First, confirm the dimensions of the generator enclosure, and then look for a robust, weatherproof, noise-dampening generator enclosure that will keep the generator safely running in extreme weather, keep rodents from gnawing at the wires, keep away animal droppings, and secure the generator from theft.
Whether you invested in one of the best portable generators for use in case of a power outage, for use at a work site, for disaster preparation, or RV-ing off the grid, you must protect your investment. The best generator enclosure will ensure the smooth and safe running of the generator, keeping it safe from rodents, the effects of extreme weather, and burglary. Most importantly, the enclosure is great for sound dampening. So, what do you look out for when buying a portable generator enclosure? Read on to find out.
Table of Contents
What are the common types of generator enclosures?
| Type of Generator Enclosure | Features of the enclosure & Usage | Pros | Cons |
| Running Generator Cover | This cover ensures the optimal running of the generator even in extreme weather, thanks to its elaborate ventilation system. In addition to adequate ventilation, this type of cover That said, the openings for the enclosure must close tightly to prevent the elements while the generator runs. |
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| Full-Cover Generator Cover | This enclosure covers the generator with no access ports, making it impossible for the generator to run under this full-cover hood. So, it keeps the generator safe when you’re not using it. |
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| Generator Tent | A generator tent will work well if you are looking for a robust generator cover that attaches to your generator through strap locks.
Most generator tents are sturdy and withstand hurricane winds and heavy rain as they are made of tarp. A generator tent is also lightweight. Therefore, this is the kind of generator shelter to consider if you live in an RV and plan on powering the RV using a generator. |
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Choosing the right type of portable generator enclosure
Size
If you are looking for a generator enclosure, you must get the right size. Since most generator enclosures have their sizes clearly stated and the ideal generator sizes specified, it should be easy to choose the right size of the generator cover. Always follow the compatibility details given. If you’re unsure, check with the generator’s manual or the company’s website for the model number and the generator brand to find the cover it’s compatible with. So, although this is a straightforward step, it saves you a lot of money and time,
Materials
Whether you settle on a running or a full-cover enclosure, its weatherproofing properties rely on build materials. The materials for the enclosure should be rust-free and shouldn’t rust, meaning that your generator will always be safe, regardless of how bad the weather gets.
Companies that make the generator enclosures use powder-coated aluminum or sturdy stainless steel, which are rust-free, lightweight, and exceptionally durable. An alternative to metal is concrete blocks that are sealed with treated lumber or mortar.
However, most generator enclosures are made of tarpaulin, a heavy-duty, waterproof material made of tarred canvas and commonly used as a tarp to protect an object. Tarpaulin is quite sturdy, thanks to the layer of tar spread on the canvas.
Other enclosures are made of vinyl or vinyl blends such as cotton and vinyl or fiberglass, often used for the generator tent covers.
Ventilation
For ventilation, look for features like floorboards, louvers for fresh air intake, an exhaust fan, and adequate surrounding space for the generator.
Noise Dampening
Besides keeping the generator physically safe, the running generator cover you choose should offer some noise-dampening benefits. Since you may need your generator to keep running while sleeping, the selected cover should reduce the motor-humming noise. If your generator is too loud, it may violate the noise ordinances or irk your neighbors. A cover that also muffles the generator noise will keep everyone happy.
With generators running loudly and producing loud sounds rated between 60dB and 90Db, the enclosure should reduce the noise emitted by at least 50%. The best of these enclosures have many layers of materials like medium-density fiberboard, mass-loaded vinyl, green glue sealant, or acoustic caulking for soundproofing.
Robust build
Did you know that harsh weather risks ruining the generator or voiding the generator’s warranty? Whether you choose a shed, shelter, box, or any other type of enclosure, it must protect the integrity of the generator, keeping it safe in harsh weather conditions like extreme rain, freezing temperatures, snow, or even high winds.
Besides harsh weather, you need a generator enclosure that will keep rodents and other kinds of wildlife away, especially if you live in rural areas. So, the enclosure chosen should keep off squirrels, raccoons, and other rodents that may gnaw through the wires, causing power outages. It should also keep wasps and nesting birds away because these are fire hazards. On top of all that, you wouldn’t want to deal with animal droppings that may damage the generator.
Access
The cover selected should allow for quick access to the generator in case of emergencies. And speaking of access, keep the generator a minimum of 20ft from the living area and on spaces free of weeds, grass, trash, and all other flammable objects.
Security
The cover should protect the generator from theft, but also it must keep your kids safe. So, one with a lockable reinforced concrete pad is ideal.
Heat sensitivity
The cover should be rated for use with propane-fueled generator sets, diesel, natural gas, or air-cooled gasoline generators. Also, choose a cover with a hot temperature cut-out. For permanent covers, opt for a cover made of non-flammable aluminum.
Conclusion
For the generator’s protection, find a sturdy and reliable cover with a secure, lockable cover. It can be made of tarpaulin, aluminum, or galvanized steel. Also, confirm the size of the enclosure, and for enclosures designed to protect a running generator, ensure it has adequate ventilation, is lockable, and has a high-temperature cut-out.
FAQs
What is the ideal size of a generator enclosure>
Generally, it would help if you chose an enclosure slightly bigger than your generator. The rule is that – the bigger, the better.
Can you build a generator enclosure?
Yes, you could. Here are the common types of enclosures you could build.
- Soundproof baffle boxes
These are sound-attenuating quiet boxes that reduce noise from running generators. These are lined for soundproofing.
- Galvanized steel generator enclosure
This enclosure is made of galvanized steel with hinged openings for adequate ventilation.
- Concrete block shelters
These are solid enclosures made of galvanized steel or concrete blocks with mortar joinery; These are soundproof, secure, and sturdy.