Can I Use a Generator to Power My House in Australia?

When the power cuts out mid-dinner or mid-cricket, a generator might just be your new best mate. Short answer: Yes, you can use a generator to power your house in Australia — but only if you choose the right one and install it properly. Stick around to find out how.

Can Generators Power a House?

Generators can absolutely power a house during blackouts or in off-grid areas. They work by converting mechanical energy into electrical energy, running everything from fridges and lights to medical equipment and internet routers.

There are two main types to choose from:

• Portable generators – ideal for short-term use or smaller homes

• Standby generators – permanent units that switch on automatically when the grid fails

The best choice depends on what appliances you need to run, your total wattage needs, and whether you prefer manual or automatic operation. Thanks to recent natural disasters and grid instability, Aussie homes — both rural and urban — are turning to generators more than ever.

Can I Use a Generator to Power My House Permanently?

Technically, yes. But it’s not as easy as plugging it in and walking away. Powering your house permanently with a generator involves more than just keeping the fuel topped up.

Here’s what you’ll need to think about:

• Standby generators are the most practical for long-term use

• You’ll need professional installation and ongoing servicing

• Your local council may have restrictions on long-term use due to noise or emissions

If you're planning to go fully off-grid, generators are just one piece of the puzzle. Pairing one with solar panels and a battery setup will give you a more efficient and sustainable solution.

Use of Generators in Residential Areas

Generators are popping up in more backyards across Australia, particularly in storm-prone or remote areas. But powering your house with one safely means knowing how to do it right — and legally.

How to Use a Generator to Power Your House

Here’s the safe way to do it:

1. Choose a generator that suits your wattage needs

2. Install a transfer switch to safely isolate your home from the grid

3. Never plug a generator into a wall socket — this causes dangerous backfeed

4. Set your generator up outside in a ventilated, weather-protected area

These steps help you avoid fire, electrocution, and fines.

What Size Generator for a House Australia

The right size depends on what you want to run:

• 3,000–5,000W: Just the essentials — fridge, lights, maybe a kettle

• 6,000–9,000W: Mid-sized homes with a few extras

• 10,000W or more: Full-house backup including heating, cooling, and major appliances

Add up the wattage of everything you want to use, and remember — appliances need more power to start up than to keep running. So give yourself some headroom.

How to Connect a Generator to Your House Without Transfer Switch

We’ll be honest — this isn’t ideal. But in an emergency:

• Use heavy-duty extension cords to power individual appliances directly

• Never try to connect the generator to your home’s power system through a wall outlet

• Keep cords well clear of water and walkways

This should only be a temporary workaround. Get a transfer switch installed as soon as you can.

What Size Generator to Run a House with AC

Air conditioning can be a power-hungry beast. To run AC with a generator:

• Small split system: allow an extra 600–800W

• Ducted AC: could need 3,000–5,000W on its own

If AC is non-negotiable, you’ll likely need a generator with at least 8,000–10,000W capacity. It’s worth doing the maths before summer hits.

How to Use a Generator During a Power Outage

Here’s your blackout game plan:

1. Roll your generator into a safe, dry, ventilated spot

2. Check oil and fuel levels

3. Fire it up and let it run for a couple of minutes

4. Connect essentials or switch over via your transfer switch

5. Keep an eye on fuel, and never refuel while it’s running

Test your generator monthly to make sure it’s ready to go when the grid gives out. A quick run every few weeks could save you a world of stress when the power cuts.

You might also like:

• How Do You Keep a Portable Generator Dry?
• How to Use a Generator During a Power Outage in Australia?
  
• What Should a Generator Sit On?
  
• What Should You Not Plug Into a Generator?
  
• Where Can I Put My Generator?
  
• Where Is the Best Place to Put a Generator?
  
• Can Generators Be Installed in Basements?

Timothy Jagger

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About the author:
“What I love most about getting outdoors is switching off and hitting reset. I used to spend my weekends legging it out from under a roof—now I help others do the same.”