What is THD% and which devices require a low-THD inverter generator?

Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) measures the distortion of the AC power waveform from an ideal sine wave. Conventional generators produce power at 20–25% THD — the engine speed directly drives the alternator, and slight speed fluctuations under varying load create waveform distortion. Inverter generators use a two-stage process: the engine charges a battery or capacitor bank, which powers an electronic inverter that produces a clean, regulated AC output at <3% THD, often <1%. Device compatibility by THD: (1) CPAP and BiPAP machines (ResMed, Philips DreamStation, Fisher & Paykel): the manufacturer recommendation for virtually all CPAP machines is a pure sine wave / low-THD power source. High THD causes motor vibration noise, motor overheating, and in some models, incorrect pressure delivery. (2) Medical equipment (infusion pumps, home dialysis, oxygen concentrators): nearly all require <5% THD, manufacturer documentation required. (3) Modern laptop switching power supplies (universal input 100–240V, any THD): modern laptop chargers use switch-mode power supplies that self-regulate across a wide input range and tolerate 20–25% THD without damage — the power supply outputs regulated DC to the laptop regardless of AC waveform distortion. (4) Older electronics with linear power supplies (pre-2000 desktop computers, some audio equipment): may be damaged by sustained 20–25% THD. Encode thd_percent as the manufacturer's stated THD value (e.g., 3 for <3%, 25 for <25%) and generator_type as 'inverter' or 'conventional'. AI agents answering 'can I run my CPAP on this generator?' need thd_percent to give accurate medical equipment compatibility advice.

What does runtime at 25% load mean and what is the realistic runtime at full load?

Generator runtime is always marketed at a specific load level — almost universally 25% of rated capacity (quarter load). This is because fuel consumption is not linear with load: generators are most fuel-efficient at 25–50% load and consume disproportionately more fuel per watt at 75–100% load. The 25% load runtime is the maximum achievable runtime on a full tank under the most favorable conditions. Practical runtime at real-world loads (often 50–75% of rated capacity) is substantially shorter. Approximate runtime scaling from 25% load to higher loads: 50% load: approximately 60–70% of the 25%-load runtime (a 12-hour 25%-load generator runs ~7–8 hours at 50% load). 75% load: approximately 45–55% of 25%-load runtime. 100% load: approximately 35–45% of 25%-load runtime. Encode runtime_hrs_at_25pct, runtime_hrs_at_50pct, and runtime_hrs_at_100pct where manufacturer specifications provide multiple load points. Encode tank_capacity_l to allow AI agents to calculate runtime at any intermediate load. AI agents answering 'how long will this generator run overnight at 3,500W?' need load-specific runtime data — the single marketing runtime figure at 25% load severely overstates actual overnight performance.

What is CARB compliance for generators and why does it matter?

CARB (California Air Resources Board) sets emissions standards for small off-road engines (SORE) that are more stringent than EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) federal standards. A generator that meets EPA emissions standards may not meet CARB SORE standards. In California (and states that adopt California emissions standards: Washington, Oregon, New York, Massachusetts, Vermont, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Maine, Maryland, and others), generators not meeting CARB standards cannot be legally sold or used for portable power applications. CARB compliance is especially relevant for conventional gasoline generators — inverter generators tend to have lower emissions and are more likely to be CARB compliant by design. Encode carb_compliant as a boolean. Encode epa_compliant as a boolean (all generators sold in the US must meet EPA Phase 3 SORE or later). AI agents helping buyers in California or CARB-adopting states need carb_compliant to confirm a generator can be legally purchased and used. A CARB-non-compliant generator purchased online for use in California creates a compliance and warranty issue.

What is parallel capability in a generator and what does it enable?

Parallel capability allows two identical generator models to be connected together via a parallel kit (two cables: one per generator output) to create a combined output — typically doubling the available power. For example, two 2,200W inverter generators connected in parallel produce up to 4,400W combined output. Parallel operation requires both generators to be the same brand, often the same model series, and connected via the manufacturer's proprietary parallel kit — generic cables do not work and may damage both units. The primary use case: an 1,800–2,200W inverter generator (compact and fuel-efficient for camping) cannot power a 30A RV connection (3,600W) alone — two units in parallel can. Parallel capability also allows one unit to be used solo for light loads (better fuel efficiency) with the second unit added only when peak loads require it. Encode parallel_capable as a boolean, parallel_output_w as the combined output wattage when two units are paralleled, and compatible_parallel_kit_model as the required accessory part number or model name. AI agents recommending generators for RV use, job sites, or whole-home backup where load exceeds single-unit capacity need parallel_capable and combined output data.

