Generators can be lifesavers when blackouts occur, especially if the power goes out during an emergency. When the noise becomes unbearable, you need to get one of the best quietest generators for your home or office.
Some quiet generators have higher power outputs; others have giant fuel tanks that last longer. But how do we know which is the best quiet generator for us?
You have probably already thought about what kind of generator you will need for your house or business so that you will not have any problems with noise while running it. The following article will help you find the best quietest generator of 2022.
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Criteria to Consider When Buying a Quiet Generator
What makes a generator quiet? Is it the size or the brand? How much power does it produce? What kind of fuel does it run on? These questions and more should be answered before buying a generator.
There are many things to consider when choosing a generator. Some of them include size, fuel type, warranty, and price. It’s best to select a generator based on the needs of your home and family.
1. Fuel efficiency
The most efficient generators use gasoline as fuel. In fact, they use less than 2 gallons per hour. Gasoline-powered generators generate about 1,000 watts per kilogram, but this number will vary depending on how the generator was made.
2. Power output
Most generators are rated by peak horsepower (HP) and peak continuous horsepower (PC). The total HP and PC numbers tell you how much electrical power the generator can deliver over time. However, these ratings aren’t usually enough information to make an informed decision. You need to know what kind of load the generator is designed to handle.
3. Size
If you’re looking at a generator that’s too small, then you’ll waste money every month operating it. You’ll pay for gasoline even though you may never use all the generated power. If you buy one that’s too big, then you’ll need a lot of room to store it.
4. Warranty
Some warranties are good, while others aren’t so great. Even if a warranty covers the generator for 10 years, it doesn’t mean that it will hold up its end of the bargain. Be sure to read reviews online to find out what past customers
5. Inverter vs standard generator
Inverters are expensive, but they do save energy. Most inverters work with batteries. This means that they can keep generating power even when there isn’t any sunlight. Inverter generators run longer than their standard counterparts because they don’t have to turn themselves off during cloudy weather.
6. Price
You shouldn’t spend more than $300 – $500 on a generator. It’s better to spend a little extra now than paying a fortune later.
7. Noise level
Noise levels range between 65 decibels (dB) and 80 dB. Anything above 85 dB is considered loud.
Top 10 Best quietest generator of 2022
There are many models of the quietest generator to choose from, but they all come with different features;
1. Westinghouse WH2200iXLT Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator, Gas Powered
Westinghouse WH2200iXLT Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator 1800 Rated & 2200 Peak Watts is one of the best quietest generators for camping. It can be used as a backup power supply and is great for camping. The powerful engine provides an output of up to 2200 watts, which can run your home appliances. It also has a two-year warranty, making it a very reliable product. The inverter generator comes with many other valuable features such as LCD, fan speed control, overload protection, etc. Its compact design makes it easy to carry around. You can use it anywhere you go.
Westinghouse WH2200i X LT is an excellent choice for those who want a mighty engine size without sacrificing noise levels. With its gas engine, this machine provides up to 2400 watts peak power and 1200 running watts. The motor runs at only 12.5 RPMs, making this model one of the quietest gas generators today.
Features
- Peak Watts: 2200
- Running Amps: 15A
- Peak Amps: 18.3A
- AC Voltage: 120V
- AC Frequency: 60Hz
- Parallel Capable: Yes (WHPC Parallel Cable Sold Separately)
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 1.3 gals (4.9L)
Personal User Experience
I’ve only had it for a day, but I love it so far. I was trying to replace a Ryobi 2200 inverter generator which I thought had gone kaput. It is much “sleeker” than the Ryobi, but everything is contained well with nice smooth lines.
2. Generac GP3500io Open Frame RV Ready Inverter Generator
The Generac GP3500io Quiet Portable Generator is one of the best quiet portable generators in the generating plant industry. This is one of the most popular generators because it features several additional benefits, such as high fuel efficiency and compact size.
