Top 10 Best Quiet Generator | Reviews & Guides
Using a portable generator is one of the most cost-effective solutions. There are different types of generators, such as trailer generators, home emergency generators and standby generators. Whatever the purpose of the generator, most people prefer silent generators. Generators power most household appliances and devices, so it’s important that they work for a long time.
In this article, we will introduce the quietest portable generators on the market. If you’ve ever used a portable generator, you know how noisy they can be. Fortunately, technology improves every year, offering consumers new and better options. If you’re buying a new generator, choose a very quiet one, even if it costs a little more. Of course, this depends entirely on your budget. But in 2021, you can buy the best quiet generator at a very good price. After all, they’re getting cheaper every year.
The Champion 100519 open frame generator has a maximum power of 6250 watts and an operating power of 5000 watts. It has a 4.2-litre tank and can run continuously for 13.5 hours at 1/4 load.
The noise level of this silent generator is 69 decibels, so it is not suitable for camping, but for household use this portable generator is a good choice. It has a four-digit digital display that records run time, total run time, voltage and frequency.
The 301cc engine also has a biogas function, 4 120V AC sockets, 4 120/240V 30A sockets, 1 12V DC socket, automatic monitoring, oil level indicator, overheat indicator and power indicator.
“The Champion 100519 is heavy (121 kg) and difficult to carry, but the non-locking handle and rubber wheels make it easy to transport
Features:
- Type : Open-frame Single-fuel Inverter
- Starting Watts : 6250
- Running Watts : 5000
- Run-Time (Gas) : 12.5 hrs. @ 25% load
- Fuel Capacity : 4.0 Gallon
- Noise Level : 69 dBA
- Weight : 121 pounds
- Warranty : 3 years
If you regularly read reviews of AC generators, you’ll find that many brands compare it to the Honda EU3000iS or the older Honda EU2200i. This is because it’s one of the simplest models, making it one of the most reliable and quietest, and it’s also very economical.
In other words, a Honda inverter generator is an investment that the average user makes for themselves. It has a limited number of parts to repair or replace and all the necessary safety features to protect you and your vehicle.
Plus, the latest inverter technology ensures clean, stable and reliable power for all your electronic devices. The same technology allows for higher power output, so the difference between overload and constant current is small.
This is the most expensive silent inverter generator on the market, but for the price you get the best quality and durability.
Features:
- Running Wattage : 2,800 watts
- Surge Wattage : 3,000 watts
- Runtime : 20 hrs @ 1/4 load
- Tank Capacity : 3.4 gal
- Noise Level : 50 dB @ 1/4 load
- Dimensions : 26 x 22 x 17.6 inches
- Weight : 144 lbs
One major disadvantage of a portable silent generator is that it does not display any useful information.
The Generac iQ2000 solves this problem by displaying useful information, such as remaining run time, current energy consumption and remaining fuel.
In today’s data-driven world, we expect this information and it would be a shame to not having it.
By displaying this information, we can see and estimate how much fuel and travel time we have left.
In addition to this important information, the iQ2000 also provides a range of other important data. In the long run, it runs quite silently and the inverter protects the electronics.
It is easy to use and has three settings: economy, normal and turbo. They are designed for 1600 watts, but if you need more power you can connect another similar unit the Generac Parallel Kit.
Features:
- Output (Running) : 1600 Watts
- Output (Starting) : 2000 Watts
- Engine Type : 4 Stroke
- Engine Displacement : 80 Cubic Centimeters
- Fuel Type : Gasoline
- Voltage : 120 Volts
- Weight : 46.2 Pounds
- Warranty : 3-year limited warranty
This small generator is ideal for powering a variety of devices during power outages or while camping.
The generator is easy to start and the cold start technology ensures comfortable operation even at low temperatures.
The choice between petrol and propane means that if one fuel is not available, there is no problem using the other. Propane will not go bad, even with prolonged storage.
The generator has a 192 cc engine with a starting power of 3,400 W and a running power of 3,100 W. At 25% load, the generator can run for up to 30 minutes. At 25 % load it can run for 7.5 hours.
