If you are interested in this article it is surely because you are tired of the incessant noise emitted by your usual generator. Well, you are falling because here, we are going to tell you about a new range of revolutionary generators: the silent generator. And yes, these autonomous devices are able to produce electricity without causing annoying noise pollution. You will also see that beyond this observed discretion, the silent soundproof generator can also have other considerable advantages.
Curious to know more? Well, we invite you to read the rest of this article.
A silent generator? What is it exactly ?
As we all know, generator set is a motorized device specially designed to generate electricity . Basically, it was mainly used to compensate for any power cuts in major public infrastructures such as hospitals, airports or computer centres. But nowadays, the generator set has become much more democratized. Indeed, there are now generator models for individuals that are lighter, more practical and easier to use. And among these models for individuals, there is precisely the silent generator or soundproof generator.
As its name suggests, the soundproof generator is distinguished first of all by the fact that it is “silent” . But that does not mean that it produces absolutely no noise pollution. What we are trying to tell you is that it produces much less noise compared to the usual generators that we are used to using. Its sound level is estimated at around 90 dB, whereas conventional generators can reach more than 105 dB.
How does a soundproof generator work?
A generator works mainly with fuel. Most of the time, it is gasoline or diesel. But there are also a few models that run on natural gas or biofuel. Here, the power delivered by the device is expressed in Watts or Kilowatts. And like all types of generator, this soundproofed version is equipped with an engine and an alternator. Depending on the models, this engine can be 2-stroke or 4-stroke. But concretely, what allows this silent generating set to produce less noise, will you ask me? Well, the principle is very simple. In fact, the device is enclosed in an insulated box, which makes it possible to minimize the noise emitted as much as possible. In appearance, it is very similar to an inverter. This is also the reason why it is often called an “inverter generating set”.
What can make a generator too noisy?
In fact, there are many factors that can influence the noise level of a generating set . First there is the question of the type of engine used. You should also know that a gasoline engine is much less noisy compared to a diesel engine. Engine speed is another factor to consider. The higher the engine speed, the louder the noise level is likely to be. As you can imagine, an engine running at 1500 rpm will therefore make less noise than an engine running at 3000 rpm.
Also be aware that a generator can make a lot of noise if it is not equipped with a closed hood or an encapsulation system. In fact, soundproofing of this type can reduce the sound level of a generating set by up to 15 dB. Finally, an air-cooled engine can also make a lot more noise compared to a water-cooled engine. This is mainly due to the fact that an air exhaust is much larger and therefore produces more noise pollution.
What does the law say about noisy generators?
Be aware that France has legislated on the use of certain devices with particularly noisy heat engines. And precisely, the generator is one of these types of regulated devices. You should therefore know that the classic generator can only be used between 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on working days. On Saturday, you cannot use it outside of 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. And on Sunday, the authorized time slot is from 10 a.m. to noon.
We still recommend that you check with your town hall as these restrictions may vary depending on the location. On the other hand, if you have a soundproof generator , you are not necessarily obliged to respect these time slots. As long as it is enclosed in a soundproof capsule, your generating set can be used freely. You can even use it even at night if you want.
Top 3 reasons to buy a soundproof generator
And yes, in addition to being more discreet, the soundproof version of the generator can also have other considerable advantages. Precisely, in this section, we are going to come back to the main qualities of the silent generator.
1 – Fight against power outages
The soundproof generator can be considered as a reliable energy replenishment alternative . It is particularly practical in places where there is no access to electricity all the time or in the event of a power cut. Moreover, there are totally independent models that can be activated instantly as soon as a power cut occurs.
2 – Put an end to noise pollution
The great thing about the silent generator is that noise pollution is almost non-existent. Indeed, the device produces very little noise, which means that it does not disturb users and even less the neighborhood. The silent generator can therefore be used in any public place, be it a restaurant or a business. You absolutely do not risk disturbing the calm of the customers.
3 – Can be used at any time
Unlike conventional generators, this silent model is not subject to any time restrictions. You will therefore be able to use your device without any problem at any time of the day. If you want, you can even use it in the middle of the night.
