How To Soundproof Your Generator

How To Soundproof Your Generator

Generators are an ideal solution if you live in an area that experiences regular power outages. Portable generators are also an extremely useful way to have access to power when camping or caravanning. One downside though is that generators can be noisy.

When choosing your generator consider whether a traditional or inverter generator is best. Generally, inverter generators are much quieter.

Of course, all generators produce a certain amount of noise but there are ways of reducing generator noise.

How Can I Make My Generator Quieter?

Here are some suggestions on noise reduction including using a sound-absorbing mat, placing the generator in a shed (taking potential echo into consideration), and making a generator enclosure.

Placing the generator in an enclosure is a very effective way of quieting a generator. There aren’t many pre-made boxes available to buy, so the best solution is to build a soundproof box. Don’t worry, it’s easier than it sounds!

What Materials Do I Need To Build a Soundproof Box For A Generator?

You will need:

• a tape measure
• pencil and paper
• a right-angle ruler
• MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)
• a saw (table or circular)
• MLV (Mass Loaded Vinyl)
• glue
• foam mats
• acoustic caulk (used to seal gaps on the perimeter of sound control walls/floors/ceilings)
• screws and nails
• a hammer and a screwdriver
• ventilation duct
• some vents (to ensure that the generator doesn’t overheat)

How To Build A Soundproof Generator Box

1. Measure

First, measure your generator, double-checking your measurements at each stage to ensure you don’t waste materials. Make a note of them, remembering to add a few extra inches on all sides to leave space for insulation and vents.

2. Cut Your Fiberboard To Size

Using a pencil and right-angle ruler, mark up the fiberboards and cut them to the correct size.

3. Add Holes For The Ventilation Duct

Measure the diameter of the ventilation duct and make two marks on the fiberboard.

1. Place the first mark on the top piece of fiberboard, slightly to the side rather than directly in the centre.
2.  Place the second mark on a board that will be used as a wall and that will be opposite the top hole.

Once you’re all marked up, lay your pieces out with the ‘walls’ on either side of the ‘ceiling’ board in the centre, and the rest surrounding it.

4. Add The Mass Loaded Vinyl

Cut the mass loaded vinyl to match the size of the sides of your fiberboard box. Then glue this to the inside side of your soundboards securing the edges with acoustic caulk. This is your first soundproofing layer.

5. Add The Foam Mats

Your next soundproofing layer is the foam mats. Glue these on top of the mass loaded vinyl, again securing the edges with acoustic caulk.

6. Construct Your Box

Now it’s time to construct your box. Using nails and screws, attach the sides of your fiberboard to one another installing some hinges for easy access.

7. Add Ventilation Duct

Once you have installed vents on your enclosure, use a lot of venting duct to avoid overheating. Place the hoses into the ventilation holes you prepared in step 3, making sure to tighten them in place.

Add a little vent right above the openings and your soundproof generator box is complete.