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Are Predator Generators Quiet?

When buying a generator, one of the factors most critical to convenience is the level of noise generated during its operation. Certain brands of generators are quieter than others. So what about Predator generators?

Predator generators are quiet and make relatively little noise working under a smaller workload. However, Predator generators come in a variety of models, and the sound output can vary. The Predator 3500 generator makes the least noise with just 57 decibels at a standard workload for the model. 

Predator 3500 Super Quiet Inverter Generator, Red

The rest of this article will explain how you can reduce a generator’s noise and help you consider other factors when buying a generator so you make the best quality purchase for your money. It will also go over how to take care of generators for longevity.

Are predator generators quiet

How to Reduce a Generator’s Noise?

Generators work to produce electricity from fuel. This process produces sound energy that is emitted into the environment. With conventional generators, there is additional noise that comes from the engine rattling inside the casing. Inverter generators, like the Predator 3500, are designed to reduce the movement of the engine. Watch the video below to see its sound output in the natural environment:


https://www.youtube.com/embed/vrt0_DtpuUU?start=94

As you can see, the further you move away from the generator, the more its sound disappears into the environment. Therefore, you should get an electric extension that allows you to be far from the generator. Doing so is especially helpful during camping trips. 

If your utilities need little power, Tripp Lite is highly recommended. Incorporating it into your set-up will further protect against power surges and afford you the freedom to camp an additional 25 ft away from your generator. However, if you use the generator with your RV, avoid long cables to produce an additional generator load.

Tripp Lite 8 Outlet Surge Protector Power Strip, Extra Long Cord 25ft, Right-Angle Plug, Lifetime Limited Warranty & Dollar 75K Insurance (TLP825)

How Long Do Predator Generators Run?

Predator generators can run up to 16 hours with enough fuel. The fuel capacity varies from model to model. You can view the generators’ fuel capacity and runtime by model below:

Generator Model Fuel Type Amount of Fuel Generator Runtime
3500 Watt Inverter  87+ octane, stabilizer-treated Unleaded Gasoline 2.6 Gallons 11 hours at 25% capacity
Predator 2000 Watt Inverter 87+ octane, stabilizer-treated Unleaded Gasoline 1 Gallon 12 hours at 25% capacity
Predator 9000 Watt Max  87+ octane, stabilizer-treated Unleaded Gasoline 8 Gallons 13 hours at 50% load
Predator 4375 Watt Max 87+ octane, stabilizer-treated Unleaded Gasoline 4 Gallons 16 hours at 50% load
Predator 6500 Watt Max  87+ octane, stabilizer-treated Unleaded Gasoline 8 Gallons 14.5 hours at 50% load
Predator 4000 Watt Max 87+ octane, stabilizer-treated Unleaded Gasoline 4 Gallons 10 hours at 50% load

Please note that variations of the above model may be available with different specifications.

How to Operate a Generator Safely

Whether you are setting the generator up with an RV or wish to use one to power up a vacation cabin, there are a few precautions you should take to keep yourself and your surroundings safe.

  • Run the generator on a level surface. If the generator is tilted 10 degrees or more, some parts of the engine may not get lubricated and run dry. 
  • Don’t refuel while the generator is hot. The danger of refueling a hot generator is that you may spill gasoline onto the hot engine. This minute slip-up can cause an explosion.
  • Keep the generator away from your home, cabin, or tent. Carbon Monoxide poisoning is a serious risk when you are running a generator in a confined space. Even outdoors, make sure the generator is as far away from you as possible, so you and those around you aren’t inhaling any Carbon Monoxide.
  • Do not overload the generator. Always run the generator at under 50% of its output capacity to avoid creating a fire hazard. This is especially true when using generators for camping.
  • Store fuel in a galvanized container. Make sure the flammable fuel is stored securely. It is advisable to use Eagle Galvanized Steel Containers to secure your fuel. 
Eagle UI-50-FS Red Galvanized Steel Type I Gasoline Safety Can with Funnel, 5 gallon Capacity, 13.5″ Height, 12.5″ Diameter,Red/Yellow

How Often Should I Service My Generator?

Once every two years, you should take the generator to a professional for servicing. It is safer and will make sure you are not risking the generator’s lifespan by trying to self-service.

Are Generators Allowed on Campsites?

Generators are usually allowed on campsites if they produce less than 60 decibels of noise. Predator 3500 inverter produces no more than 57 decibels, making it ideal for camping trips.

Do I Need to Protect My Generator From Sunlight?

It is advisable to protect your generator from direct exposure to sunlight and water (from rainfall or otherwise). One of the best ways to make sure your generator is protected on a camping trip is by using a canopy like the Quik Shade Expedition. If you are installing the generator at home, you should also install a permanent wooden shade to protect the generator from the weather. Quik Shade Expedition 12 x 12 ft. Slant Leg Canopy, Twilight Blue

How Do I Keep My Generator From Being Stolen?

If you are camping outdoors, you may have the generator placed 20 feet away. To make sure your generator does not get stolen, you can use SIGTUNA Bike locks to secure the generator to a heavy object or a pole that is firmly grounded in the surroundings. 

SIGTUNA Bike locks – 16mm Heavy Duty U Lock with U-Lock Shackle and Bicycle Lock Mount Holder + 1200mm Steel Chain Cable Bike Lock

Generator Maintenance Tips for Longevity

A generator may be required once in a while, so risks collect dust in a shed where it might depreciate in performance. To make sure your generator can serve you for a long time, consider the following tips.

  • Change the oil after the first 30 hours of use. Fresh oil helps keep the engine performing with minimal resistance. 
  • If you plan on storing the generator for a long time without using it, make sure to drain the fuel from its tank. You can use a gas stabilizer and run the generator until it runs out of fuel. However, if there is a lot of fuel in the tank, you can siphon it in a safe environment (avoid sparks, static electricity, etc. to avoid combustion of the fuel).
  • If your generator has an electric start, make sure the battery is fully charged before putting the generator away for storage.
  • Change the sparkplugs to keep.
  • Make sure to use the generator once in a while to keep its internal mechanism trained.

Final Thoughts

When you are buying a generator, make sure its specifications match your needs. Whether you want one for camping or house emergencies, it is best to have a quiet generator. Predator inverter generators are quiet, and with a long cord and an electric extension, the sound they produce is likely to disappear into the environment. 

If you buy one for your camping trip or your RV, make sure to be safe while operating it. Finally, store your generator on an empty fuel tank and use it every once in a while to keep it functional and extend its lifespan.

Author

  • Chris Hewitt

    Chris is a Texas-based freelance writer who loves the outdoors and working in his garage. When he's not enjoying the Texas sun, he can be found tinkering with all sorts of things in his workshop.

    View all posts

Chris is a Texas-based freelance writer who loves the outdoors and working in his garage. When he’s not enjoying the Texas sun, he can be found tinkering with all sorts of things in his workshop.

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