How long will a power station run my refrigerator?
A fridge doesn't draw its nameplate watts non-stop — its compressor cycles on and off. This calculator uses the duty cycle (40% by default) for the energy math, but checks the compressor's full start surge against the station's surge rating, because that's the moment units trip.
A modern fridge typically draws 100–200W while running — check the label inside yours or its EnergyGuide. Generac's sizing worksheet lists 700W, a conservative sizing figure for older/larger units; if you size with 700W you'll under-promise, which is the safe direction.
2,200W is the additional starting watts in the Generac/Lowe's worksheet for a fridge/freezer; Generac's manual chart says 1,600W. We default to the higher figure.
How much of the time the compressor actually runs. ~30–50% is typical in a cool room; a hot garage, a full warm fridge, or kids opening the door pushes it up.
Assumptions, graded: duty-cycle default 40% — INFERRED (a WattLong assumption from typical compressor behavior; your fridge's label and a plug-in energy meter beat any default). Runtime = capacity × 0.85 ÷ (running watts × duty cycle) — the 0.85 factor is Bluetti's published formula factor, REPORTED. Surge check: running + additional starting watts vs the model's published surge rating, CONFIRMED specs from the manufacturer. Full methodology: how we calculate.
Food-safety note: a fridge keeps food safe for only a limited time without power, and runtime estimates are estimates. When in doubt, follow USDA/FDA guidance on perishable food during outages — don't gamble groceries on a calculator, ours included.
WattLong is reader-supported. Some links on this site are affiliate links: if you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure. All results are estimates — verify with the manufacturer and a licensed electrician before relying on them.