Portable generators are not only very useful but also expensive machines. If you own a portable generator, you must take its proper care. Caring for your generator includes:
Changing the oil and air filters.
Replacing the engine oil.
Servicing and taking care of it while running outside.
Unfortunately, most generators do not come with a cover to protect them from rain, winds, fog, and snow while running outside. Keeping this in mind, we have selected the best portable generator covers for you to buy. We have done considerable research on them, so you don’t have to spend your time on them.
Let’s give your generators the additional care they deserve!
Table of Contents
Best Portable Generator Covers while Running Outside Reviews
Image | Product | Features | Ratings | Check Price |
 | GenTent 10k Generator Tent Running Cover |
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 | Champion Storm Shield Severe Weather Portable Generator Cover by GenTent |
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 | IGAN Generator Tent Running Cover |
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 | IGAN Generator Tent Running Heavy Duty Cover |
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1. GenTent 10k Generator Tent Running Cover – Universal Kit (Standard, TanLight) – Compatible with 3000w-10000w Portable Generators
Compatibly and Dimensions: It is compatible with generators of 3000 watt to 10000 watt. The dimensions are 35 x 18.1 x 24 inches; these are enough to cover almost any generator in the compatibility range. It is less heavy as compared to the one discussed above and stands at around 6 pounds.
Protection: The cover is made from double-coated marine-grade vinyl and polyester. It can tolerate rain, snow, temperatures as low as -25 degrees Celsius, and extreme heat. The material is rip-stop and is highly durable. No matter how rough conditions are, its cover will provide consistent protection to your generator. It can withstand winds up to 70 mph.
Installation: Installing and taking off the frame takes around 15 minutes. You will be done within three steps, first of all, you will have to clamp the rods and attach them to the frame of your generator. You will now have to frame it, it will become like a canopy, and in the last, and you have to cover the canopy with the tarp.
Functionality: The zipped design allows easy access to all the parts of your generator while keeping them safe from water and dust.
Our Opinion and Verdict: This cover does not allow you to cover up your generator while not in use. It offers perfect protection if you are looking for a generator cover while running outside.
2. Champion Storm Shield Severe Weather Portable Generator Cover by GenTent for 3000 to 10,000-Watt Generators
Compatibility and Dimensions: With dimensions of 36 x 24 x 18 inches and a weight of 4.5 pounds, this cover can easily cover a variety of generators in size range of 3000w to 10000w.
Protection: The cover is made from high-quality, durable materials that can withstand a snow load of 18 inches, a rain load of 12 inches in a day, and a wind speed of 70 mph.
Frame: The frame is assembled in precisely the same way as described earlier. All you need to do is clamp the rods, attach them to the frame and place the tarp over them for your generator’s protection.
Functionality: The design supports an ample refueling space for easy refueling while the cover is on. It ensures that all the air outlets get adequate space to let out the heat and keep the unit at optimum temperature.
Our Opinion and Verdict: All in all, this cover offers reasonable protection for your generator. It allows refueling and access to all the operating parts and is an economical buy.
3. IGAN Generator Tent Running Cover, Ultra Heavy Duty Tarpaulin Enclosure
Compatibility and Dimensions: The IGAN generator cover is compatible with almost all portable generators with a size of 3.5kw-12kw. It can fully cover generators with a tubular or square frame and comes with a dimension of 31.5 x 24 x 18 inches. The weight of the cover is around 10 pounds. Hence it will not add much to your overall luggage.
Versatility: It is a versatile option with the dual functionality of protecting your generator while running and while not in use. The flaps of the generator can cover everything other than the wheels while not in use. Wheels do not need much protection. While running, IGAN not only covers the electric panel and other sensitive parts of your generator, it also keeps the outlets dry. The tarp is designed in such a way to ensure that the exhaust system is not blocked, and your generator performs in the same way as it does without any cover.
