Skip to content
WattBills.com

Generator Runtime Calculator

Estimate generator runtime from fuel tank.

Inputs

Inputs and assumptions

Usable fuel on hand.

At your typical load from the spec curve.

Planned daily runtime.

Result

Days of coverage
1.0 days
Runtime per tank
8.3 hours
Screening tool. Verify your utility tariff and equipment specs before deciding.

Frequently asked questions

How long will my generator run?

Divide tank gallons by consumption at your load fraction. A 5-gallon tank at 0.6 gal per hour gives about 8 hours.

What is load fraction?

Your watts divided by rated watts. Half load is the standard reference point on spec sheets.

Does eco-mode extend runtime?

Inverter generators throttle down at light loads, stretching fuel 20 to 40 percent.

How much fuel should I store?

Plan outage hours times consumption plus 20 percent, rotated yearly for gasoline stability.

Related calculators

Workspace

Every result shows its math: your inputs, the formula, the numbers.

Save this calculation to return to the inputs, result, and report from your private workspace.

Sign in or create an account to save this calculation.