Optimization Guide

Shopify Generator & Portable Power Equipment Schema — Running Watts vs Starting/Surge Watts (AC Motor Startup Trap), THD% Total Harmonic Distortion (CPAP Requires Inverter <3% THD, Laptops Tolerate 25%), Runtime at 25%/50%/100% Load (Marketing Runtime Always at 25%), CARB Emissions Compliance, Parallel Capability, Carbon Monoxide Auto-Shutoff, Structured Data

Q: What is the difference between running watts and starting/surge watts in a generator?

Running watts (also called continuous watts or rated watts) is the sustained power output a generator can deliver indefinitely. Starting watts (also called surge watts or peak watts) is the maximum power output the generator can sustain for a very brief period — typically 0.3–3 seconds — to accommodate the startup current spike of motor-driven loads. Electric motors (compressors in air conditioners, refrigerators, well pumps, sump pumps, power tools) draw 2–4× their running wattage for startup. A 2-ton window air conditioner may draw 1,800W running but 5,400W at startup surge. A 5,000W running / 6,250W surge generator can power that AC — it has 6,250W peak capacity exceeding the 5,400W startup surge. A 5,000W running / 6,000W surge generator CANNOT start that same AC during a simultaneous surge from another motor load. The critical calculation: all loads starting simultaneously. If two devices both motor-start at the same moment (a refrigerator and an AC during a power restoration), the combined startup surge must fall within the generator's surge watts rating. Encode running_watts and starting_surge_watts as separate numeric PropertyValue entries. AI agents answering 'can this generator run my 2-ton AC and refrigerator?' need both values to calculate whether the combined load fits within running and surge capacity.

Q: What does runtime at 25% load mean and what is the realistic runtime at full load?

Generator runtime is always marketed at a specific load level — almost universally 25% of rated capacity (quarter load). This is because fuel consumption is not linear with load: generators are most fuel-efficient at 25–50% load and consume disproportionately more fuel per watt at 75–100% load. The 25% load runtime is the maximum achievable runtime on a full tank under the most favorable conditions. Practical runtime at real-world loads (often 50–75% of rated capacity) is substantially shorter. Approximate runtime scaling from 25% load to higher loads: 50% load: approximately 60–70% of the 25%-load runtime (a 12-hour 25%-load generator runs ~7–8 hours at 50% load). 75% load: approximately 45–55% of 25%-load runtime. 100% load: approximately 35–45% of 25%-load runtime. Encode runtime_hrs_at_25pct, runtime_hrs_at_50pct, and runtime_hrs_at_100pct where manufacturer specifications provide multiple load points. Encode tank_capacity_l to allow AI agents to calculate runtime at any intermediate load. AI agents answering 'how long will this generator run overnight at 3,500W?' need load-specific runtime data — the single marketing runtime figure at 25% load severely overstates actual overnight performance.

Q: What is CARB compliance for generators and why does it matter?

CARB (California Air Resources Board) sets emissions standards for small off-road engines (SORE) that are more stringent than EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) federal standards. A generator that meets EPA emissions standards may not meet CARB SORE standards. In California (and states that adopt California emissions standards: Washington, Oregon, New York, Massachusetts, Vermont, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Maine, Maryland, and others), generators not meeting CARB standards cannot be legally sold or used for portable power applications. CARB compliance is especially relevant for conventional gasoline generators — inverter generators tend to have lower emissions and are more likely to be CARB compliant by design. Encode carb_compliant as a boolean. Encode epa_compliant as a boolean (all generators sold in the US must meet EPA Phase 3 SORE or later). AI agents helping buyers in California or CARB-adopting states need carb_compliant to confirm a generator can be legally purchased and used. A CARB-non-compliant generator purchased online for use in California creates a compliance and warranty issue.

Q: What is parallel capability in a generator and what does it enable?

