Can а Generator Get Wet?

Many of us find ourselves asking this question, especially now with the unpredictability of the weather. Sure, it’s summer, but that doesn’t mean it won’t be pouring rain for the majority of us. Rain and snow are an unavoidable part of daily life in many parts of the world, which begs the issue of how people keep their electricity running during these times. The very concept of water with electricity screams hazard for many of us, so it’s no wonder that the idea of being able to use a generator in wet conditions is mind-boggling. We all know the risks present if the electrical panel gets wet. Not only is there a significant chance of damaging the generator, but there is also a considerable risk of electrocution.

However, this isn’t to say there isn’t a solution. Don’t worry. You don’t have to accept your fate and go days without power because it’s raining. There are a few methods for securely operating your generator in wet conditions.

This article covers all the tips, tricks, and safety precautions you’ll need to get through the rainy season unscathed and with a fully charged battery!


Ideal Places to Install Your Generator

First and foremost, the site of your generator is essential. It might be tedious to locate a convenient place for your generator, but it will make a significant difference in your overall comfort and safety in the future.

The following conditions are essential when considering a location to place your generator. You need a flat and sturdy surface to place your generator on to avoid moving around or losing balance. As for the placement site, it’s critical to remember that exhaust contains carbon monoxide, a dangerous chemical that can’t be seen or smelled. So, ideally, you should run your generator outside, away from crawl areas, vents, windows, doors, and in a location with enough ventilation and no dangerous exhaust gas accumulation. It’s crucial to understand that placing a generator indoors, including partially enclosed places like garages, could have deadly consequences in minutes! As such, it is suggested to operate your generator at a distance of at least 10 feet from your home and double as much from any vents, windows, or doors.

Some of the most popular places to place a generator are sheds and detached carports, which also help protect the generator from the weather. If the conditions are met, and there are no flammables close to the generator. 


How to Safely Use Your Generator in Wet Conditions

Now we’ll get to the topic of interest, and the primary reason most of you are here: how to keep the water out!

Generator Covers

Generator covers are the holy grail for campers, RV owners, and homeowners alike. If you plan on using your generator in the rain or snow, generator covers are a popular choice. You can either purchase a generator cover built especially for your generator model, buy a generic cover that will fit your generator, or make one yourself. The cover should not be too tight around your generator since it could cause it to melt or catch on fire. Instead, look for a cover that will protect your generator from rain and snow while allowing the engine to have enough air to function correctly.

The two most common types of generator covers are listed below.

  • Pop-Up Tents/ Canopies

Pop-up tents/ canopies are a great way to cover and waterproof any sensitive parts that you don’t want to get wet, and they have a lot of benefits. For starters, they don’t hinder the generator’s mobility, allowing you to build and dismantle it for movement to other areas quickly. They also help your generator maintain good circulation and promote natural cooling. They’re also reasonably priced and, depending on the brand, can handle strong winds.

  • Steel Enclosures/ Storage Sheds

Another excellent alternative for protecting your generator is an outside steel enclosure. These give a safe way to operate the generator but are extremely costly and require expert installation in most cases. Aside from the expensive cost, another disadvantage of the enclosure is that it isn’t movable. Apart from that, it allows you to open the sides for circulation and send extension cables to wherever electricity is required. If you want to run your generator within the enclosure, make sure you get one that’s big enough to give room on all sides. Alternatively, you may use a storage shed, which provides similar benefits to the enclosure but is more portable and budget-friendly.

As for the DIY crowd, you can find several tutorials online that will walk you through the steps if you opt to build your enclosure. Just make sure there are sufficient ventilation ports to prevent overheating your generator.


When Not to Use Your Generator

Even though the purpose of this article is to teach you how to keep your power running during power outages caused by wet weather conditions, there are certain weather conditions under which you should, regardless of whatever is going on, never run your generator.

We all know how destructive cyclones, hurricanes, and tornadoes can be. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that generators should be avoided during extreme weather. It will be extremely difficult to operate a generator during any storm that threatens your home. Consequently, attempting to use your generator in such hazardous conditions might lead to catastrophic results. Instead, wait until the wind has died down. Keep your generator in a safe location that will not be affected by the storm, and once the storm has passed, you may safely run your generator.


Conclusion

With the help of specific gadgets, you’ll no longer have to worry about getting your generator wet or running it in wet weather conditions. They offer a safe and protective cover for your generator, ensuring that no water gets into the electrical panel and damages it. Just make sure that whichever gadget you select gives your generator enough room and ventilation and that you don’t use it in extreme weather conditions.

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