The generator, powered by a 20 kg propane butane tank, produces 3 060 W at start-up and 2 790 W during operation, giving 14.5 hours of operation at 25 % load.
In economy mode, engine speed is adjusted according to load to reduce noise and increase fuel consumption.
The generator produces very clean electricity with a harmonic distortion of less than 3%, so it can safely power sensitive electronic equipment. The generator is also equipped with a fuel level sensor that stops the engine when the fuel level drops below a certain level.
Changing fuel is as easy as turning a dial. If you have a parallel connection, you can connect a second generator for even more power. The sound level of this generator is 59 decibels.
The control panel has one 120V 30A outlet, two 120V 20A outlets and one 12V DC outlet with two USB adapters.
This multi-fuel unit is covered by a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty.
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Features:
- Type : Close-frame Dual-fuel Inverter
- Starting Watts (Gas) : 3400
- Running Watts (Gas) : 3100
- Run-Time (Gas) : 7.5 hrs. @ 25% load
- Start Type : Electric + Recoil
- Parallel Capable : Yes
- Fuel Capacity : 1.6 Gallon
- Noise Level : 59 dBA from 23 feet
- Weight : 95 pounds
- Warranty : 3 years
Little-known Rainier R2200i is a quiet inverter generator that you can find online at an affordable price. It has a noise level of only 52 decibels and costs less than most generators currently available on the market.
The combination of a four-stroke engine with improved valves and a slightly larger 1.3-liter engine provides longer run times of 8 hours at 50% load and 13 hours at 25% load. The generator’s control panel also features an energy-saving switch to keep the generator running for as long as possible.
Users find that the cable starter responds very quickly and starts the generator even at low temperatures. Instead of separate USB charging ports, the generator panel has two 120 V AC outlets, one 12 V DC outlet and a USB converter. All outlets are connected to a neutral switch, but this is usually not a problem.
The weight of the generator is surprisingly light at 44 kg. If you wear gloves, you can’t reach the big cable at the top, but otherwise it’s easy to transport.
The generator is EPA and CARB approved and can be purchased and used anywhere in the US.
The main drawback of this generator is the warranty. The warranty period is short: one year for residential use and six months for commercial use.
Features:
- Generator type : inverter
- Peak watts : 2,200
- Rated watts : 1,800
- Fuel tank : 1.3 gal.
- Start type : recoil
- Noise level : 52 dB(A)
- Engine : 79cc Rainier OHV 4-stroke
- Run time : 8 hrs. (50% load), 13 hrs. (25% load)
- Warranty : 1-year (residential), 6-month (commercial)
This Pulsar generator is an ideal and affordable solution for those looking for a relatively inexpensive but quiet inverter generator. It can compete with more expensive models in its class in terms of performance and affordability. With a maximum output of 2,300 W and a continuous output of 1,800 W, the Pulsar G2319N can run for up to 6 hours at 50% electrical load.
The Pulsar G2319N has a relatively high noise level of 59 dB at 25% load, which is comparable to more efficient generators. Therefore, for most users, it is better to spend a little more money on a quieter generator.
However, this generator has a fully functional front panel, two 120-volt sockets, a USB charging socket and a 12V battery charging socket. The AC and DC outlets have a reset feature right on the generator panel, so you can easily reset them if there’s a power outage. The AC and DC outlets have a reset function directly on the generator panel, so they can be easily reset in the event of a power outage. We also appreciate the reliability of the starter motor and the fact that the generator generates a very clean return current. Due to the low cost of generators, one way to increase the real power of a generator is to connect it in parallel to another generator.
Pulsar generators have a one-year warranty, unlike other generator models in this list which have a three-year warranty.
Features:
- Generator type : inverter
- Peak watts : 2,300
- Rated watts : 1,800
- Fuel tank : 1.18 gal
- Start type : recoil
- Engine : 80cc single cylinder 4-stroke OHV
- Run time : 6 hrs. (50% load)
- Weight : 47 Pounds
- Warranty : 1-year limited
The Briggs & Stratton P3000 is quieter than a standard travel generator and has enough power to run a conventional motorized air conditioner. The company has gone to great lengths to make this generator very compact. Therefore, it can take up space wherever you need it. This also reduces the weight of the accessory, which is not a problem if you need to take it with you on the road.
