The main reason behind getting a generator in the first place is to get emergency power backup in power outages. Power outages are common mostly in natural disasters like hurricanes, heavy fall, rain, or while camping. So, running the generator in a harsh environment, such as rain, fall, or a wet environment, should be normal. Electricity doesn’t like wet touch, and a generator produces electricity, and it becomes a tough job to run it in wet weather.
However, if you have been wondering how can you run a generator in the rain, I’m here to help. I will get you through all the possible ways to run a generator in the rain, snow, or any other natural disaster. Stick to the article to know how you don’t have to be worried about power outages and don’t have to stay in the dark.
Can You Run A Generator In The Rain
Running a generator in the rain, snowfall, or a wet environment can be dangerous unless you take precautions before running it. Here, I’ll talk about the ways of how can you run a generator in the rain or any sort of wet weather:
How Do I Protect My Generator From Rain?
Protecting your generator from the rain has several ways; here are the most practical and effective ways to do it:
Get a weather cover
Getting a generator cover canopy will be a good option for you if you’re using a small generator outdoors, especially while camping. It will be the best option for those who have a narrow space for storing the shade for the generator. These generator covers are a type of canopy or tents that you can attach to any portable generator. No matter how large a portable generator you may have, from 200 watts to 10000 watts, a tent will cover it all from rain and fall.
Get a storage shed
If you’re setting the generator beside your home and don’t have a separate house, get a storage shed. Measure the generator and get the shade size according to the size you need. These shades have proper ventilation and full protection from any natural disaster, rain, fall, or mild storm. One downside of these enclosures is, you cannot move it around in the back of your car. Plus, it’s not recommended to use a generator inside solid isolation like these without sound insulation and proper ventilation.
Make an enclosure yourself
You can make an enclosure yourself with some wooden planks and an exhaust system. To make one, measure the space you need, make a little home for the generator with a good breathing space inside. Give the base a good amount of insolation with soft rubber feet or foam so that you have less vibration as well. Make sure you add an attic exhaust fan and a ventilator to keep the hot air out. Anchor the whole structure into the ground using bolts so that the storm doesn’t tear it apart.
Build a permanent shade
If you’re a DIY enthusiast, this option could be a lifesaver for you as there are tons of ways to experiment. Please make a small shade for the generator with all the processes. I’ve mentioned making an enclosure for the generator. In this case, the shade would be a permanent one with a full home-like design, which you can use as a storage as well. You can make it soundproof if you have neighbors close by who’s not a fan of the sound of your generator. Don’t forget to take the muffler rod outside and point it a downside to isolate sound and keep water out.
How To Run A Generator In The Rain
If you’re operating a generator in the rain or wet weather after rain or fall, you should be aware of accidents. Here are some tips you can follow to stay safe and operate your generator perfectly:
Get safety measures.
When you’re starting the generator and connecting the power outlets, make sure you have a dry hand. You can wear a pair of gloves to do the job if you have a wet hand, especially if you’re using a metal enclosure for the generator. Check that all the cables are in good shape, have no tearing or leakage that may cause an accident.
Use the tent properly
If you’re using a portable and foldable tent canopy, make sure you have it in a proper size that goes with your generator size. Keep the orientation correct and put it on the generator properly, leaving the muffler exhaust on the open side. Never put the canopy in a way that covers the muffler; it will suffocate it and make it heat up.
Frequently Asked Question
Here are the most frequently asked questions about running a generator in the rain or wet weather you should know about:
Do you need to cover a generator in the rain?
Can generators be left in the rain?
Will rain ruin a generator?
Check Out the Following Tips to Learn How You Can Run a Generator in the Rain or Snowfall
Final Thought
Natural disasters can cause a lot of problems, and nobody has anything to do but take precautions. Getting a generator can help you gain power backup for any situation from a power outage to camping in the wild. You can get a portable generator for RV, boat, or your home, getting power backups. It can be an obligation, sometimes running it in a wet environment, even rain or storm.
If you’ve been wondering how can you run a generator in the rain or snowfall, I hope you know how to do it now. However, getting the right machine can keep you on the safer side, such as getting a generator with outlet sealing. All you have to ensure the humidity or rain don’t catch the electric components to keep it and yourself safe.