Features
- Up to 50% quieter
- PowerRUSH Technology
- True power technology
- RV ready
- USB outlets and parallel ready
- Simple dial control
- 2-Year Limited Factory Warranty
- 30-day Satisfaction Guaranteed
Personal User Experience
I have put 10 hrs on this generator, and it’s running excellent. It starts on the first pull and is as quiet as the Generac IQ 2000 I also own. It powers my camper and air conditioner. It is easily portable.
3. PowerSmart Portable Generator
PowerSmart portable generator provides a 2200 watt continuous rated power. A built-in fuel filter offers protection against gasoline contamination. The unit includes an electronic battery charger that maintains charging and discharging rates within factory specifications. Features include a fuel gauge with digital readout, automatic overload shutoff, a convenient kick start switch, over current. And short circuit protection. The unit also consists of a durable metal housing with rubber feet to provide stability and an extra-large storage compartment for the included extra-long extension cord. PowerSmart Portable Quiet generates minimal noise making it one of the best quiet generators for RV, residential, office, educational, and recreational applications. The unit offers exceptional performance without sacrificing reliability or durability.
The portable inverter generator is specially designed to charge laptops, mini-coolers, drones, other outdoor electronics, and backup for a few home essentials. It features with 2* AC outlet(120V), 2*USB-A ports(5V) and 1* DC carport(12V). The quarter load can run up to 10.5hrs, powering you wherever you go.
Features
- Engine type: 4 strokes, OHV, single-cylinder with forced air cooling system
- Starting Wattage: 2200W
- Rated Wattage: 1900W
- Displacement: 80cc
- Fuel tank capacity: 1.05 gallon
- Run time on quarter-load: 10. Hours
- Volume level: 52 dB at 23 feet
- Weight: 42.5 lbs
Personal User Experience
I’m happy with my purchase; yesterday was the first day I had to use it due to a transformer going out, the lights were out for about seven hours. I turned the generator on and plugged up my 60-inch television, five lamps, MacBook, iPad, iPhone, fan, Router, and modem. I even used my coffee maker a couple of times, but I could hear the generator rev up to run it with everything else plugged up. After running for seven hours, I checked by Eye to see where the fuel level was, and it seemed to have at least a 1/3 a tank left. Based on the length of time it ran yesterday, you could probably run for a straight 10 hours on everything I have plugged up without running out of gas.
4. Honda EU2200i Super Quiet Generator
The Honda EU2200i is an inverter generator with quiet power. This model uses the latest technology for a more silent operation. It has been designed to last long and provide high-quality power generation. The Honda EU2200i inverter comes with Honda’s well-known engine, which offers plenty of power with low maintenance costs. It uses a powerful inverter with an output capacity of 1.2kW (1800 watts), making this unit suitable for all applications. This inverter generator is easy to use and requires no unique expertise, making it the best quiet generator for the money.
This generator comes with a powerful Honda GXR12o engine, making it one of the best quiet generators for camping. It also has a fuel tank capacity of 0.95 gallons, enough to make it run for up to 9 hours. This machine will meet all your needs.
Features
- Tank capacity: 0.95 gallons
- Displacement: 121cc
- Compression ratio: 8.5:1
- Engine Speed: 4000rpm – 4500rpm
- Cooling system: Forced Air
- AC Output: 120V/2200W max. (18.3A); 120/1800 rated (15A)
- DC Output: 12V, 1000W(8.3A)
- Noise level: 62dB @ rated load and 53 dB @ ¼ load.
Personal User Experience
I got in my new Honda EU2200i, put the oil in, put the gas in, set the choke on, a few pulls to prime it, turned the unit on, first pull started. No need to prime further on. You can set the switch off for prolonged storage to drain gas from the carburetor and let it run until it stops, ready to put away. I had a Coleman Mach3 PS AC unit installed on my RV. It runs fine with this generator. They sell the AC units on Amazon also. Make sure to turn your battery charger off in the RV breaker panel and set your refrigerator to run on gas only. This saves over 1000 Watts, so 2200 can run your AC with no problem.