The compact design also ensures a low noise level of less than 60 decibels. It’s one of the slowest motors on the market, but that doesn’t affect performance and it’s also a little quieter.
It has a 1.5-gallon tank and an impressive autonomy of 10 hours on a 25% charge. A telescopic pocket handle and sturdy 6-inch wheels make it easy to move around.
Inverter technology provides a stable, direct and clean power source that keeps valuable appliances and electronics running during power outages. The computer-controlled motor also constantly adjusts to load and other factors.
It’s very quiet and relatively inexpensive, which has earned it the title as the most popular product on Amazon. If you want to see more products from this company, please visit 5 Best Briggs And Stratton Generators Reviewed.
Features:
- Running Wattage : 2600 W
- Starting Wattage : 3000 W
- Parallel Capable : Yes
- Starting Type : Recoil Start
- Noise Level : 58 dBA at ¼ load
- Fuel tank capacity : 1.5 Gallons
- Fuel type : Gas
- Run Time : 10 hours
- Dimensions : 26 x 14 x 21 in.
- Weight : 96 lbs
- Warranty : 2 year limited warranty
The Energizer eZV2200 is powered by a very quiet 125cc 4-stroke engine, making it one of the quietest portable generators on the market. If you’re looking for a relatively quiet generator on a budget, this is a great option.
Although it can be quite loud compared to other generators, you can expect it to be about 57 decibels louder at 100% load, which isn’t too loud for the low price.
At 75% load, the 1.85 gallon tank provides up to 6 hours of run time. Another great feature is EcoThrottle, which automatically adjusts the performance of generator by optimizing fuel consumption and run time.
It’s economical, making it ideal as a backup vehicle in the event of a power outage, while Eco Mode optimizes fuel consumption.
The inverter and generator also protect sensitive electronic equipment such as laptops, mobile phones and tablets from power surges and shocks.
The only downside is that it’s quite bulky at 77kg, so you may need to buy extra wheels to make it easier to transport.
Features:
- Running Wattage : 2000 W
- Starting Wattage : 2200 W
- Engine Size : 125 cc
- Noise Level : 57 dBA
- Fuel tank capacity : 1.85 Gallons
- Fuel type : Gas
- Run Time : 6 hours
- Dimensions : 20.7 x 22.7 x 13 in.
- Weight : 78 lbs
- Warranty : 2-year limited warranty
The Honda EU1000i is a generator that is lightweight and easy to transport. Weighing only 13 kg, it’s light enough to take anywhere.
The handy carry handle and rubber feet make it easy to take it anywhere. The compact design makes it easy to store in the garage, trunk or workshop.
Not only is it easy to carry, it’s also much less messy. Thanks to the efficient design and the noise reduction mechanism, the sound level is 42-50 dB, quieter than a human conversation. This makes it ideal for camping, hand tools and pool parties.
But all these great features are not necessary. Its two-way communication features are top-notch. These reversible features provide a clean and stable power source that can safely operate your valuable equipment.
Plus, the 1000 watt generator is powerful enough for small hand tools and most environmental equipment (including sensitive devices).
Its efficiency is also very high. Depending on the rated load, a single fuel tank can generate electricity for approximately 3.2 hours. This saves fuel and money.
The machine is also equipped with a fuel warning system that alerts the owner when the fuel balance exceeds a certain limit and prompts user to top up as soon as possible.
Features:
- Starting Power : 1000 Watt
- Running Power : 900 Watt
- Displacement : 49.4 cc
- Starting System : Recoil
- Fuel Tank Capacity : 0.6 gal.
