For years, generators have been powering the powerless. I think they are underrated and that they deserve more credit than they’re given.
Unlike before, we’re lucky to have so many choices today that even finding one can take time. But for me, this is a good thing. Hundreds of models are available and all we have to do is choose.
Finding the best quiet generator for the money when going camping or tailgating takes some research.
But, you shouldn’t buy the first thing you see or what your co-worker just bought. It might not be what you need. The first rule is to know what you need a generator for.
We might not agree on some features, but I think we all will when it comes to noise. Nobody wants a noisy generator but some just have to live with it. Fortunately, there are now generators that operate quietly.
I listed some of the best quiet generators for the money that you can get. You’ll find that they’re all portable. This is because quiet generators are generally smaller than conventional generators because of smaller engines used to produce less noise.
Lets find out more and share our helpful tips!
Predator 3500 Watt Inverter Generator
This generator from Predator runs at 3500 starting watts and 3000 running watts on gasoline with a 212cc (6HP) engine.
Features of the 3500 Watt Super Quiet Inverter Generator
Power: 3500 starting watts, 3000 running watts
Engine: 212cc (6HP) engine
Fuel: Gasoline
Run Time: 11 hours at 25% load capacity
Safety:
- Overload protection
- OHV gas engine with air-cool technology
- Low oil indicator
- Output light and overload indicators
- EPA III
- CARB
Screen: LCD
Portability: Easy-roll casters
Start: Electric
Multi-outlet:
- 2 x 120V AC grounded outlets
- 1 x 120V AC twist lock outlet
- 1 x DC-12V 2-pin outlet
Noise Level: 57 dB
Package Inclusions: DC cable, 30 amp RV adapter, spark plug wrench, screwdriver, fuel funnel
Dimension: 22.75” L x 17.3” W x 20” H
Weight: 100 lbs
Factors Affecting Generator Noise
Engine
A generator’s loudness will, first and foremost, depend on the generator’s engine size. The bigger the engine that a generator has, the noisier it is. The smaller it is, the less noisy it is.
Sometimes, it can be because of the engine’s quality. A high-quality and well-built engine is, of course, better than a standard one and will produce less noise.
Power
A generator with 4000 watts of power is louder than a generator that only has 3000 watts. That 1000 difference is noticeable.
Combustion
A generator that is fueled by gasoline or propane will undergo combustion. Combustion plays a big part in a generator’s noise levels. Inverters are less noisy because they use neither.
Whether it needs constant refueling or not, or it has a long run time or not, won’t matter. The fuel will still undergo combustion otherwise the generator won’t be able to produce power.
Portability
Even portable ones are not excluded. Although they generally run at 50-60 dB on average, there are portable ones that can run at 80 dB.
Normally, because they are portable, these generators need to be smaller and/or lighter so they are easier to carry around and transport. This also indicates that they are for outdoor use and so they have to have less noise.
Location
Obviously, the closer the generator is to you, the noisier it is.
Placement
If it’s on solid concrete or wood, especially if it’s flimsy, the generator will vibrate more, thus causing more noise.
Conclusion
Generators are a great investment. I believe it’s something that every home should have, whether a home standby generator, a conventional one, or a portable one. Especially those with cars, I think they should own one.
But if you are the kind who loves the outdoors, I recommend getting an outdoor generator or at least a portable one. And if you’re like me who hates noise (who doesn’t, anyway?), smaller portable ones, especially inverters are the way to go. They’re perfect for camping too!