How to Make A Generator Quiet As A Cricket
If you are enthusiastic about camping, natural lifestyle, and outdoor adventures, you must know the importance of a generator. Every camper needs a small or medium size generator, including cell phone chargers, lights, refrigerators, air conditioners, and other appliances. However, the noise of the generator is a big headache for the campers as it ruins the peace and comfort of nature. So, today we will see how to make a generator quiet. Is it even possible?
Using a solar generator is a good first step towards noise-free camping. For example, the Jackery solar generator 1000 has enough capacity to power your essential appliances, yet it is safe and noise free. Solar generators do not use fossil fuels; thus, there are no toxic fumes, so it looks like a win-win situation.
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- 1002Wh capacity, 1000W output, 2000W peak - The industry-leading BMS ensures a constant and continuous power supply to keep your equipment safe. - it is easy to transport because of being lightweight and portable. - Fast charging with solar panels, wall outlet, and carport. - Multiple output ports allow you to connect various devices to the generator simultaneously. |
Why Are Generators Loud?
We will need some background knowledge about why generators are loud before discussing how to make a generator quiet. Portable generators have engines that produce electrical power. Since these engines have heavy mechanical parts that move a lot during operation, there is vibration and noise. The general range of noise is 60 to 90 decibels; however, it can increase significantly. The reasons for the increase in noise levels can be the age and condition of the engine, bad configuration, or a broken part.
How to Make A Generator Quiet At Home or Camping?
How to make a generator quiet? There are many methods and tricks that you can employ to make your generator reasonably quieter. Let us see them one by one.
1. Choose a Generator According to Your Needs
Choosing the right generator size and type is your first step towards the journey of how to make a generator quiet. The noise levels of different generators can vary depending on the size, type, and fuel selection. The criteria for the best-fit generator for your requirement depends on how much noise it produces, its capacity and power output, the fuel it uses, etc. Let us discuss the main types of generators and their noise levels.
Propane Generators
Propane generators are powered by a more environmentally friendly fuel, i.e., gasoline. They produce less noise than gas generators. You will also find dual-fuel generators that may use both gas and propane. A propane generator producing 7,000 watts can be as loud as 68dB from 20 feet away. It is almost the same amount of noise a car makes; however, it is more noticeable when running for a long time.
Gas Generators
The biggest downside of a gas generator run by gasoline is the emission of carbon monoxide, which is a safety hazard. They are quite noisy as well. An average gas generator produces around 80-1000 decibels, even over the safe noise threshold.
Solar Generators
Solar generators are the quietest and the most environmentally friendly portable generators. If you are wondering how to make your generator as quiet as a cricket, a solar generator is your answer. Solar generators only have the noise of their inverters, which is in the range of 50 to 60 dB, which is considered quiet.
You can find a wide range of capacity in the Jackery solar generator line. These generators are noise-free, fumes-free, and weather resistant. Hence these generators are the perfect choice for camping, household backup, RVing, kayaking, picnics, and other outdoor adventures.
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Generator Types |
Pros |
Cons |
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Solar Generator |
1. Noise Free 2. No Toxic Fuels 3. Less Carbon Footprint 4. Safe for appliances 5. Low maintenance |
1. High upfront cost 2. It may not be efficient enough in the cloudy or rainy season
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Gas Generator |
1. Easy to use 2. Less expensive 3. Easily available fuel |
1. Loud 2. Toxic fumes 3. Less efficient 4. High maintenance |
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Propane Generator |
1. Environmentally friendly 2. Low maintenance 3. Works in extreme cold 4. Less carbon footprint |
1. Moderate noise 2. High upfront cost. 3. Less output production 4. Less fuel efficiency |
2. Reposition The Exhaust Pipes Up or Away from You
The position of the generator’s exhaust pipe also affects the noise level, especially outdoors. The best option is to position the exhaust pipe in the opposite direction of your camp or any other living area.
3. Increase The Distance
The more the distance of the generator from your living area, the less the noise level. The recommended distance between the living area and the generator is at least 20 feet. You can also use a long generator extension cable to increase the stretch.
4. SetupThe Generator on a Soft Surface
When you place your generator on a hard surface like asphalt or concrete, the vibration combined with the banging on the hard surface makes the noise even worse. Setting your generator on a soft surface like grass or dirt can significantly reduce noise.