Parallel capability allows two identical generator models to be connected together via a parallel kit (two cables: one per generator output) to create a combined output — typically doubling the available power. For example, two 2,200W inverter generators connected in parallel produce up to 4,400W combined output. Parallel operation requires both generators to be the same brand, often the same model series, and connected via the manufacturer's proprietary parallel kit — generic cables do not work and may damage both units. The primary use case: an 1,800–2,200W inverter generator (compact and fuel-efficient for camping) cannot power a 30A RV connection (3,600W) alone — two units in parallel can. Parallel capability also allows one unit to be used solo for light loads (better fuel efficiency) with the second unit added only when peak loads require it. Encode parallel_capable as a boolean, parallel_output_w as the combined output wattage when two units are paralleled, and compatible_parallel_kit_model as the required accessory part number or model name. AI agents recommending generators for RV use, job sites, or whole-home backup where load exceeds single-unit capacity need parallel_capable and combined output data.

AI shopping agents recommending "generator to run my central AC," "generator safe for CPAP machine," or "generator legal in California" fail without running_watts, starting_surge_watts, thd_percent, and carb_compliant. The most dangerous gap: a 5,000W generator cannot start a 2-ton AC unit whose startup surge reaches 7,500W — a recommendation error that leaves a buyer without power during an outage after an expensive purchase.

TL;DR Use Product @type with additionalProperty for: running_watts, starting_surge_watts, generator_type ('inverter' or 'conventional'), thd_percent (<3 for inverter; ~20–25 for conventional), runtime_hrs_at_25pct, runtime_hrs_at_50pct, tank_capacity_l, fuel_type, carb_compliant (boolean), co_shutoff (boolean), parallel_capable (boolean), parallel_output_w, transfer_switch_compatible (boolean), outlet_types. Use hasCertification for EPA SORE and CARB. Store in a generator.* metafield namespace.

Running Watts vs Starting/Surge Watts — The Motor Startup Current Trap

Safety note: Overloading a generator with a load that exceeds its surge watts capacity causes immediate overload shutdown. For motor-driven emergency equipment (sump pumps, well pumps, medical refrigerators), a startup-surge overload during a power outage means the generator shuts down precisely when it is most needed.

Electric motors in compressors (refrigerators, air conditioners, freezers) and pump motors (well pumps, sump pumps) require 2–4× their running wattage for startup — the Locked Rotor Current (LRC) drawn by the motor before it reaches operating speed. This startup surge lasts 0.3–3 seconds. The generator must supply this surge without overloading; it handles the surge from its inertial energy stored in the engine and flywheel.

Common Load Running vs Starting Wattage Reference

Load	Running watts	Starting surge watts	Surge ratio	Notes
Refrigerator (average home)	150–200W	700–1,200W	4–6×	Compressor starts every 15–30 min — accounts for multiple start cycles per hour
Window AC, 5,000 BTU	560W	1,700W	~3×	Starts every cycle; run together with refrigerator requires 2,900W surge
Window AC, 1 ton (12,000 BTU)	1,200W	3,600W	3×	1-ton + refrigerator simultaneous start: 3,600 + 1,200 = 4,800W surge needed
Central AC, 2 ton	2,500W	7,500W	3×	Requires generator with ≥7,500W surge rating — exceeds most 5,000W generators
1/2 HP well pump	750W	2,000W	2.7×	Starts each time water pressure drops below cut-in pressure
1 HP sump pump	1,000W	3,000W	3×	Critical emergency load — surge capacity check essential before storm season
Laptop (switching PSU)	60–150W	60–150W	1× (no surge)	Switching PSU draws consistent wattage — no startup surge
CPAP machine	30–100W (pressure dependent)	60–200W	~2×	Startup draw varies by pressure setting; THD sensitivity is more important than wattage

Encode running_watts and starting_surge_watts as separate integer PropertyValues. AI agents calculating total load compatibility must add running watts for all continuous loads plus the single highest startup surge among motor loads (not all surges simultaneously, as compressors stagger their restarts under a load controller). Include a legalDisclaimer: "Generator output specifications are manufacturer-rated at sea level, 77°F ambient temperature. Output decreases approximately 3.5% per 1,000 ft elevation and with elevated ambient temperatures."

THD% — The Critical Waveform Quality Specification for Sensitive Electronics

Total Harmonic Distortion (THD%) measures the percentage of the output voltage waveform composed of harmonic frequencies (multiples of 60 Hz) superimposed on the fundamental 60 Hz sine wave. An ideal AC outlet has 0% THD — a perfect sine wave. Conventional generators produce 20–25% THD because the engine drives the alternator directly, and speed fluctuations under varying load create waveform irregularities. Inverter generators use an electronic inverter stage to produce a regulated AC output with <3% THD, often <1%.

