When nature comes calling, a lot happens, and we’re forced to find a better way to get our lives running, and the best part is, a generator comes quite in handy. And as you well know, power outages are more common than you might think when it’s raining, snowing, or during the wet weather.

And the big question that comes in mind is, can you run a generator in the rain, snow, or wet weather? Of course not! A generator can never get wet while running. That means you have to protect it with all you have to ensure no water gets to it.

What are the precautions of running a generator in wet weather, rain, or snow?

Generators are machines designed to produce electricity using fuel. That means you got to be careful while handling it, especially during wet weather, snow, and rain. Here are some of the precautions you need to consider while operating it during these conditions.

#1. Your generator Cannot Get Wet

Your generator should never get wet. Any wetness could lead to electrocution or explosion. That might hurt anybody nearby but, more importantly, cause damage to your generator. And you know what, moisture getting into the generator outlets can get things even worse. To keep your generator working optimally, you must protect it from all forms of water, including moisture.

#2. Avoid Floodwaters

While keeping the generator away from moisture, keep your generator in a place that cannot collect any water or flood. Most people do overlook the detail while placing their generator. That means you must avoid placing your generator downhill areas. And always keep an eye on the spot you set the generator for rising water level.

#3) Avoid Running your Generator Indoors

The number one rule in using a generator is to keep the generator far from your house, especially from the doors and windows. But why? Well, if you never knew, well, one reason is that generators produce lethal fumes, the CO. That can lead to CO poisoning that accumulates in confined in enclosed spaces.

The worst part is, Carbon Monoxide is a deadly killer that is colorless and odorless. Besides this, it’s heavy than air. That means it settles under, pushing air out of the room and suffocating anything that breathes.

That’s why the best place for your generator at least 20-feet away. It would be best if you kept in mind this next time you’re searching for a cover to place your generator when snowing, raining, or using the generator during wet weather. Put your generator outdoors in a well-ventilated space.

#4) Avoid Using Generator in Hurricane or Adverse Weather

Hurricanes and tornadoes can be quite destructive. Their speeds go quite up; they can even reach over 120mph. What’s more, with this speed, they wreck almost anything in their path. If you try to use your portable generator in such weather can result in damages of your investment. And you know what, your generator could get swept up by the high-speed wind.

What to do when running a generator in wet weather, rain, or snow?

Now comes the best part; thanks to two or three inventions, you can now run your generator safely during the wet weather, when it’s raining or snowing. These methods provide ideal shelter to your generator without limiting its breathing or endangering your life. They offer the best way to keep all the moisture away from your generator. Without further ado, let dive in!

#1. Use a dedicated wet weather cover

Some generators come with a dedicated wet weather cover designed for protecting the generator during storage or when you’re using it in wet weather. Most of these covers come from the generator makers, meaning they are built for high-quality performance.

The best part is, a Pop-Up Canopy can withstand weather elements. You can use it to protect your generator while you camp, tailgate, or on the road with your RV. And you know what, you can get yourself a generator canopy for use with your portable generator, a model that can handle high speeds.

Get a metal generator enclosure.

A generator metal enclosure is another way to protect your generator during wet weather, rain, and snow. What’s more intriguing about a generator metal enclosure is it delivers more than weather protection and damage protection during storage. Installation of these enclosures is quite simple and straightforward; it does also come with predrilled holes for all the mounting, if necessary.

However, not every model you come across is ideal. Some are high-quality designed for extended durability while others are cheaply made and do not withstand the heavy-duty usage. Besides this, the ventilation holes need to be enough and well designed to prevent water and snow from getting it. And since you will be exposing the enclosure to moisture, it needs to be rust and corrosion protected.

Plastic Shed

If your portable generator is a larger unit, you need a Plastic Outdoor Shed. It comes as a specialized plastic shed designed to offer the best protection against harsh weather, snow, and even rain. However, you must be prepared to dig deeper into your pockets for the best product. I’ve to remind you that most manufacturers warn against using enclosed space for the reasons I discussed before.

DIY Enclosure

You can also decide to build a DIY enclosure, especially when you’re under budget. It will be ideal for use as an emergency. All you have to do is get resourceful and construct the DIY generator cover. It’s a desirable option that gives you the freedom to choose the best design that suits your style and makes you get creative.

Important things to consider while building your DIY enclosure:

 

• While building your enclosure, make sure you create a unit that can withstand weather elements. It needs to be a structure that won’t be blown away in minutes and expose the generator to the elements.
• Ventilation and airflow is a must in the DIY enclosure. You have to make sure air gets in between the tarp and the generator.
• And here comes the most crucial part, make sure all the sensitive areas of your generator gets covered from the elements, especially rain and snow.

Final verdict!

Next time there is a power black during wet weather, rain or snow season, don’t worry. Now you can take your generator outdoors and place it under your preferred protection from the above options. The best part is, you’re not confined to one choice; you have multiple, some quite are budget-friendly. You need to understand that ventilation and improved airflow are the best when using a generator under a cover or enclosure.