac, a 2,500-watt generator the 2.5 HP shop vac, and a 3,000-watt generator an upright with a refrigerator and lights.
Vacuum cleaner watts
| Vacuum | Running watts | Starting watts |
|---|---|---|
| Upright | 800 | 1,100 |
| Canister | 1,100 | 1,500 |
| Wet and dry, 1.7 HP | 900 | 900 |
| Wet and dry, 2.5 HP | 1,300 | 1,300 |
These are Honda's typical figures. The motor in an upright or canister vacuum has a small surge, while the wet and dry shop vacuums are listed with the same running and starting watts. Check the rating plate on yours, since a high-suction or older model can draw more.
Which generator size to choose
| Vacuum | Generator for the vacuum alone |
|---|---|
| Upright (800 / 1,100 W) | 2,000 W inverter |
| Canister (1,100 / 1,500 W) | 2,000 W inverter |
| Wet and dry, 1.7 HP (900 W) | 2,000 W inverter |
| Wet and dry, 2.5 HP (1,300 W) | 2,500 W |
Sizes keep the running load under 80% of the rating. A typical 2,000-watt inverter delivers about 1,600 running watts, so its 80% mark is about 1,280 watts, which is just enough for the canister and below the 2.5 HP shop vac. For more tools, see what size generator a workshop needs.
Example: vacuum, fridge and lights
| Load | Running watts |
|---|---|
| Upright vacuum | 800 |
| Refrigerator | 700 |
| Lights, chargers, Wi-Fi | 175 |
| Running total | 1,675 |
The fridge compressor adds about 1,500 watts when it starts, which is more than the vacuum's 300, so the peak is about 3,175 watts. A 3,000-watt generator carries 1,675 running watts under its 80% mark (2,400 watts), and its approximate 3,750-watt starting capacity covers the peak.
Combine the vacuum with the fridge, lights and a fan.
Tips for cleanup after a storm
- Keep electricity away from standing water. Use a GFCI-protected outlet and a cord rated for outdoor use, and do not use a plugged-in vacuum in a flooded room.
- Run the vacuum, then the fridge. Use the generator for one big load at a time on a small unit.
- Use a heavy, short cord. See the extension cord calculator.
- Plan for a basement. If the pump is running too, see sump pump generator sizes.
Run the generator outdoors, at least 20 feet from doors, windows and vents. Never in a garage or shed, even with the door open. Never run one in a basement or garage to vacuum. See how far a generator should be from your house.
Frequently asked questions
How many watts does a vacuum cleaner use?
Honda lists an upright vacuum at about 800 running and 1,100 starting watts, and a canister at 1,100 and 1,500.
Can a 2000-watt generator run a vacuum cleaner?
Yes, an upright or canister vacuum on its own, within the limits of the generator's running rating. A 2.5 HP shop vac at 1,300 watts is more comfortable on a 2,500-watt generator.
How many watts does a wet and dry shop vac use?
Honda lists a 1.7 HP wet and dry vacuum at 900 watts and a 2.5 HP unit at 1,300 watts.
Can I run a vacuum and a refrigerator together?
Yes, on a 3,000-watt generator. An upright vacuum, a refrigerator and lights total about 1,675 running watts and a peak near 3,175 watts.
Is it safe to vacuum water with a generator?
Only with a wet and dry vacuum rated for water, on a GFCI outlet, with the generator outdoors and dry. Keep cords out of standing water.
Related calculators
Sources: Running and starting watts from the Honda generator wattage guide (vacuum cleaners, wet and dry vacuums, refrigerator). Generator sizes apply the 80% running rule and an assumed starting capacity about 25% above the running rating. The lights and chargers in the example are assumed values.