5. WEN 56200i Quiet Portable Generator
The WEN 56200i quiet portable generator is an excellent alternative to noisy gas-powered generators and one of the most silent portable generators. It produces only a fraction of the noise. It is one of the top-rated quiet generators currently on sale. It is equipped with a 3-phase 80 amp main alternator, which delivers up to 2.0kVA. The unit can generate up to 200hp of power, making it the best small quiet generator for powering many appliances simultaneously.
The WEN 56200i produces clean energy that is spikes-free and free from voltage drops. The generator emits much less noise than conventional generators and is similar to an everyday conversation.
This generator has a 79.7 cc 4-stroke OHV engine, functioning quietly at 51 decibels on a 25 percent load. This is quieter than a window air conditioner and makes it a common choice for situations when you want to keep your silent generator as soft as a hunting exercise.
Features
- 3-in-1 switch
- Parallel Connection
- AC Output: 120V, 15A
- 5V USB Port
- Engine: 4-Stroke 79.7cc OHV Engine
- Fuel Tank: 1 Gallon
- Wattage: 2000W Surge, 1600W Running
- Dimensions: 18″ x11″ x18″
- Runtime: 9.4 Hours, Quarter-Load.
Personal User Experience
I fired up mine yesterday for the first time and was amazed at how quiet it ran. The neighbor came over to tell me how surprised he was at how soft it was compared to others he had seen/heard! Plugged into our trailer and ran at about 50% load with air conditioning. Eco mode adjusted the running level and noise accordingly. Easy to lift. I also bought a magnetic dipstick. The generator works as advertised. The noise level was a little loud compared to the Honda. Great value for the money.
6. Generac 7680 GP6500 Silent Generator
What is the best quiet generator? Inverters have become increasingly common in recent years. However, they still produce a fair amount of noise even though they are softer than traditional generators. It’s possible to buy a new inverter-generator that is almost entirely silent. One such example is the Generac GP6500. When it comes to silent generators, the Generac GP6500 silent generator is one of the best quiet inverter generators of 2022. It boasts a total of 11 functions, including a dual-speed fan switch, a 12V input, and an automatic restart function. What’s more, it has a maximum output of 1000w and can generate enough power to run most household appliances for up to 4 hours.
Features
- Large-capacity steel fuel tank with incorporated fuel gauge
- 10.5 hour runtime at 50% load
- .25″ steel-tube cradle for added durability and strength
- kW/Watt: 6500W
- Fuel Type: Gasoline
Personal User Experience
It is easy to assemble a few bits (wheels, handle) to complete it. Poured gas in it, added oil, set the choke, opened the fuel valve, turned the switch to On, and in literally one pull, she started right up! Top-notch generator!
7. Genkins 2300 Watt Portable Inverter Generator Ultra Quiet Gas Powered RV
It has a power capacity of 2300 Peak Watt & 1900 Running Watt powered by GENKINS industrial class 79cc 4-stroke OHV engine. It is not recommended to bring this generator close to water sources since it runs on gas. However, once it’s set up, there will hardly be any sound coming from it.
At 48 lbs, it can be carried around by any grown adult, no lifting tool required, and also it has an auto shut down when low on oil, built-in fuel gauge to help you manage your energy level. Moreover, this best small quiet generator’s unit has adjustable time control and overload protection, so users won’t experience any problems while using it.
Features
- Brand: Genkins
- Wattage: 2300 KW
- Item Dimensions: 21 x 11 x 19 inches
- Weight: 51 Pounds
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Engine Type: 4 Stroke
- Engine Displacement: 79 Cubic Centimeters
Personal User Experience
Great value! Purrs like a kitten and started with one pull. I wish manufacturers would put a little light by the control pan RLS for when you need to see it at night. I also hope it came with a cover of some kind. Testing this weekend but so far, so good. And at this price point with a 2-year warranty, it runs right up there with the best of them! This generator is without a doubt the best in its class. It is quieter than my neighbors Honda 2000i and does everything I need to do. It’s user-friendly, portable, and easy to start. All in all, I’m delighted with it. I just purchased another to parallel them together.
