Best Quiet Generators

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You probably have stumbled upon Quiet Generators searching for the best Quiet Generator with which to power your home after a hurricane strikes. It is natural to think that Quiet Generators are made especially for this reason, but Quiet Generators were actually invented as an eco-friendly and energy-saving device, to reduce electricity costs.

Quiet Generator standards are usually determined by examining the Generators’ noise level, durability, and quality of construction. Quiet Generators are required to have an acceptable noise level as measured in decibels (dBA) with the standard measurement procedure in a laboratory environment because Quiet Generators are increasingly becoming popular devices for residential usage.

Top 10 Best Quiet Generator Models Reviewed

Honda EU2200i

Honda EU2200i

“No one ever said living in the modern world was easy. When we need to power our computers, cook dinner, or keep kids entertained on a rainy day, we have to do what we can with what little we are working with. Honda makes it easier. The EU2200i is 10% more powerful than its predecessor and still weighs the same so carrying it back from Costco is no big whoop! CO-MINDER monitors carbon monoxide levels so when mine starts climbing dangerously high don’t try anything crazy like shutting down the generator yourself because that could cause an explosion – just wait for the co-minder to sound an alarm and then go check your breathing.”

Specification
  • Wattage 2200 watts
  • Product Dimensions 21 x 12.24 x 19.72 inches; 54 Pounds
  • Voltage 120 Volts
  • Output Wattage 2200 Watts
WEN 56200i

WEN 56200i

The WEN 56200i generator is designed to provide true power when you need it. Paired with its heavy-duty steel construction, this generator operates at a noise level of just 53 decibels and can produce 2000 surge watts for up to an hour and supply 1600 rated watts for up to eight hours. It also has two three-prong 120V receptacles, one 12V DC receptacle and one 5 Volt USB port that provides clean power to safely operate electronics such as phones, tablets, televisions or even your computer during a power outage. Never worry about running out of juice again with the WEN 56200i in your hand!

Specification
  • Wattage 1600 watts
  • Product Dimensions 18 x 11 x 18 inches; 48 Pounds
  • Voltage 120 Volts
  • Output Wattage 2000 Watts
Yamaha EF2000iSv2

Yamaha EF2000iSv2

The Yamaha EF2000iSv2 is a powerful generator that runs quietly so you can keep the party going. The inverter system provides PWM control for silent, fuel-efficient operation and power protection to manage spikes in your home’s electric demand. All this with CARB compliance seals the deal for you!

Specification
  • Wattage 1600 watts
  • Product Dimensions 19.3 x 11 x 17.9 inches; 44.1 Pounds
  • Voltage 120 Volts
  • Engine Type 4 Stroks
Generac 6866 iQ2000

Generac 6866 iQ2000

Generac 6866 iQ2000 serves as the perfect outdoor power source. T his generator is quieter than its competitors, so you can maintain your desired level of noise without disturbing those around you. This Portable Generator can be connected to a variety of sensitive appliances, such as electronics and air conditioners, because it has a digital inverter module that converts the raw power into appliance-ready voltage with an input frequency precision of 0.01%. The Generac 6866iQ2000 features 3200 watts of continuous use capacity at 45% load for a maximum output of 5000 watts with temporary overload protection up to 6000 watts which allows users to provide their own power without relying on utilities or other infrastructures during emergencies or stints in remote terrain when access to a power source is limited.

Specification
  • Wattage 1600 watts
  • Product Dimensions 20x 12x 20 inches; 46.2 Pounds
  • Voltage 120 Volts
Jackery Explorer 240 Solar Generator

Jackery Explorer 240 Solar Generator

The Jackery Explorer 240 Solar Generator creates a mobile power station for your home, office or any outdoor needs with pure sine wave AC sockets. The dual USB ports and 12V DC car port charge laptops, tablets, smartphones and more. When not charging devices the 120-240Wh lithium ion battery will last up to 12 hours on backup mode (50% load) or 18 hours on UPS mode (lowest load). Delivering reliable electric service during blackouts in any conditions it is the perfect product for those seeking peace of mind when disaster strikes. 