5. Use Sound Deflectors
How to make a generator quiet? Using sound deflectors is another solution. Sound deflectors are not specific equipment, as simple plywood sheets can effectively deflect sound. You only need four 4 x 3 feet sheets of plywood with one sheet of non-flammable material such as drywall. You'll only need four sheets of plywood and a sheet of non-flammable material. Place these sheets against the generator at an angle and the drywall sheet on the exhaust side. You are good to go!
6. Build An Acoustic Enclosure or Muffle Box
Enclosing your generator in a muffle box also significantly lowers the noise level as it captures the sound waves. The muffle box is also very easy to make. You will need wood panels, L-brackets, a quiet board, and foam sealer. It is also important to keep holes in the side of your box where your generator's exhaust is placed.
7. Replace Your Muffler
How to make a generator quiet? If your generator is old, it might have a higher noise level than the same type of new generator. A faulty muffler is a frequent cause of noisy old generators. A good engine mechanic can easily check and fix the new muffler if required. It should make the noise level considerably low.
8. Use Water As A Muffler
Water is a natural sound muffler; thus, you can use it to lower the sound level. You can build a water muffler using a bucket full of water. Use a hose pipe to connect the generator's exhaust and put its other end into the bucket.
9. Use an Anti-Vibration Mat
As we already discussed, placing the generator on a soft surface also helps to make it less noisy. Similarly, we can use a rubber anti-vibration mat to absorb the sound.
Jackery Solar Generators with Lower Noise Level
The Jackery solar generators series have almost quiet operation apart from small noise from the inverter. These generators are available in various capacities and specifications, so you will always find a product for your requirement in the series.
Jackery Solar Generator 300
The Jackery solar generator 300 is the smallest in the series, offering 293Wh capacity. It is compact and lightweight, making it perfect for all outdoor adventures. This generator model is 40% smaller and 35% lighter than its contemporary products. How to make a generator quiet? Jackery's solar generator is already quiet, so you do not have to make other arrangements.
User Review:
"The Jackery solar generator 3000 is my best purchase. While camping, I can charge my laptop and cell phone to remain connected with my workplace and family. Small but very useful indeed." - Kevin
Jackery Solar Generator 500
The Jackery solar generator 500 offers you a 518Wh power capacity that is enough for small to medium size appliances. Also, it comes with seven output ports so you can plug in multiple devices simultaneously. The built-in MPPT module monitors the solar panel’s voltage and output to ensure maximum recharging efficiency.
User Review:
"I recommend the Jackery solar generator 500 for camping and RVing. Though it cannot power my big power eater appliances like air conditioners and heating, I always camp in moderate weather, so most of the time, I don't even need ACs, etc. "- John.
Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro
The Jackery solar generator 1000 Pro can power multiple devices simultaneously with a battery capacity 1002Wh. The main features of this generator are noise-free operation, industry-leading BMS, pure sine wave technology, 94V-0 fire rating material, and lightweight, portable design.
User Review
"We live in an area with frequent power outages and need electrical power support for our disabled son. The Jackery solar generator 1000 Pro has solved many of our problems. It is lightweight, low maintenance, weather resistant, and easy to operate. It helps us to make our son's routine undisturbed even in harsh weather and power outages." Mary John
Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Pro
The Solar Generator 2000 Pro has a charging capacity 2,160Wh and very fast recharging statistics. Using 6 SolarSaga 200W solar panels, you can charge this generator in only under 2.5 hours. At the same time, the AC wall outlet takes only 2 hours.
User Review
"I have been using Jackery 2000 Pro for the last six months. Not a single maintenance work so far. I can trust it to be used in my family house as it has an LED display to show the charging stats, and its BMS and MPPT technology ensures the safety of my equipment. Loving the experience so far." Kadir
Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus
How to make a generator quiet and still have enough power to run big appliances. The Jackery solar generator 2000 plus is your answer in such conditions. It has an expandable capacity of 2-24 kWh. It can power big appliances up to 6000W. Its advanced IBC technology facilitates ultra-fast charging within 2 hours.
User Review
"A great buy; it is such a quiet yet powerful. Highly Recommended!" - Isabelle
Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro
This is the highest-power solar generator in the Jackery series, with a large capacity of 3024 Wh. It can support all your electricity needs and up to 99% of appliances. Despite its high-power output, you can charge it within six to eight hours using solar panels. Multiple output ports, three charging sources, i.e., solar panels, wall outlet, and carport. Its 30 dB noise level makes it the perfect solution to how to make a generator quiet as a cricket.
