The quietest portable generator: A comprehensive guide
The biggest problem with generators is that they are so noisy. The exhaust noise and the engine noise can get unbearable at times, especially when you need to use them for a long period of time. But there are ways to get around this problem by either reducing the noise or switching to an inverter generator which runs much quieter. In this guide, we will try to understand what is making a generator noisy before moving on to the steps you need to follow for getting quiet generators. There are also tips and a video at the bottom of this page which will help you choose a quiet generator.
How many decibels is considered quiet for a generator?
A generator with less than 60 decibels while running is considered a quiet generator. Anything between 61 to 80 decibels while running is still tolerable and won’t affect you much, but it can be annoying if you have sensitive ears. If a generator has more than 80 decibels while running, then it falls in the category of extremely loud generators and you’ll want to avoid those.
Understanding the source of noise for a generator:
The main sources of noise in a gas generator are the engine and the exhaust. The engine generates sound as it runs, which contributes mainly towards the overall decibel level. This can be reduced by either using an inverter generator that will have a small engine or by using a heavy-duty generator with an engine as large as 6000 watts. The latter option will produce less noise but it also won’t be as portable as the inverter generator.
How much quieter is an inverter generator?
An inverter generator will be quieter than a standard gas generator. It is because of the way it generates power. An inverter uses smooth DC voltage to generate AC power, while a regular generator uses ripples in DC voltage to produce AC power. This ripple noise gets converted into sound waves by the components in contact with it and contributes towards the noise. So, an inverter generator will be much quieter than a standard gas generator.
What is the noise rating of a regular generator?
A regular gasoline-powered generator has an average noise rating of around 62 decibels to 75 decibels. This is because it contains only one engine that runs at full power. If you are using it for your home or in your backyard, then this might not be much of a problem. But if you are using it during camping trips and other outdoor activities, then the noise can become annoying for everyone there.
Which is quieter gasoline or propane generator?
It is difficult to say which generator will be quieter. This mainly depends on the power output and also on the brand of the generator. A propane generator usually produces 63 decibels, while a gasoline-powered generator can produce anything between 61 to 75 decibels depending on its size and power output.
Quietest portable generator reviews: A top five list
Honda EU2200i 663520 Portable Inverter Generator – The Quietest Portable Inverter Generator
This generator is in the Honda inverter series, which is extremely quiet. It has a noise rating of only 46 decibels, so you can easily carry on regular conversations while it’s running. This generator will also run for around 12 hours at 50% load capacity before it needs to be refueled.
Westinghouse iGen2200 Portable Generator – Most efficient quiet generator
The Westinghouse brand is known for making quiet generators and this one is no different. It has a low noise rating of 50 decibels, which can get lower if you use it with the Eco-Throttle enabled. This generator runs on gasoline, so you will need to carry fuel along with you wherever you go. It also has a low oil shut down, which will automatically stop it from overheating.
WEN 56203i Portable Inverter Generator – Affordable quiet generator
This generator is in the WEN inverter series and has an average noise rating of 50 decibels. It runs on gas, so you will need to carry fuel along with you wherever you go. You can run it for around 10 hours at 50% load capacity before it needs to be refueled. This generator is best suited for light-duty use such as RV power backup, small home backup, and outdoor activities.
Generac 7127 iQ3500 – The quietest gas generator
The Generac iQ series generators are known for being quiet. This one will run at 59 decibels, which is slightly higher than the noise rating of 50 decibels. It has very high ratings for starting up and running quietly even when it’s under sustained loads. It has a 4-stroke OHV engine that can run for up to 10 hours at 50% load capacity before it needs to be refueled.
Briggs & Stratton 30795 P4500 – Quietest generator for your RV
This inverter generator has a noise rating of 60 decibels. However, it can get lower if you use Eco Mode while starting up the engine. It runs on propane gas and is best suited for powering an RV or camper. It also has overload protection to prevent overheating during high power outputs for long periods of time.
What quiet generator is the best for your needs?
This will be difficult to decide for most people. However, you can consider the extent of your use and try to compare it with the noise ratings of these generators. You should always go by what you need and then check the noise levels.
The first thing to do is verify that it has the appropriate capacity for your needs. If it has a high noise rating, then you will probably be disturbed by the noise. If it is too slow or cannot produce enough power for your use, then that can also be a problem. You will need to balance these two things and choose the best generator possible.
Different generators have different uses as well as applications. However, no matter what you intend to use it for, always look at the noise rating. This is one of the biggest problems with gasoline generators. They are so noisy that you cannot use them when your neighbors will be disturbed by the sound. If you use gas, then also remember that it produces carbon monoxide when burned and can cause health issues in an enclosed area. This is why you need to select a generator that has the quietest rating for your needs.