How to Prepare for a Winter Storm With a Generator

When winter is around the corner, it's important to stock up on the essentials that will get you through the harshest days. If a generator is on your list, knowing how to operate it safely during winter is vital to keep you safe. For example, you'll need to run it a safe distance from your home while protecting it from damage.

Learn all about how to prepare for winter storms with a generator and how you can ensure your generator operates correctly throughout winter weather conditions and power outages.

Using a Generator for Power Outage Preparation and Response

Before the start of winter, you want to have essential equipment on hand in case of a power outage — if you live in an area that sees frigid temperatures and harsh winter storms, you never know when inclement weather could take your power out for a day or two. Having a generator will allow you to keep your family safe and warm if your power goes out.

Before you choose a generator, consider its purpose and your home's size. If you only need a small power supply for lighting and heating, a portable generator may do the trick. In comparison, a larger generator may be necessary to provide power across your entire home. Doing your research ahead of the cold season is best to ensure you invest in the right generator before winter storms arrive.

Tips for Generator Safety and Maintenance

Operating your generator in wet conditions can be deadly — a generator cover is essential to protect you and your equipment. A GenTent for your generator is a winter essential you'll need on hand if you're operating a generator. GenTent covers come in different sizes for  various generator makes and models, allowing you to achieve the right fit for total protection.

Before winter, check the cover thoroughly and make repairs as necessary. Regularly checking the cover will help prolong its life span, ensure it performs its best when you need it in poor weather conditions, and reduce the risk of danger to you and your property. To make sure your cover lasts, clean it and store it in a cool, dry place when you're not using it.

How to Set up Your GenTent

Your cover will come with a manual you can follow as you set it up. Check out the general steps for assembling a generator cover:

1. Assemble your clamp hardware. 
2. Determine if you need a generator adapter — some generators will require you to adapt the frame to install the clamps.
3. Determine the position for your clamp rods — you'll need to use a measuring tape to get the right position.
4. Install your GenTent frame rods using the center connector.
5. Install the GenTent safety canopy and electric apron. Make sure the canopy flap is over the electrical apron so water doesn't get underneath.

Safeguarding Your Generator With GenTent During Winter Travels

Winter can be an ideal time to travel, whether you enjoy backpacking through mountain passes, taking the family to the slopes or simply checking out the holiday displays in different towns. If you travel by RV, having a portable generator for backup power can be useful, especially when the weather is bad.

It's wise to have a GenTent to cover your portable generator in the event of a storm. Why? The GenTent is lightweight and easy to store, so it's convenient for RV travel. It also comes in a carrying bag for added convenience. Plus, a generator cover may help reduce theft, as people may not realize there's a generator underneath.

How to Select the Best GenTent for Your Portable Generator

When choosing a GenTent for your RV generator, keep the following points in mind to select the best fit:

• Size and fit: The cover must match your generator's specifications. Having a GenTent that's too small will provide inadequate protection — and if it's too big, it won't stay in place. 
• Durability: Your cover must be durable to protect you and your generator. All GenTents are made from waterproof dual-coated vinyl, which is rip-stop material and includes welded seams. They can also withstand the harshest weather conditions, including hurricane-force precipitation and 18 inches of snow cover.
• Easy to use: You can assemble and disassemble a GenTent in minutes, and the material is easy to maintain.

Generator Accessories and Their Uses

Besides the GenTent itself, there is a range of helpful accessories that can assist you in storing and enhancing the use of your GenTent or the generator itself. We offer a comprehensive shopping experience for generators and accessories, including indoor and outdoor storage solutions and mounting hardware, so you can have peace of mind operating your generator during the winter.

GenTent's Role in Preventing Generator Damage

Why should you include GenTent in your emergency kit? GenTent is the perfect solution to protect your generator throughout the winter, helping ensure it works properly when you need it most. The GenTent easily attaches to your generator, protecting all of the important components while still allowing you access to refuel and perform other important tasks. The cover also allows for sufficient ventilation, so you don't have to worry about your generator overheating.

GenTent products are independently tested for safety and recognized as the industry standard for running generators in strong winds, torrential rain, and heavy snow, though the composition of GenTents makes them the ideal cover for almost any weather. The cover is made from marine-grade vinyl and includes fiberglass rods that keep it in place. The vinyl material is flame-resistant and can withstand extreme temperatures ranging from -45 to -150 degrees Fahrenheit.

When and How to Use GenTent in a Snowstorm

When using your GenTent in a storm, it's important to adhere to safety standards to protect yourself and the generator. 

• Position the refueling door on the opposite side of the exhaust muffler to prevent fire from spilled gasoline. 
• Install your GenTent at least 6 inches away from the exhaust. The electrical skirts must not block the exhaust in any way.
• Avoid using the GenTent in hurricane-force winds above 70 miles per hour. 
• When using GenTent in snow storms, brush away snow buildup to keep the top vent clear.

Choose GenTent to Help You Keep the Power on During Winter Storms

Winter storms can cause power outages, and having a generator will help you keep the lights and heat on while your local grid is down. Using a GenTent cover to shield your generator outside gives you peace of mind and protects your investment. Our durable generator covers come in various sizes for different generator makes and models.

Choose GenTent for comprehensive storm preparedness —  shop today to find a GenTent for your generator.