User Review
"My best investment in the power needs. This large generator has significantly helped me reduce my electricity cost. I feel like my own boss with the self-sustainable power generation at such a low cost." -Martin.
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Series |
Capacity |
Noise Level |
Recharging Time |
Appliances |
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Solar Generator 300 |
293Wh |
30 dB |
Solar Panel: 5H Wall Outlet:4.5 H |
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Solar Generator 500 |
518 Wh |
37.9 dB |
Solar Panel: 2.8 H Wall Outlet: 7.5H |
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Solar Generator 1000 Pro |
1002 Wh |
46 db |
Solar Panel: 1.8 H Wall Outlet:1.8 H |
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Solar Generator 2000 Pro |
2160 Wh |
Less than 53 db |
Solar Panel: 5.5 H Wall Outlet: 2 H |
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Solar Generator 2000 Plus |
2042.8Wh |
30 db |
Solar Panel: 2-7 H Wall Outlet: 2H |
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Solar Generator 3000 Pro |
3024Wh |
30 db |
Solar Panel: 6-7.5 H Wall Outlet:2.4 H |
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How to Choose a Solar Generator?
When you are looking for how to make a generator quiet, your first step must be to make the right choice while choosing a generator. As we have already established that a solar generator is a quiet option, let us see how to choose one.
Capacity
The most important factor when choosing a solar generator is its capacity. You should have an estimation of how many watt hours you need and then select a generator accordingly. For example, you will need a high-capacity generator if you want air conditioning or heating for longer hours. However, a small 300 or 500-Wh unit is enough for lighting, cell phone charging, and small appliances.
Portability
Solar generators are versatile in the sense that solar power is available everywhere. So if you are going camping, RVing, or picnics, you can take your solar generator and use the control. However, in this scenario, your generator must be lightweight and portable. Interestingly, Jackery even has portable solar panels that occupy very small space.
Battery Type and Capacity
Sunlight is available for a part of the day, so the solar generator needs a battery to store the energy when sunlight is not there. You can use several types of batteries in solar generators, including sealed lithium-ion, lead acid, and nickel metal hydride. Choose the one that is the most suitable for you.
Life
Strong build and weather resistance are two critical factors in increasing the life of any generator. It would help to look for generators built with strong materials like aluminum or steel. Waterproofing and extreme temperature are also important.
Safety
Overcharging, overheating, and short circuits are possible if the generator is not built according to safety guidelines. The Jackery generators are equipped with BMS and MPPT technologies making them the safest option.
Output Ports
Multiple and different types of ports should be available in a generator to make all the appliances and devices compatible. AC, DC, and USB ports should all be open.
Quiet Solar Generator FAQs
1. What size of solar generator do I need for camping? Or for home?
A camping solar generator is compact and portable, providing enough power to run essential devices. Jackery's 500, 1000, and 1500 series are the best for camping and outdoors.
On the other hand, a home solar generator should have enough large capacity to power big appliances like refrigerators, ACs, TV, and others. Jackery's 3000 Pro and 2000 Plus are great for home backup.
How to calculate the working hours of a solar generator
Working time = Capacity Wh * 0.85 / operating wattage of your TV
For example, a small window AC takes 500W.
The Jackery solar generator 1000 Pro Working time will be 1002Wh * 0.85 / 500w = 1.7 hrs.
These estimates are based on 85% efficiency of the generators. There is always some power loss during transmission and operation. By multiplying by 0.85, we incorporate a 15% loss of efficiency to make the estimates more accurate and reliable.
2. Can I put a silent box for my generator?
A silent box can significantly lower the noise levels of your generator. It would help to make a box big enough to house your generator. You will have to screw down a layer of mass-loaded vinyl. Now, fill in the gaps with green glue. Now, add some acoustic foam over the top as well.
Also, ensure there are ventilation holes so your generator is not overheated and breaks.
Final Thoughts
How to make a generator quiet is a very frequent question. Diesel and gas generators use engines to generate power, and the movement of mechanical parts can make them noisy. Using noise boxes, anti-vibration mats, mufflers, and generally maintaining generators helps reduce the noise. Additionally, we have discussed above that solar generators are almost noise free. The noise level of Jackery solar generators ranges between 30 to 50 dB, considered safe and quiet.
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