Adverse weather conditions and power outages are closely linked occurrences. When the weather becomes severe, with threats of storms and blizzards, it will often lead to power disruptions due to issues like damaged or downed powerlines. In the event of a power disruption, generators can stand in as supplementary power sources, but how do you protect your generator from severe weather conditions?

Considering you can't bring your generator inside with you, the best way to stay safe and secure your investment is to protect it from the storm because water and electric equipment cannot co-exist.

The Risks of Unprotected Generators in Extreme Weather Conditions

Running your generator in extreme weather conditions has a number of risks depending on what you do. If you leave it unprotected in wet conditions, you run an increased risk of damage if rain seeps into the outlets or internal mechanism. The machine may also suffer damage from lightning, which could result in an explosion. Most of all, you risk electrocution when you handle a generator that is exposed to wet conditions.

If you run your generator indoors, you expose yourself to the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning due to the toxic fumes. Never operate a generator in an enclosed space or in spaces connected to your living area, such as basements and garages. Your generator should be at least 20 feet away from your home.

Generator Safety Basics

A portable generator is an effective solution for preparing for power outages and emergency response in adverse weather conditions. They are a reliable source of power. However, to maintain safety, it's important to understand the do's and don'ts of generator operation in adverse weather:

• Do use grounded cords: Plug your appliances into your generator using heavy-duty and well-grounded cords because proper grounding lowers the risk of electrocution. Also, confirm that your cords and extensions have no signs of damage.
• Do store your generator properly: Store your generator in a dry area away from your living space. That can be an outdoor shelter kept at a distance. Alternatively, you could shelter your generator using protective waterproof canopies and accessories.
• Do use a CO detector: Keeping your generator at a safe distance is a must-do, but you should also keep a carbon monoxide detector.
• Don't dismiss the hazards: It's easy to dismiss safety measures when you're unsure about them. Generators are associated with serious risks. Understand what they are to ensure you operate the machine safely.
• Don't run a generator indoors: You may be tempted to operate your generator in the basement or garage when it's dark, cold, and stormy. Never do that because running a generator in any area connected to your home puts you at a high risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. It's important to understand the dangers of this toxic gas and how to safeguard your home from it.
• Don't plug your generator into the home wiring: Connecting your generator directly to your home's wiring is unsafe and can result in electrocution. Instead, call an electrician for proper power transfer installation.

Essential Steps to Weather-Proof Your Generator

Since you must keep your generator at a safe distance from your home, weatherproofing is necessary to protect it from damage. Learn how to protect a generator from a storm or snowfall.

Generator Waterproofing Techniques

How you store your generator makes a difference. Proper storage keeps out moisture, protects the generator components from damage and extends the generator's lifespan. Here are tips on keeping your generator functional:

• Storing it in a dry place: Your generator should have a dry shelter while it's not in use — this can be a shed or a garage that you remove it from before operating.
• Maintaining ventilation: Keep the space well-ventilated to ensure proper airflow and prevent humidity.
• Keeping it covered: To keep your generator dry and prevent electrical fires during a rain or snow storm, the best waterproofing option is a high-quality generator storm cover. The best examples on the market are GenTent portable generator tents, which are waterproof and NFPA-rated for fire resistance. These offer proper ventilation, resistance against up to 12" rain per hour, and can withstand winds up to 70 mph and up to 55 pounds of snow.

Selecting the Right Generator Canopies and Covers

Your power outage preparation and response plan should include a portable generator. And the most affordable, effective, and stress-free solution for safeguarding your generator in adverse weather is a portable generator canopy or cover. So, how do you ensure you select the right generator canopies or tents? Here are features to look for:

• Look for the right size that matches your generator specifications. If you're not sure about the size you need, insert your generator make and model in GenTent's Fit Finder to find the perfect cover size. GenTent generator covers cover over 3000 generator models.
• All tents are not made the same. Look for a provider like GenTent Safety Canopies that uses quality materials for durability and water resistance.
• Choose tested generator canopies. These have gone through third-party testing to ensure they can withstand severe weather conditions.

Generator Maintenance Before and After the Storm

Understanding generator safety and maintenance requirements is crucial for safe usage and a long-lasting generator. Remember that appropriate use of your backup generator will ensure it serves you well with fewer maintenance issues. Here's a maintenance checklist for before and after the storm:

Pre-storm preparation for your generator includes:

• Check that the engine oil is in proper condition and drain it if it's been sitting there for six months or more.
• Check the spark plug condition and replace it if you notice any discoloration.
• Check that you have enough fuel and look out for fuel leaks.
• Check the air filter and clean out the debris.
• Check for damaged or loose fuel lines.

Post-storm generator care should involve:

• Cleaning your generator.
• Draining the fuel and letting the generator run it out.
• Using a fuel stabilizer if you want to keep the fuel.
• Storing your generator in a clean and dry place.

FAQs on Protecting Your Generator

Here are common questions about using generator covers in all types of weather:

• Can you protect a generator in all weather conditions? Running a generator and ensuring it functions perfectly in all types of weather is possible when you take certain precautions. If the weather exposes your generator to precipitation or dusty winds, you must protect it with a high-quality and stormproof generator canopy.
• Where do I shop for a durable generator tent? Shop for durable tents and other accessories from a provider, like GenTent, with proven portable generator expertise.
• Do generator covers reduce noise? Generator covers are not meant to muffle noise, but rather to shelter your generator from the elements. If you need a generator with lower noise levels, an inverter generator is your best bet.
• What are generator accessories and their uses? Generator accessories are parts that support the use of your generator. You can find generator accessories from GenTent like outside storage kits, bags and clear vinyl aprons.

Embracing Preparedness With GenTent Safety Canopies

Generators are the ultimate preparedness tools for severe weather. When a storm kicks in, disrupting the power supply, you can count on your generator to maintain daily necessities. Because you most often need your generator during severe weather, protect it with a generator tent from GenTent Safety Canopies.

We offer the ultimate solution for weather-proofing your generator during severe weather. Backed by research and independent lab tests, GenTent provides quality and lasting safety tents for portable, inverter, and larger generators. Get in touch with us so we can guide your shopping experience for generator tents and accessories.