The Silent Power: Addressing Noise Concerns with Generators

It's safe to say that we never realize how much we rely on power until the electricity goes out. When it does go out unexpectedly, we become aware very quickly. Our appliances no longer function, our entertainment options become limited, and, as evidenced during the winter storm of February 2021, safety can become a very real concern. As the grid continues to age and becomes more stressed by the increasing population, these issues will only grow.

The solution to these issues is to take control of your power. For many Texans, an installed whole-home standby backup Generac generator has become the next most essential home appliance (right after the air conditioner). When the electric utility supply is interrupted during a blackout, we can count on our backup generators to do their job until the power is restored. Generac generators provide power exactly when and where we need it the most, automatically and instantly, with no hassle for the user. They help keep our lights on, our homes cool (or warm), our food safe from spoiling, water pumps pumping, and so much more. Your home operates as it should always operate.

Despite these great reasons and more to have a backup generator, one main concern that most people have regarding these special appliances is the noise level. Because many of us reside in communities governed by homeowners or property owners associations, or by city regulations, we must take these noise factors into consideration.

How Loud is a Backup Generator?

As you probably already know, sounds are measured in decibels (dB). What you might not know is that a standby generator is actually not as loud as you would think. If you consider that a typical air conditioner registers at 68dB, running a Generac whole-home generator should not be an issue, noise-wise. That’s right, a Guardian series Generac whole-home generator comes in at just 66dB.

Here’s a list of common sounds and their average decibel levels for comparison:

• Whisper - 30dB
• Normal conversation - 60dB
• Washing machine - 70dB
• Traffic - 80dB
• Lawnmower - 90dB
• Motorcycle - 95dB
• Football game - 100dB
• Concert - 110dB
• Fire/smoke alarm - 120dB

Sound up to 70dB is generally okay, but noises that remain above 70dB for a prolonged period can damage your ears. Really loud noises, like those above 120dB, can cause hearing loss immediately. Without getting too deep into mathematics, the decibel scale is a logarithmic one, meaning that an increase of 3 decibels doubles sound intensity, but it’s not until a 10dB increase that you perceive the sound to be twice as loud.

Noise Levels of Popular Generators

Besides cost, the noise level is the most common inquiry we get regarding whole-home generators. Here’s how our Generac generators compare to the competition:

• Generac - 66dB
• Briggs & Stratton - 64dB
• Kohler - 69dB

Each of these brands has designed their line of residential generators to reduce noise levels, as they are specifically used in populated areas with neighbors to consider, not to mention the homeowners themselves. For example, you will notice that the enclosure has been created in a very clever way, conceived to mitigate a certain amount of noise emitting from the motor itself.

Can You Reduce the Noise from a Generator?

If you still find the noise level from your generator to be an issue, there are a few options available to further reduce it:

• Acoustic Sound Barriers: These barriers deflect the noise from heading in a specific direction and are perfect for when the sound is carrying into an area you want to change. There are several versions available, from freestanding, portable versions to more permanent solutions.
• Sound-Absorbing Enclosure/Barrier Box: This option mitigates some of the noise from your backup generator and protects it from the elements. In addition to reducing noise, they can also provide a more decorative solution for having a permanent generator for your home. Pro tip: seal the edges and gaps of your enclosure/barrier box with acoustic caulk or foil tape.
• Vibration Dampening Mounts: Also known as isolation mounts, these reduce the amplitude and frequency of vibration waves made by your generator. These mounts, often made of rubber, help keep the shaking caused by the generator from reaching a structure such as your home or garage by absorbing the movements.

A good sound barrier can reduce the noise coming from your generator by up to 20 decibels. You can reduce it by an additional 7 decibels by adding a sound absorption material inside the generator box.

Many of these options can be DIY projects by following online instructions or purchased from several retailers (home improvement, tool and equipment, or online stores, etc.).

If you choose to alter your generator or surround it with an enclosure, it is important to consult a professional and ensure that you aren't going to void the warranty or cause damage to your unit, or anything else.

Do You Have Any Questions?

We love to answer all inquiries regarding Generac's whole-home (or business) generators, including those about noise.

We have the POWER, and so can YOU!

Contact us today to learn more about our backup power solutions and how we can help you enjoy a quieter, more reliable power source.