- Run Time per Tankful : 3.2 hours @ rated load, 7.1 hours @ 1/4 load
- Dimensions : 17.7″ x 9.4″ x 15.0″
- Noise Level : 50 dBA @ rated load, 42 dBA @ 1/4 load
- Weight : 32.8 lbs
It is also a very quiet generator. It is CARB and EPA certified too. It has an operating power of 1600 watts and a maximum power of 2000 watts.
Any small appliances can be charged via USB and large appliances and tools can be charged via an AC outlet.
It weighs only 51 kg, making it easy to transport. It can run continuously for 7 hours on half a charge and is highly efficient, with a fuel consumption of only 0.14 gallons per hour.
It switches off automatically when it runs out of fuel or oil. It also has an overload protection.
It also has three safety lights for ease of use and can be connected in parallel with a multi-fuel generator.
The generator is very quiet, with a noise level of 53 dB at half load, making it ideal for applications where silence is required, such as camping.
Features:
- Running wattage : 1,600 watts
- Peak wattage : 2,000 watts
- Run Time : 7 hours at 50% load
- Tank Capacity : 14 Gallons
- Engine Type : 4 Stroke
- Start Type : Electronic
- Weight : 51 lbs
Best Quiet Generator: Buying Guide
Everything from foot taps to the roar of aircraft in the air is noisy. Noise is caused by energy particles in the air that cause small variations in atmospheric pressure. When these changes reach our ears, they cause vibrations that our brain interprets as sound.
Sound can be measured in two ways: frequency and amplitude. Frequency refers to the pitch of a sound, such as the high notes of a bass guitar or the high notes of an opera singer. Frequency is expressed in hertz; the lower the hertz, the lower the frequency.
The second measure, amplitude, is the strength of the sound waves or, as it is often called, “volume”. Depending on the method of measurement, it is measured in decibels, abbreviated dB or dBA. The decibel is a pure unit for measuring sound intensity; the dBA is the same unit, but adapted to the human ear.
If you want a quiet generator operating at a lower frequency, you need to know the dBA, which is a measure of how loud the generator is.
Things To Consider Before Buying The Best Silent Generator?
Now that you've read about the 10 quietest generators, how do you choose the best one? This is an important question. Although all of these generators have the same quiet output, they differ in other important ways. This buying guide will tell you everything you need to know about how silent generators work and how to choose a silent generator with the right characteristics.
How Do Silent Generators Work?
Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a truly silent generator. Generator technology is constantly improving, and even though they've become cheaper and quieter, you can still hear a generator running.
The quietest generators on the market typically have a sound level of around 50 decibels. A noise level of 50 decibels is not a problem and it is safe to talk near the generator.
However, 60 decibels is twice as loud as 50 decibels. Many silent generators reach this level under load, and this is the basic sound level for most generators over 3000 watts, such as the Champion Power Equipment 100302. More powerful generators, such as those used on food trucks and large trailers, typically have sound levels in excess of 70 decibels, depending on brand and power rating.
How Much Power Do I Need?
The bigger and more powerful the engine, the more power the generator needs. This means that if you want your engine to be as quiet as possible, you need as small a generator as possible. For example, a 2,000 watt generator reduces noise levels more than a 4,000 watt generator (e.g. Champion 100302).
However, remember that the noise level also depends on how heavy the generator is in relation to its power. A difference of a few hundred watts between the power levels of generators in the same class can have a significant effect on the actual noise level during operation, as can a difference of a few decibels in the noise level at ground level. To understand more about how much power you need, please visit: Tips To Better Determine What Size Generator You Need.
Are Inverter Generators Quieter?
It is true that inverter generators are quieter than conventional generators of the same capacity, but this is because inverter generators are cheaper to run. They are also more efficient, which means that the same variable power can be achieved with a smaller engine.
Some inverter generators use sound-absorbing materials in the casing to make them quieter. Others use a special casing to further reduce the noise generated by the generator motor. The quietest generators are inverter generators.
Inverter generators are also quieter because they are flexible enough to adapt to the load. This means that they do not always run at full speed, but thanks to intelligent throttle control, they maintain a low speed with a load of only a quarter of a revolution. The lower speed makes the generator much quieter, making it one of the quietest on the market.