Protection: The cover is composed of three layers for enhanced protection. The first layer is made from tarpaulin for water deflection, the second layer is hollow, and the third layer is made from 600D nylon to ensure that the cover is long-lasting and gives the best results in the long run. It protects from rain, snow, storms, and extreme heat.
Functionality: The design of the cover increases its functionality. You can quickly refuel your generator through a large refueling area, without the need to take off the entire sheet. You can easily plug in your appliances by just flipping the flag up.
Frame: The frame assembly and taking off is easy. You need to place join all the rods together, and you are good to go. The frame is stable and does not vibrate or move away once the generator is running. The 16 mm thick frame poles are sturdy and long-lasting.
Our Opinion and Verdict: A very durable and reliable generator cover. It comes with a 3-year limited warranty. The Velcro straps are of high-quality and can withstand rain, snow, and heat. All the features are fully functional — a must-have item for your generator’s care.
4. IGAN Generator Tent Running Cover, Ultra Heavy Duty Tarpaulin Enclosure, Portable All-Weather Generator Rain Shelter for Most 3500w-12000w generators, Gray
Compatibly and Dimensions: This cover can accommodate a majority of generators in the size of 3500w to 12000w and has dimensions of 34 x 26 x 18 inches with a weight of 9 pounds.
Versatility: Just like the other IGAN cover discussed above, it is useful for covering and protecting your generator while running outside and while not in use.
Protection: A three-layered protection ensures that your generator stays safe during times of rain, snow, winds, and extreme heat.
Setting up the Frame: Setting up the frame takes around 20-30 minutes. First of all, you need to merge the stainless pipes together and secure them to the top of the generator with cable ties. Now you have to drop the cover on the frame and secure it with hook and loop strips. Now lift the flaps as per the design of your generator.
Functionality: The cover allows refilling your fuel tank and operating your generator without the need to take it off.
Our Opinion and Verdict: A functional and protective cover for your generator. Buy this cover to keep your generator safe while it is running outside.
Buying Guide
We have also included a buying guide to help you make the best decision. We don’t want you to end up with the wrong cover and face trouble during run time. We suggest that you critically analyze all the factors involved in buying the cover and then make your decision.
Compatibility: Always buy a cover that is compatible with your generator. The best way to do this is to measure your generator dimensions and then compare them to the dimensions of the generator cover mentioned by the manufacturers. The generator cover must fit nicely on the generator. It is recommended that you look for a generator cover that is larger than your generator by 2-3 inches.
Weather Conditions: Weather conditions play an important role in the working and overall life of your generator. A generator running outside in rain or snow without a good cover will soon start troubling you. If you live in an area where there are frequent rains, snow falling, heavy winds, or dust storms, you must buy a cover that provides full coverage to your generator and only allows gas exhaust and heat exchange. For people living in normal climatic conditions, a standard generator cover to save it from dust and sunlight will suffice well.
Protection: Another feature you must consider before buying a generator cover is the level of protection it is offering. Covers composed of 2-3 layers of multi-grade vinyl, tarpaulin, and nylon provide excellent protection against rain, wind, and snow.
Coverage: A good generator cover protects all the sensitive parts of your generator, like the control panel, electric panel, sensors, and other parts. It must not cover the exhaust pipes and heat fans as it’ll affect the engine’s performance and won’t allow it to run for longer periods. If heat exchange is not carried out properly, the unit can get heated, and it will be detrimental to your generator.
Frame Installation: Look for a generator cover that comes with easy and less time-consuming frame installation. Make sure you get sturdy steel rods and high-quality clampers.
Functionality: A great generator cover offers excess to all the operating parts of your generator while it is on. You must have access to the control panel and the refueling area. It must have ample space for exhaust and heat exchange. Some covers also come as dual-purpose cover. They can also be used as storage covers.
Conclusion
While buying a generator cover, you must keep in mind the size of your generator and make sure that the cover will fit your generator. All the covers included in our list are excellent when it comes to protecting your generator, but the best one is number one.