Specification
  • Wattage 200 watts
  • Product Dimensions 5.19 x 9.05 x 7.67 inches; 6.83 Pounds
  • Voltage 110 Volts
  • Output Wattage200 Watts
JChampion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel Inverter Generator

JChampion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel Inverter Generator

When your power goes out in the middle of storm, this is something that we recommend as a must-have. With Dual Fuel you can operate your 3400-watt portable generator right out of the box on either gasoline or propane, plus you’re also getting an electric start with 3-position ignition switch and Quick Touch Panel to access all your controls in one spot. Topped off with ultra quiet operation (59 dBA) it’s perfect for RVs, tailgating, or any project needing backup power for home use. You’ll have up to 7 and a half hours of run time on gas!

Specification
  • Wattage 3400 watts
  • Product Dimensions 25.1 x 17.3 x 18.3 inches; 95.7 Pounds
  • Voltage 120 Volts
Westinghouse iGen1200 Inverter Generator

Westinghouse iGen1200 Inverter Generator

The Westinghouse iGen1200 Inverter Generator is a powerful, fuel-efficient generator with inverters for emergency backup in a power outage. The 1800 watt inverter generator has 2 120V 20 amp outlets and 2 USB outlets to provide power or any time of the year when electricity fails. It produces less than 3% THD (total harmonic distortion) which will protect household electronics from voltage spikes that can damage them – no matter what season! Transport it easily thanks to its lightweight at 46 lbs gas powered engine.

Specification
  • Wattage 2200 watts
  • Product Dimensions19.8 x 11.4 x 17.9 inches; 46 Pounds
  • Voltage 120 Volts
Briggs & Stratton P2400 Inverter Generator

Briggs & Stratton P2400 Inverter Generator

This Briggs and Stratton P2400  Inverter Generator delivers 1800 watts of continuous power for up to 10 hours at 50% load, so you can enjoy the convenience of home appliances outside your home or office. Engineered with PowerCommand that ensures optimum fuel efficiency with a low oil shutoff sensor and battery maintainers that keeps the battery charged and ready. Get generator intelligence through an advanced diagnostic monitoring system including load, ambient temperature and voltage. It can be also used as a tool for back up during power outage or emergency.

Specification
  • Wattage 1800 watts
  • Product Dimensions 20.04 x 12.24 x 17.36 inches; 56.6 Pounds
  • Voltage 120 Volts
Ryobi Bluetooth 2,300-Watt Inverter Generator

Ryobi Bluetooth 2,300-Watt Inverter Generator

The Ryobi Bluetooth 2.3KW inverter generator will keep your building running smoothly in the midst of a power outage, providing up to 2300 watts of reliable temporary energy and muscle cooling. With a gasoline tank that holds up for eight hours on one fill-up, it’s easy to take this emergency machine anywhere you need to go and back again. Plus, with electronic elements that are designed to be gentle on sensitive electronics such as televisions, radios or computers during sudden outages, you can stay connected without interruptions.

Specification
  • Wattage 2,300 watts
  • Product Dimensions 23.4 x 15.7 x 18 inches; 68 Pounds
  • Voltage 120 Volts
DuroStar DS4000S Gas Powered Generator

DuroStar DS4000S

This heavy duty gas powered generator from DuroStar is perfect for taking on the most power hungry jobs. With 4,000 peak watts and 3,300 running watts there’s plenty of energy here to keep all your appliances up and running even during a power outage. Just one fill of this reliable 208cc OHV engine will provide hours upon hours of work; with PowerPanel outlets for maximum compatibility in any circuit, this unit has got you covered. The low oil shutoff system protects your investment by automatically shutting off when it senses that the oil level is getting too low so you don’t have to worry about wasting fuel or keeping track of re-fills. To top it off, protect your family with an optional surge protection kit that provides insulation from electric voltage spikes.

Specification
  • Wattage 3300watts
  • Product Dimensions 24 x 17 x 17 inches; 94Pounds
  • Voltage 120 Volts 

How to Pick the Best Quiet Generator For Your Needs

  • Noise Level is one of the most important factors when choosing a Quiet Generator, so Noise Level should be checked before making a decision on any type of generator or purchase. Noise Level regulations are based on the Noise Level of Inverters, so check the Noise Level of potential Generators before making a decision. 
  • Noise Regulation is another important factor when selecting a Quiet Inverter Generator because some Noise Levels are significantly lower Noise Level than the others. Noise Regulations standardized Noise Measurements to a specific Noise Weighting Filter for acoustic engineers doing Noise Level measurements and Noise Cap Analysis. Noise regulations specify that generators must be tested by a third-party lab that uses an “A” Noise Weighing Filter, which simulates our hearing.
  • To ensure that you save money on running costs, make sure your generator is in accordance with the legislation concerning noise levels. You want to find a quiet generator that meets Noise Power regulations and does not infringe on Noise Levels around you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where Does the Noise Come From?

