Investing in the perfect portable generator is tempting because it will give you access to power that you can utilize during emergencies or trips. Once you have narrowed down your favorite generator, you will have to think about protecting the machine in the long run. Buying a protect that will keep the generator covered in times of bad weather will not only prevent damage to the machine but also protect you. We have researched all products available in the market to find the best generator shelter for you. You can either go for shelters, tents, or enclosures depending on the style that you are looking for.
We have listed four products that we think provide amazing value for money. The GenTent 20k Generator Tent Running Cover emerged as our ultimate favorite. The patented design has been created to protect your machine against heavy rain, snow, and winds. It provides a universal fit for all open frame generators. The large door allows easy refueling and helps to maintain natural cooling airflow.
We have taken certain features into consideration when reviewing the products. The type of shelter will depend on your personal requirements. The size will determine how much space it will take up. Different shelters are compatible with different generators, so we have also taken that into account.
Below, there is a table listing all the products. It is followed by the in-detail reviews of each product. Finally, our buying guide will help you make the best choice.
Use for: 10,000W+ open-frame portable generators
If you are looking for a reliable generator shelter, then the brand you should be considering is GenTent. They create affordable products that will allow you to run a generator even when it is raining. These tents are patented and tested independently by labs so that you get your hands on high-quality premium products. The GenTent 20k Generator will protect your machine from damage and keep it safe irrespective of the weather.
If you want to travel with your portable generator, then you should invest in this generator tent so that you can operate the machine at all times. Having the GenTent shelter will protect you from CO poisoning, generator damage, and electrocution. GenTent is known to be able to handle up to 70 mph wind, 18-inch snow load, and even hurricane force precipitation. This universal fit model can be used to open frame generators. It comes with four frame adapters, which you can use for round or square tubular frames. They can also be used for panels.
The polished look for GenTent ensures that it can fit right into any background of your choice. The tent will protect the sensitive electrical areas of the generator and also sheds the water away so that there is no accumulation. It comes with a large “door” so you can refuel the generator easily. The patented waterproof design ensures natural cooling airflow for the generator. It does not mess with the generator operation in any way. You can use this tent for portable generators of up to 10,000 watts and above.
Use for: large portable generators
Next on our list is the Rubbermaid Slide-Lid Storage Shed, which is a great fit for your large portable generators. Named the Best Shed for your generator, this resin/plastic shed is constructed for durability against unfavorable weather conditions. It is designed to remain standing during harsh conditions and comes with a 10-year warranty. The storage shed can also be used to store bicycles, gardening supplies, and others in your yard.
The Rubbermaid Slide-Lid Storage Shed is ideal for those who are looking for a compact-sized yet easy-to-use shed. With the short height, it’s not visible over fences and can keep your generator and other items safe. The access points are also convenient to use, and the shed has a maintenance-free design that is built to last. You can leave the shed outdoors and rest assured that your generator is safe.
Use for: 3,500W to 12,000W portable generators
With the IGAN generator protector, you will not have to worry when you take the machine out on a trip. You will be able to operate your portable generator amidst rain, snow, and any kind of wet weather. It is also designed to hold up against strong winds. You can keep your generator outside without any worry.
The patented design of this product is bound to impress you. The cover will make sure that all the sensitive sections of the generator are enclosed and well-protected. You will find that this product is easy to assemble, and you will be able to set it up in no time. The design is compact and will not take up a lot of space.
This generator cover has been built for heavy-duty purposes, and you can rely on it to prevent damage to the machine. The 100% waterproof tarp weighs up to 9 pounds, and you can use it as a storage or running cover if you wish. It comes with a high-strength frame made of stainless steel that makes it more rigid and firm. The 0.63-inch/16mm thick frame ensures that the tarp is durable. This cover is compatible with most portable generator models that have a tubular or square frame. The hangable skirt system will allow for the safe operation of the machine and avoid CO poisoning, and electrocution.
Use for: 3,000W to 10,000W portable generators
The Champion Storm Shield by GenTent has been built for 3,000 to 10,000-watt portable generators. One of the best tents on the market, it will protect your generator during inclement weather and ensure that you are safe. The best part is that this tent is very easy to install. You can set it up without using any tools at all. It can be installed in just three easy steps because of the self-attaching design. You will be able to use this tent even if you are not great at using tools.
The design of this tent is well though-out and convenient. It comes with a large “door” so you can refuel the machine whenever you feel the need. Moreover, it allows natural airflow and does not hinder the working of the generator. You can be assured that the generator operation will be perfectly safe even when the cover is on. It will not add to your maintenance needs.
