If you have a generator that lets you point the exhaust pipe upwards at the sky, you can also do that. Either position will direct the sound away from you!
There may be limitations, especially if you share a campsite with others or have a small yard. Be courteous to the people around you, and place the generator somewhere that won’t bother them. If you have a shed or detached garage on your property, either would be a great place to set up a generator to ensure you don’t hear it in your home.
Hard surfaces amplify the noise and vibrations produced by a generator. Avoid positioning it on any kind of concrete, wood, or asphalt.
Position the generator slightly higher up than the bucket and make a small pinprick in the hose. This prevents water from getting into the generator and pressure from building up. Test the generator after setting up to ensure it works! While this works for a quick fix for camping or running the generator for a few hours, it’s best to find a different long-term solution.
Make sure you have enough plywood to totally surround the generator. Generally, each sheet should be around 4 feet (1. 2 m) wide and 3 feet (0. 91 m) tall. However, that can vary based on your generator size.
Measure your generator. Use the measurements to determine the size of your box, leaving enough space inside to fit the generator, plus the vinyl and foam panels that will cover the box’s interior. Cut 6 plywood sheets to the desired size. These will be the sides of your box. Make holes in the top sheet for the generator’s ventilation duct. Measure the duct first, so you know how big to cut the hole! Cut 6 pieces of MSV for each side of the box and 6 pieces of acoustic foam paneling. Make sure each has a ventilation hole to match the box. Attach the MSV to the interior sides of the box with a staple gun. Then, attach the foam panels to the MSV with a spray adhesive. Seal the sides with Green Glue, and construct the wood box.
Since there are many types of generators, a new muffler might also need to be custom-fitted to yours—another reason why speaking to a mechanic is so helpful.
Silencers are more narrow and tube-like than typical mufflers. They don’t come with any mounting kit or extra supplies, as they’re designed to slip on easily and quiet the generator’s exhaust.
However, if you need to power large appliances like a refrigerator, you may need to get a larger generator in the 4000-6000 watt range. Maintaining air conditioning or a water heater can take upwards of 10,000 watts.
Most noise reduction techniques can’t completely block out the sound from a gas generator, but electric generators don’t make any sound—making them highly convenient!