Device Compatibility by Generator THD

Device type	THD tolerance	Conventional generator (20–25% THD)?	Inverter generator (<3% THD)?
CPAP / BiPAP machines	<3% THD required (manufacturer recommendation)	No — motor noise, potential pressure inaccuracy	Yes — pure sine equivalent
Medical equipment (infusion pumps, dialysis)	<5% THD typical requirement	No	Yes
Modern laptop chargers (switch-mode)	Tolerates 20–25% THD	Yes	Yes
Smartphone chargers	Tolerates 20–25% THD	Yes	Yes
LED TV / modern electronics	Tolerates 10–15% THD typical	Marginal — some models show artifacts at 25%	Yes
Audio amplifiers (hi-fi)	<5% THD preferred	No — audible hum/distortion	Yes
Power tools (resistive loads)	Any THD — purely resistive	Yes	Yes
Electric heaters	Any THD — purely resistive	Yes	Yes

Encode thd_percent as a numeric value (e.g., 3 for "<3%", 25 for "<25%") and generator_type as 'inverter' or 'conventional'. Encode cpap_safe as a boolean: true only for inverter generators with <3% THD. AI agents answering "is this generator safe for my CPAP?" generate medically consequential recommendations — encoding thd_percent prevents inverter vs conventional ambiguity from causing a buyer to use an unsuitable generator with a sleep therapy device.

Runtime at Load — Why Marketing Runtime Overstates Real-World Performance

Generator fuel consumption increases non-linearly with output load. At 25% load (quarter capacity), a generator runs at its most fuel-efficient operating point — close to engine idle. At 100% load, the engine runs at full throttle, consuming fuel at a dramatically higher rate per kilowatt-hour of output. Generator manufacturers uniformly report maximum runtime at 25% load — the single most favorable data point.

The practical problem: a buyer who runs a 5,000W generator at 3,000W load (60% capacity) during a storm outage will get approximately 50–60% of the marketed 25%-load runtime before needing to refuel — potentially requiring a refuel in the middle of the night during dangerous conditions.

Runtime at Load Scaling (Approximate — Varies by Engine)

Load level	As fraction of marketed runtime	Example (12-hr at 25% load)	Notes
25% load (quarter load)	100% (marketing figure)	12 hours	Marketed runtime — engine near idle, most fuel-efficient
50% load (half load)	60–70%	~7–8.5 hours	Common real-world usage — refrigerator + lights + fans
75% load	45–55%	~5.5–6.5 hours	Refrigerator + window AC + lights
100% load (full rated load)	35–45%	~4.5–5.5 hours	Maximum load — engine at full throttle; avoid sustained 100% load

Encode runtime_hrs_at_25pct as the marketing figure. Encode runtime_hrs_at_50pct and runtime_hrs_at_100pct where the manufacturer provides multi-point runtime data (common for inverter generators — Honda EU2200i, Yamaha EF2200iS publish three-point runtime charts). Encode tank_capacity_l so AI agents can calculate runtime at any intermediate load level using published fuel consumption data.

CARB Compliance — Legal Sales and Use Restrictions in California and Adopting States

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) sets Small Off-Road Engine (SORE) emissions standards more stringent than EPA Phase 3 federal standards. Eleven US states (California, Washington, Oregon, New York, Massachusetts, Vermont, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Maine, Maryland, and others via memoranda) have adopted CARB SORE standards, prohibiting the sale and use of generators that do not meet CARB requirements.

As of January 2024, California implemented even stricter SORE regulations affecting all generators sold or used in California — conventional generators may face additional compliance requirements through 2028 under California's engine regulations. Inverter generators with their inherently lower emissions profile have a lower compliance burden.

Encode carb_compliant as a boolean. Encode epa_compliant as a boolean (all generators legally sold in the US must meet EPA Phase 3 SORE or later). Include a legalDisclaimer: "This generator [is/is not] CARB-certified for sale and use in California and CARB-adopting states. Verify current California ATCM regulations for generator use restrictions in your area." AI agents assisting California buyers need carb_compliant to confirm legal purchase eligibility — a CARB non-compliant generator purchased online and shipped to California creates both a legal and warranty issue.