The main disadvantages of the silent generator
Despite all its qualities, the generating set also has some non-negligible flaws. And precisely, its main disadvantage is based first on the fact that it is less efficient compared to other types of usual generators. Indeed, to be able to operate silently, this soundproof generator must limit its power as much as possible. You will understand that a silent generator will therefore not be able to supply high-powered devices such as a high-pressure cleaner for example.
In addition, the silent generator also needs regular maintenance to operate properly and maintain its efficiency over the years. And this can be a major inconvenience for those who do not always have the time or the means to take care of it as it should. You should also know that the generator remains relatively heavy, even if it is the lightest of all the generators on the market. Indeed, to transport or move your device, you will still have to make more or less substantial efforts.
How to choose your generator?
On the market, you will find a wide selection of silent generators. But how to know the best models, you will tell me? Well, first of all, you will first have to define your needs. Do you plan to use your generator regularly or only occasionally? Do you want to prioritize the performance of your device or rather its practicality and discretion? What options do you really need? To answer all essential questions and help you make the right choice, here are some criteria you should take into account when making your purchase.
Depending on the type of group
There are several types of generators. It is their energy source that usually makes their real difference. As you already know, on the one hand there are gasoline-powered units and on the other hand diesel-powered units. Gasoline generators, more specifically Unleaded 95 or 98 are often considered the most practical models. Why will you tell me? Well, quite simply because you can easily find gasoline in all service stations. What’s more, gasoline-powered units can run quieter compared to diesel-powered units. Be aware, however, that diesel-powered groups often benefit from better autonomy since diesel burns more slowly compared to gasoline. In other words, we can say thata generator set with a diesel engine is therefore more economical .
Depending on power and energy consumption
The power required from your generator will depend essentially on the types of devices you will have to power. The more numerous and powerful the devices to be powered, the more efficient your generating set will have to be. Generally the average power of a silent generator is around 2 kW or 2000 W. But there are also some ultra powerful models that can reach 3000 W, or even more.
Depending on the sound level
Do you plan to use your device in an already very noisy place such as in a construction site or in a factory? In this case, the noise pollution caused by your generator will probably not cause any problems. On the other hand, if you plan to use your group at home or in rather quiet public places, it will be necessary to check the sound level produced by your device. Generally speaking, the ideal noise level from a quiet generator should be between 50 to 70 dB . In any case, it should absolutely not exceed 90 dB.
Depending on capacity and autonomy
To assess the efficiency of your generator, you will need to consider both its capacity and its range. The best quiet generator will be one that can run the longest using the least amount of fuel. On average, a group of 7 liters capacity should be able to operate for up to 14 hours.
Depending on the practicality
Also remember to consider the practicality and ease of use of your generator. For example, there are devices equipped with an inverter or voltage regulator. This system can automatically calculate the voltage according to the connected devices. To avoid fuming the whole space, it would be best to check that your unit has an oil level gauge. You can also make your life easier by betting on a model with automatic start. Do not forget that the ease of transport is also an important criterion to take into account. Generally, the more powerful a generator , the heavier it is. So remember to find the best compromise between performance and lightness.
Depending on the options offered
The features offered also come into consideration when it comes to choosing a quiet generator . A device that embeds the PVM function can, for example, limit the risk of distortion. There are also group models equipped with a digital screen or an oil gauge. There are even some that stop automatically as soon as the engine oil level is below the norm.
How to properly use and maintain your generator?
As you can surely imagine, a generator should not be used haphazardly. Indeed, the device can produce potentially toxic gases and electricity is always a very dangerous element to handle. First of all, it will therefore be necessary to check the connections as well as the condition of the cables of your group. For safety reasons, it would be best to keep children and pets away from your generator. You should also know that a generating set is generally installed outdoors or in an isolated room with a specific air evacuation system. Why will you tell me? Well, for the simple and good reason that a generator can absorb oxygen in a room and emit gases that are potentially toxic to the body.
Generally, the use of a generator in a house requires the prior installation of an inverter on the main electrical network. This inverter must precisely be located between the electricity meter of the house and the generator. The role of the inverter is to prevent the electrical network of the house from supplying the group or vice versa. As we have mentioned several times in this article, a silent generator also needs regular and specific maintenance. This maintenance mainly consists of regularly replacing fluids and filters. Also remember to grease the moving parts of the unit from time to time to avoid the risk of malfunction.