Reciprocating Saw Wattage for Generator Sizing
About the Reciprocating Saw
A corded reciprocating saw (Sawzall) used for demolition, renovation, and rough cutting. The motor has a moderate starting surge as it begins the reciprocating motion. Running wattage varies with cutting load and material. Reciprocating saws are invaluable during storm cleanup and emergency situations where fallen trees and debris need to be cleared, making them relevant to emergency generator sizing alongside household essentials.
Generator Sizing for a Reciprocating Saw
Running a reciprocating saw by itself requires a generator with at least 2,063 W of capacity (3 kW), which includes a 25% safety margin. However, you rarely run a single appliance on a generator. When combined with other appliances, the reciprocating saw contributes 1,100 W to the continuous running load and adds a potential 550 W starting surge gap when its motor starts.
The reciprocating saw is an inductive (motor-driven) load with a starting surge of 1,650 W, which is 1.5 times its running wattage. This starting surge occurs for a fraction of a second when the motor first engages and must overcome inertia to begin rotating. Your generator must be capable of delivering this peak wattage even though it only lasts briefly. If the reciprocating saw has the largest starting surge gap of any appliance in your generator load, its surge gap of 550 W will be the primary driver of your peak demand calculation. Avoid starting the reciprocating saw at the same time as other large motor loads to prevent generator overload.
To determine the total generator size you need, use our interactive calculator to combine the reciprocating saw with your other appliances. The calculator automatically handles the starting surge calculation and applies the 25% safety margin to give you an accurate recommendation. Alternatively, browse the scenarios below to see common generator setups that include the reciprocating saw.
Scenarios That Include Reciprocating Saw
The following pre-calculated generator scenarios include the reciprocating saw in their appliance list. Each scenario shows the total generator size needed for all appliances in the set, not just the reciprocating saw alone. Click any scenario to see the full appliance breakdown.
| Scenario | Total Appliances | Running Watts | Recommended Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Post-Storm Cleanup | 5 | 3,095 W | 6 kW |
Tips for Running a Reciprocating Saw on a Generator
When running the reciprocating saw on a generator, the most important consideration is the starting surge. Before starting the reciprocating saw, check that no other large motor-driven appliances are starting simultaneously. Stagger your startups: let the reciprocating saw reach steady-state operation (usually within 1-2 seconds) before starting the next motor load.
If the generator struggles to start the reciprocating saw (indicated by the generator bogging down, lights dimming significantly, or the appliance failing to start), it likely means the generator's peak surge capacity is insufficient. Try reducing other loads before attempting to start the reciprocating saw again. If the problem persists, you may need a larger generator with more surge capacity.
Modern inverter generators handle motor starting surges particularly well due to their electronic power management. If you are purchasing a new generator specifically for loads that include the reciprocating saw, verify that the generator's peak (starting) wattage specification meets or exceeds the 1,650 W starting requirement plus the running wattage of all other connected appliances.
Reciprocating Saw Wattage Compared to Similar Appliances
The following table compares the reciprocating saw to other appliances in the power tools category. Understanding relative power requirements helps you make informed decisions about which appliances to prioritize on your generator and where you might find opportunities to reduce your total load.
| Appliance | Running Watts | Starting Watts |
|---|---|---|
| Reciprocating Saw (this appliance) | 1,100 W | 1,650 W |
| Circular Saw | 1,400 W | 2,100 W |
| Table Saw | 1,800 W | 3,600 W |
| Air Compressor (1 HP) | 1,500 W | 4,500 W |
| Drill Press | 750 W | 1,200 W |
| Miter Saw (Compound) | 1,800 W | 2,700 W |
| Angle Grinder | 1,200 W | 1,800 W |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many watts does a reciprocating saw use?
A reciprocating saw uses approximately 1100 watts of continuous (running) power during normal operation. It also requires 1650 watts of starting (surge) power when the motor first turns on, which is 1.5 times the running wattage. This starting surge lasts only a fraction of a second but your generator must be capable of delivering it.
What size generator do I need to run a reciprocating saw?
To run a reciprocating saw by itself, you need a generator rated for at least 2,063 W (3 kW), which includes a 25% safety margin above the starting wattage of 1650W. However, most people run additional appliances alongside the reciprocating saw, so your actual generator needs will be higher. Use our calculator to add your other appliances and get a comprehensive recommendation.
Can I run a reciprocating saw on an inverter generator?
Yes, a reciprocating saw can run on an inverter generator as long as the generator's peak (starting) wattage capacity meets or exceeds 1650 watts. Inverter generators handle motor starting surges well and provide clean power that is safe for the electronic controls found in many modern reciprocating saw models. Verify the inverter generator's surge rating in the specifications.