Noise comes from the internal combustion engine and its moving mechanical parts. Noise from an automatic transmission generator is also a problem when it’s warm. The noise levels depend on everything; type of oil used, condition of the spark plugs, state of tuneup and most importantly how hard you push it!

Why is it better having a very quiet generator?

Imagine a power failure, and you go to your regular home generator. It is pretty loud when running. You need to operate it for many hours or even days if the outage happens during cold weather. Noise can be very annoying in this case, especially if you live in an apartment building where neighbours share one wall with your house. Noise may sometimes create animosity between neighbours. Noise may also be a nuisance to your sleep during night. Good example is car and truck traffic or near-by airport or an industrial area. Noise can sometimes cause suffering for some people including the elderly, children and animals. Noise in general can be very annoying and you need to do something against it by choosing appropriate generator model. Noise is a significant safety concern especially if you plan to operate it for very long time. Noise may sometimes annoy other people who are using their own generator. Noise will also bother neighbours and they may call the police!

How Many DB Is A Quiet Generator?

A generator is quiet when the Noise Level is below 60 DBs. Noise level can sometimes exceed 100 DBs!

How to Measure the Sound Level of a Generator?

You can measure Noise Level using a Noise Meter. Noise level is measured in decibels (dB) which may also be written as dB(A).

How Do I Stop My Portable Generator From Making Noise?

There are several steps you can take to reduce Noise Level.

Use a muffler to reduce noise Noise comes from the internal combustion engine and its moving mechanical parts. Noise from an automatic transmission generator is also a problem when it’s warm. The noise levels depend on everything; type of oil used, condition of the spark plugs, state of tuneup and most importantly how hard you push it! Noise is a safety concern especially if you plan to operate it for very long time. Noise can sometimes reach 100 dB or more! Noise is not an issue with small backup generators. Noise levels are more important in big generators, and they are usually measured in “dB(A)” units.

How loud is a 73 dB generator?

A 73 dB generator is a very quiet and ideal for residential. It’s not perfect but good enough to avoid complaints from neighbours. A typical noise level of a residential area is 50 db(a). A 74 dB generator will be o.1 – o.3 times louder than the background noise in your neighbourhood (50 db(a)).

Are The Portable Generators Made In China Any Good?

They are made in China using the latest technology and highest quality parts. There are some generators that have better design than the leading brands made in USA. China has many years of experience in manufacturing portable generators, just like other products such as clothes, electronics or cars. Unfortunately there are also some cheap Chinese generators that do not respect Noise Standards (see Noise Law below). It is difficult to identify them. The generators manufactured by the leading brands (China or USA) are usually very quiet in Noise Level, but it is not always true for all models of the same brand.

Can I power a whole house in an emergency using one of those quiet generators?

There are some generators that are so quiet in Noise Level, that they can be used to power a whole house. The noise level is usually below 60 dB(A). They have large engine and long run time but may need additional fuel supply during longer running time. Also there is no limit on the maximum power output of a generator since it is connected to your home breaker panel. The generators are often used for whole house backup power system, especially if there is a need for long run time. There are some quiet inverter generators with surge capability to power appliances like air conditioner and refrigerator at the same time.

Use a muffler to reduce noise

You can use a muffler to reduce noise. A muffler is much more effective than an ordinary enclosure made of steel or wood. A vehicle muffler can be used for smaller generators such as Honda EU series, but not  on larger generators where the frame is too heavy and it will tip over when the generator spins in high winds. A muffler can make a significant difference in noise, especially when the generator is fully tuned and warm.

Conclusion

More and more people are using portable generators to power their homes during natural disasters. It is also true that if you have gasoline generator, you will need it now or in the future even without a hurricane!

There are many quiet generators on the market and some of them have much better Noise Level than others. The main factors that affect Noise Level are: the type of engine, internal design of the generator and muffler.

Generators with more advanced technology are usually quieter. Some generators like Honda or Kohler may have a larger gasoline tank, longer run time and lower noise level but there are many other excellent choices available in quiet generators world.