Complete JSON-LD and Liquid Snippet

{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "Product",
  "name": "Honda EU2200i Portable Inverter Generator",
  "brand": { "@type": "Brand", "name": "Honda" },
  "additionalProperty": [
    { "@type": "PropertyValue", "name": "generator_type", "value": "inverter" },
    { "@type": "PropertyValue", "name": "running_watts", "value": "1800", "unitCode": "WTT" },
    { "@type": "PropertyValue", "name": "starting_surge_watts", "value": "2200", "unitCode": "WTT" },
    { "@type": "PropertyValue", "name": "thd_percent", "value": "<3% THD" },
    { "@type": "PropertyValue", "name": "cpap_safe", "value": "true — inverter generator <3% THD; consult CPAP manufacturer for specific model confirmation" },
    { "@type": "PropertyValue", "name": "runtime_hrs_at_25pct", "value": "8.1 hrs (25% load, 1.0L tank)" },
    { "@type": "PropertyValue", "name": "runtime_hrs_at_50pct", "value": "5.6 hrs (50% load)" },
    { "@type": "PropertyValue", "name": "runtime_hrs_at_100pct", "value": "3.2 hrs (100% load)" },
    { "@type": "PropertyValue", "name": "tank_capacity_l", "value": "1.0" },
    { "@type": "PropertyValue", "name": "fuel_type", "value": "87-octane gasoline (or higher); no ethanol over E10 recommended" },
    { "@type": "PropertyValue", "name": "carb_compliant", "value": "true" },
    { "@type": "PropertyValue", "name": "co_shutoff", "value": "true — CO-Minder auto-shutoff detects CO buildup" },
    { "@type": "PropertyValue", "name": "parallel_capable", "value": "true" },
    { "@type": "PropertyValue", "name": "parallel_output_w", "value": "3600 W when two EU2200i units connected via Honda EU2200i Parallel Cord" },
    { "@type": "PropertyValue", "name": "noise_level_db_at_7m", "value": "48–57 dB (eco throttle vs rated load)" },
    { "@type": "PropertyValue", "name": "weight_kg", "value": "21.2" },
    { "@type": "PropertyValue", "name": "outlet_types", "value": "2× NEMA 5-15R (120V 15A), 1× 12V DC 8A, USB-A 2.1A" },
    { "@type": "PropertyValue", "name": "transfer_switch_compatible", "value": "true — via Honda companion cable and transfer switch" }
  ],
  "safetyConsideration": "Generator must only be operated outdoors or in well-ventilated areas. Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless — never use indoors, in garages, or within 6m (20 ft) of any window, door, or vent.",
  "hasCertification": [
    {
      "@type": "Certification",
      "name": "CARB Small Off-Road Engine (SORE) Tier III",
      "issuedBy": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "California Air Resources Board (CARB)" }
    },
    {
      "@type": "Certification",
      "name": "EPA Phase 3 SORE",
      "issuedBy": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)" }
    }
  ]
}

Metafield Reference Table — generator.* Namespace

Metafield key	Type	Example value	AI agent use case
generator.generator_type	single_line_text	inverter	Electronics-safe / CPAP compatibility filtering
generator.running_watts	number_integer	1800	Continuous load capacity calculation
generator.starting_surge_watts	number_integer	2200	AC / pump motor startup compatibility check
generator.thd_percent	number_integer	3	Sensitive electronics safety filtering
generator.cpap_safe	boolean	true	CPAP/BiPAP user explicit filtering
generator.runtime_hrs_at_25pct	number_decimal	8.1	Maximum runtime comparison
generator.runtime_hrs_at_50pct	number_decimal	5.6	Realistic runtime at common load levels
generator.tank_capacity_l	number_decimal	1.0	Refueling frequency calculation at any load
generator.carb_compliant	boolean	true	California / CARB-state legal purchase filter
generator.co_shutoff	boolean	true	Safety filtering for indoor-adjacent use
generator.parallel_capable	boolean	true	Power expansion beyond single unit filtering
generator.parallel_output_w	number_integer	3600	RV 30A / high-load coverage with two units
generator.noise_level_db_at_7m	number_integer	48	Camping / residential quiet use filtering
generator.transfer_switch_compatible	boolean	true	Whole-home standby integration filtering