8. Champion Power Equipment 100302
The champion power equipment is compatible with natural gas and gasoline. It has quiet technology and extended run time. As far as performance goes, it can supply up to 4000 watts of power and last up to 24 hours. Users can select between two different speeds: low and high, making it the best quiet generator for camping. Furthermore, it has an overload shutdown feature that prevents the engine from overheating and also provides clean electricity for sensitive electronics: RV Ready with a 120V 30A RV, plus two 120V 20A household outlets with clean power (less than 3% THD) and 12V DC outlet with dual USB adapter.
Features
- Starting Wattage: 4000W.
- Running Wattage: 3500W.
- Engine: 4-stroke 224cc OHV.
- Fuel Tank: 2.9 Gallon.
- Run Time: Up to 17 hr.
- Assembly Required: No.
- Product Dimensions: 20.5″ x 17.9″ x 17.7″
- Included Items: USB Adapter, Battery Charging Cables, Oil Funnel
Personal User Experience
This is one of the better generators I’ve owned, and I can recommend it for several situations. Bought this for camping off the grid. The camper has 15k AC and wanted a generator to power it. Read about inverters and decided to go that style. This generator is perfect for what I do. I can, for a fact, tell you it’s softer than a regular open frame generator even when ECO mode is off. Yeah yeah, it’s not as quiet as a fully enclosed inverter. But that’s what champions themselves say.
9. DuroMax XP12000EH Silent Generator
This model has been highly rated by users and received excellent customer reviews as the best quiet generator for the money. It features a lightweight design, an easy-to-use interface, and a high maintenance ratio. If you want something that doesn’t emit too much noise but still needs to do its job reliably, then DuroMax is the right choice. The XP12000EH is powered by a DuroMax, 457cc OHV engine with dual-fuel technology and can run on propane or gasoline, allowing the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice.
Features
- Engine Type: 4 Stroke
- Engine Displacement: 457 Cubic Centimeters
- Wattage: 12000 Watts
- Dimensions: 30 x 29 x 26 inches
- Weight: 224 Pounds
- Voltage: 240 Volts
Personal User Experience
Amazing generator, super quiet, runs the whole house during outages. 3 yr parts warranty, it has excellent adjustment for delicate work to be portable is everything.
10. Generac 7676 GP8000E Portable Generator
Although it shares many similarities with other units, it does come with some unique features. First of all, it uses a diesel engine instead of an electric motor. Secondly, it is a quiet generator that produces just 48 dB of noise. Additionally, it is the most silent portable generator for 2022. This is due to its petite size, perfect for those who need a compact yet efficient generator. It has a maximum output of 10000 Starting Watts and 8000 Running Watts.
Features
- Brand: Generac
- Wattage: 8000 watts
- Dimensions: 27.2 x 27 x 26.5 inches
- Weight: 214 Pounds
Personal User Experience
As a few of the couple hundred thousand folks without power this fall, I knew I needed a sound generator. I was amazed that Amazon Prime indeed delivered, bless them. This Generac has started for the first e and is easy to operate. It has plenty of power to run the refrigerator, well, lights, and a little heater. I use this generator in California, where PG&E is shutting off our power for days on end. This thing runs my whole 2000sf house minus the a/c. It’s good on fuel and starts right up when needed—the excellent portable solution instead of the costly built-in type generators.
Conclusion
Today’s technology makes it possible to generate plenty of power without much noise. Quiet generators provide many benefits, including less noise pollution. Generators can be a lot quieter than you might think; however, the benefits of being quiet aren’t limited to the environment. Quieter generators also provide better performance. For example, some models can power your whole house or RV when connected to your existing electrical system.
So, whether you need to run an AC unit or power your home, office or an entire RV, there’s a quiet outdoor generator that’s ready to do the job without making much noise.