With this tent, you will not have to worry about the common health risks accompanying portable generators. You will be able to use your 3,000 to 10,000-watt generator safely without fearing electrocution, CO poisoning, and any type of generator damage. This tent has a strong build and is durable. The waterproof cover comes with high-strength frame rods that are able to withstand winds of up to 70 mph and snow loads of 18 inches. It can also withstand 12 inches of rain each day.
Use for: large portable generators
The Suncast 6′ x 4′ Glidetop Shed has been designed to provide your generator with natural wood-like storage outside the house. Made with all-weather resin material, the shed is able to withstand adverse weather and protect the generator. The sliding lid design gives the user easy access to the machine. This beautiful shed fits in with the outdoor aesthetics and does not look out of space. You can fit the generator comfortably within the shed and use it even when it is raining or snowing. The polypropylene resin panels are double-walled and can resist rain, snow, sleet, etc. easily. The build has been engineered in such a way that it provides stability and durability.
The reinforced floor of the shed has been designed to support heavy outdoor equipment. The rugged and tough floor can withstand rough use and will be able to accommodate even larger generators. With the sliding lids, you will have uninhibited access. If you need to refuel your machine or make certain adjustments, you will have no problem. You can use the padlock hasp to lock the doors in order to protect your generator when it is not in use.
The shed is easy to assemble, and you will not need any heavy tools to get the job done. You can also use the generator enclosure for organizational purposes if you want to multi-task.
While we have listed possible options, the final decision rests with you. After concluding your research, you should be able to narrow down your choices. We have included this buying guide to help you through the process.
In order to protect your generator well, you should buy a protector after some consideration. Your aim should be to make a purchase that will give you value for your money and be a worthy purchase in the long run. A generator shelter has to be weatherproof no matter what. It should be able to protect the machine from rain, heavy winds, snow, and sleet. You should also ensure that the shelter is larger than the generator in order to ensure a comfortable fit. If you are in doubt, go for the larger size. There are lockable tents and enclosures on the market that will keep your machine from falling into the wrong hands. A generator shelter must have ventilation features in order to exhaust heat and maintain proper operation of the machine. It should ideally give you easy access to the generator.
There are three types of generator shelters that you can get your hands on. Tents are the best option if you want to travel with the generator. They are sturdy and portable. Covers are similar to tents, but they come with a stronger frame as a result of which they can hold their shape. Sheds are usually not portable and are designed mainly for storage. However, they provide maximum protection because they cover the generator completely. All three types protect the generator against heat, rain, and snow.
While a waterproof shelter will hold up against rain, it will not be able to keep off snow, hail, and hurricane winds. The waterproof material will simply help the water slide off. On the other hand, a weatherproof shelter will provide all-round protection against all adverse weather conditions. They are sturdier and more resistant to snow, hail, sleet, and heat.
Most generator shelters are made with a waterproof or weatherproof material that is not prone to corrosion. While tents are made with touch plastic or fabric, enclosures are usually built with wood. You should take the durability of the product into account before making your purchase. The stronger and better the construction, the longer it will last.
A generator shelter will serve no purpose if it does not fit the machine properly. When it comes to tents and covers, check the dimensions, and make sure they are slightly larger than the generators. This will ensure a proper fit and leave no gap.
As for sheds, you can go for a bigger size as that will give you space to move about and additional organizational space.
A generator shelter needs to be durable, and a warranty is an indication of the brand’s trust in its product. Suncast offers a whopping 10-year limited warranty on its sheds, while GenTent offers a 3-year limited warranty on its tents. A brand should have efficient after-sale service to tend to any problems.
In order to get the most out of your generator shelter, you should look for extra features. Sheds usually some with noise reduction because the wood prevents the sound from traveling outside. All shelters should ideally come with a good ventilation system so that the generator can run for long hours.
While all the products that we have recommended come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages, we admit that we have favorites.
The GenTent 20k Generator Tent Running Cover is the best generator shelter that provides all-weather protection, and is easy to use. It is large enough to accommodate 10,000W+ open-frame portable generators. The patented design is impressive and will prevent any mishaps when you are using the generator during bad weather. The universal fit makes this tent stand out.
The Rubbermaid Slide-Lid Storage Shed is a highly durable shed that can withstand the harshest conditions. With its resin/plastic construction, short height, and sleek design, it can serve multiple purposes including protecting your generator. It has a 10-year limited warranty and is easy to access.
The IGAN Generator Tent Running Cover can be used for generators ranging from 3,500W to 12,000W. It protects the generator against adverse weather conditions efficiently.
