Generator Running Covers vs. Storage Covers: What’s the Difference and Which Do You Need?

Posted by Saloni Mahapatra on Jun 16th 2025

Protecting your portable generator is one of the best investments you can make to ensure your backup power is ready when you need it most. But with so many options on the market, it's important to understand the difference between a generator running cover and a generator storage cover. These are two products that may look similar at a glance but serve very different purposes. 

If you're unsure which cover is right for your generator, this guide will walk you through the key differences, similarities, safety considerations, and use cases to help you make the best choice. 

What is a Generator Running Cover? 

A generator running cover is specifically designed to allow you to operate your generator safely outdoors during inclement weather; such as rain, snow, wind, and even tropical storms or hurricane conditions. Top rated running covers are engineered to withstand high temperatures, direct exhaust flow, vibration, and heat produced while the generator is running. 

Think of a running cover as an all-weather “tent” for your generator that not only protects critical components like the outlets, engine, and control panel; it ensures adequate airflow and safe operation. 

What is a Generator Storage Cover? 

A generator storage cover, on the other hand, is designed solely for storage purposes. Its primary goal is to keep dust, dirt, UV rays, and moisture off your generator when it's not in use. These covers are generally made from lightweight materials and provide a good layer of protection in a garage, shed, or under a carport. 

However, they are not intended for use while the generator is running and can pose serious safety risks if misused during operation. 

Generator Running Cover versus Generator Storage Cover - GenTent Safety Canopies

Key Differences Between Generator Running Covers and Generator Storage Covers 

Weather Protection 

  • Running Cover: Offers waterproof and wind-resistant protection, allowing for generator use during rain, snow, and high wind events. Some models, like GenTent, are independently tested for hurricane-force winds, heavy precipitation, and snowload. 
  • Storage Cover: Provides basic water and UV protection but isn't intended to handle storm conditions or extended outdoor exposure. It won’t keep your generator safe in an emergency power outage caused by a storm.

Purpose and Use Case 

  • Running Cover: Built to protect your generator while it's in use. Ideal for emergency power situations where your generator needs to operate continuously, even during bad weather. 
  • Storage Cover: Meant for use only when the generator is off. Perfect for long-term or seasonal storage indoors or in a sheltered location. 

Material and Construction 

  • Running Cover: Typically made of durable and weather-resistant materials. Engineered to maintain structure and stability during generator operation, often with a frame or mounting system. All operational covers should be made with high heat flame retardant materials. 
  • Storage Cover: Usually made of softer, lighter-weight material, like coated polyester or vinyl. Easy to slip on and off but not reinforced for structural integrity or ventilation during active generator use. Because of the inexpensive material, these covers are not typically fire resistant or flame retardant. 

Safety Features 

    • Running Cover: Engineered with weather-resistant materials and heat clearance in mind, allowing proper ventilation for air intake and exhaust. They afford safe operation while preventing carbon monoxide from building up around the generator. 
    • Storage Cover: Not rated for fire safety or heat resistance. Using one during generator operation can trap exhaust fumes, confine CO build up, overheat the generator, or even catch fire.

    Ventilation and Carbon Monoxide Safety

    • Running Cover: Built with openings for intake and exhaust, ensuring the engine breathes properly and exhaust gases like carbon monoxide are safely directed away. These are crucial safety design elements. 
    • Storage Cover: Seals in the generator to protect from dust and debris, but blocks airflow, creating serious carbon monoxide and overheating hazards if the generator is turned on while covered. 

    Similarities Between Running and Storage Covers 

    While their functions are quite different, running covers and storage covers do share a few common traits: 

    • They protect your investment. Both types of covers help extend the life of your generator by shielding it from the elements — whether that’s weather or general wear and tear. 
    • They’re custom-fitted. Many running and storage covers are sized to fit specific generator shapes or models, offering a snug and secure fit. 
    • They’re portable and easy to install. Neither type requires permanent installation. Both are designed for ease of use, though running covers typically require more setup due to their framing and safety components. 

    Which Generator Cover Do You Need? 

    Ask yourself how and where you use your generator: 

    • Do you rely on your generator for emergency power during storms, blackouts, or wildfires? A running cover is essential. It enables you to operate your generator safely outdoors in any condition. 
    • Do you store your generator in a garage, basement, or shed when it’s not in use? A storage cover will help keep it clean, dry, and ready for the next use. 

    For many homeowners, both types of covers are useful. One ensures your generator is safe and functional during operation, and the other keeps it in good condition between uses. 

    Why GenTent is the preferred Generator Running Cover for Generator Manufacturers 

    If you’re looking for a running cover that checks all the boxes: safety, durability, ease of use, and year-round protection;GenTent is the trusted name across the industry. 

    GenTent covers are: 

    • NFPA 701 flame-retardant rated for safe operation 
    • Wind-resistant up to 70 mph 
    • Waterproof and snowload bearing up to 18” 
    • Designed to keep outlets, controls, and engine dry and protected 
    • Compatible with over 3,000 portable generator models 
    • Quick and easy to install — no tools required 
    • Proudly made and/or assembled and fully serviced in the USA 

    Best of all, GenTent doesn’t stop working when your generator does. With the optional GenSkirt® accessory, you can convert your GenTent into a full-coverage storage solution. The GenSkirt Outside Storage Kit fully encloses your generator beneath the running canopy, offering protection from dust, moisture, and pests during storage — giving you two-in-one coverage for your investment. 

    Don’t wait until the next storm hits. Whether you need to run your generator safely during hurricane season or protect it during the off-season, GenTent has you covered — literally. Explore your options and find the right fit for your generator today. 

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