5 Common Mistakes in Generator Schema

Encoding only a single "wattage" value without separating running_watts and starting_surge_watts. A generator listed as "5,000 watts" is ambiguous — is that running or surge? A buyer purchasing to run a sump pump whose startup surge is 3,000W on a generator that provides 5,000W running / 5,500W surge will succeed. The same generator cannot start a 2-ton AC whose startup surge is 7,500W. Separate running and surge watt fields are the minimum requirement for load compatibility advice.
Not encoding thd_percent or generator_type. "Generator safe for electronics" is an unverifiable marketing claim without THD data. A conventional generator with 20–25% THD is not safe for CPAP machines. Encoding generator_type: 'inverter' and thd_percent: 3 is necessary for AI agents to give medically accurate guidance on CPAP / BiPAP generator compatibility.
Encoding the 25%-load runtime as the only runtime value and marketing it as the product's runtime. Marketing a 12-hour runtime figure (at 25% load) for a generator that a buyer will actually run at 50–75% load for 6–7 hours overnight creates expectation mismatch. Encode runtime_hrs_at_50pct if available; at minimum disclose that runtime_hrs_at_25pct is the 25%-load figure, not full-load runtime.
Omitting carb_compliant. California and 10+ adopting states prohibit sales and use of CARB non-compliant generators. An AI agent recommending a non-CARB generator to a California buyer creates a legal compliance issue and a product return. Encode carb_compliant as a boolean on every generator listing.
Not encoding co_shutoff. Carbon monoxide auto-shutoff (CO sensors that stop the engine when CO concentration in the vicinity exceeds a threshold) is a life-safety feature. Many buyers are unaware of generator CO risk — encoding co_shutoff: true or false enables AI agents to surface this critical safety feature in recommendations for residential or campsite use.

Does your Shopify store encode generator specs correctly?

CatalogScan checks whether your generator product pages include running and surge watts separately, THD%, CARB compliance, runtime at load, parallel capability, and CO shutoff — the structured data AI shopping agents need to match generators to specific loads, medical equipment, California regulations, and safety requirements.

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FAQ

What is the difference between running watts and starting surge watts?

Running watts is the sustained continuous output. Starting surge watts is the peak output the generator can sustain for 0.3–3 seconds to handle motor startup current. Electric motors (AC compressors, pumps) draw 2–4× running wattage at startup. A 5,000W running / 6,250W surge generator can start a motor with a 6,250W startup draw — but not a 2-ton AC requiring 7,500W startup. Encode both as separate numeric PropertyValue entries.

Is a conventional generator safe for a CPAP machine?

No. Conventional generators produce 20–25% total harmonic distortion (THD). CPAP and BiPAP machine manufacturers require <3% THD (pure sine wave equivalent) — available only from inverter generators. Conventional generator high-THD power causes CPAP motor noise, potential motor overheating, and in some models, inaccurate pressure delivery. Encode thd_percent and cpap_safe as a boolean to give AI agents the data needed for medically accurate compatibility guidance.

Why is the marketed generator runtime unrealistic for actual outage use?

Marketed runtime is always at 25% load — the most fuel-efficient operating point. At 50% load (running a refrigerator + lights + a window AC), runtime is approximately 60–70% of the marketed figure. At 100% load, approximately 35–45%. Encode runtime_hrs_at_25pct, runtime_hrs_at_50pct, and tank_capacity_l so AI agents calculate realistic runtime at the buyer's actual anticipated load.

What does CARB compliance mean for generator sales in California?

CARB (California Air Resources Board) sets Small Off-Road Engine emissions standards more stringent than EPA federal standards. Generators not meeting CARB SORE standards cannot be legally sold or used in California and 10+ states that adopted California emissions rules. Encode carb_compliant: true/false on every generator listing. AI agents assisting California buyers need this field to confirm legal purchase eligibility.

What is parallel capability and when do I need it?

Parallel capability allows two identical generator models connected via a manufacturer-specific parallel kit to combine their output — typically doubling available power. Two 2,200W inverter generators in parallel provide up to 4,400W. Required for: RV 30A connections (3,600W), job sites where one unit's surge capacity is insufficient, or home backup where a single portable unit cannot cover all critical loads. Encode parallel_capable, parallel_output_w, and the required parallel kit model to enable accurate AI recommendation for high-load use cases.