You may also love reading: Learn Why Inverter Generators are better than Conventional Generators?
Other Highlights
Other aspects to consider are maintenance, configuration, design features and finally price.
Ask yourself:
– Does the generator come with a repair kit and warranty?
– Does it come with a bag, wheels, quality oil and a power cable?
– What is the capacity of the tank and how long can it run continuously?
You also need to decide what your budget is. Even the best and quietest generators cost around $1,000. At this stage, you need to calculate how much power you need. In most cases, the more power you need, the higher the price.
Different Ways To Make Your Generator Quiet
A quiet generator can make life easier for you and your neighbors. However, it is not always possible to find a generator that meets your energy needs and is quiet. Sometimes they can be noisier, but you can reduce the noise with these simple measures.
Place The Generator At A Certain Distance
The most obvious way to reduce noise is to place the generator further away from you. The greater the distance between you and the generator, the less noise you will hear. However, you will need a longer extension cord for the power supply.
If you are camping, your neighbours will hear the noise when you run the generator, but you should also consider the distance between you and your neighbours.
Put It In A Cupboard
Another way to reduce the noise from your generator is to place it in a cupboard. A cupboard helps to reduce the noise from the generator. However, there are some precautions to take when choosing and installing a cabinet and not just placing it.
Make sure the generator has enough room for air circulation to retain heat. Also consider the distance between the outlet and the enclosure.
Adjusting The Position Of The Generator
The sound depends largely on the position of the generator. When the generator is placed in a certain position, low or high-pitched sounds may be heard. Most of the sound from the generator comes from the muffler. To reduce the noise, the position of the unit must be changed.
If the generator is not installed on a flat surface, it will generate more noise and vibration. Therefore, make sure that the generator is installed on a flat surface.
Change The Position Of The Exhaust Pipe To Vertical
Moving the exhaust pipe to a more vertical position will slightly reduce noise. Most generators have horizontal exhaust pipes. In this position the sound can only be directed in one direction, whereas in a vertical position it can be directed in all directions. This helps to reduce the noise level to some extent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a 74 decibel generator sound like?
A sound level of 74 decibels corresponds to the sound level of a standard vacuum cleaner. Portable generators operating at this noise level can be very disturbing.
Which generators are less noisy and cheaper?
The Rainier R2200i is the cheapest generator, but it is relatively quiet.
Although, it’s not the quietest portable generator, but it’s not too noisy for its price. It’s not the most efficient, though.
If you need more power, the Energizer eZV2200 is also cheap and relatively quiet.
How long does a quiet portable generator last?
This depends on two factors.
Firstly, some units are more economical than others. This means that they use less fuel and can run for longer on a single charge.
This is possible thanks to high-tech solutions that regulate engine power according to current fuel consumption.
Secondly, it depends on how many appliances are connected to the generator.
Most manufacturers recommend that portable generators be used with a 25% load. However, if appliances that consume most of the available power are connected, the portable generator will run at almost 100% load and consume more fuel. A typical quiet portable generator is expected to run for an average of 6-8 hours.
What are the EPA and CARB requirements: does it worth buying a generator that meets them?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) certify generators that meet certain emissions standards.
If you don’t plan to buy or use a generator in California, you don’t have to choose an EPA- or CARB-compliant generator. California residents are required by law to purchase a CARB-certified generator.
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Wrap Up
The three most popular silent generators on the market are the Champion 100519, the Generac 6866 and the Pulsar G2319N solar generator. All three are equipped with an inverter and can run in parallel with another generator of the same model.
While Honda generators are expensive, given their reputation, Rainier generators are surprisingly affordable, given their quiet operation and versatility. Rainier generators have an impressive price tag, but the downside is the frustratingly short warranty, which is just one year. The main drawback of the Honda generator is the lack of a USB charging port, otherwise it would be a great option for us to call it a special one.
There are other quiet generators from well-known manufacturers, such as the Briggs & Stratton 30545. If you want to extend the comparison and choose the best deal, now it’s your turn!
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