Home Standby Generators Are Quieter Than You Might Expect

Home Standby Generators Are Quieter Than You Might Expect

There are many reasons to purchase a standby generator for a home or business. However, while an automatic generator may be something that can provide power—as well as a sense of comfort—in the event of a blackout, many homeowners have concerns about generators, many of them unfounded. For example, some home or business owners may not want to purchase a generator over fears that standby generators are extremely loud—major noise polluters. But a standby generator may be quieter than you think. Here’s an overview of what you should know about the noise produced by generators and why these machines may be less nuisance than you think—

How Is Noise Measured?

The first thing that’s important to understand when thinking about the amount of noise produced by a backup generator is how noise is measured and the noise levels of common sounds. 

Experts measure noise in decibels. For reference 50 decibels (dB) is considered to be fairly quiet; 60 dB is measured as moderately quiet, and 70 and 80 dB are noise levels that are starting to get louder. Once you get past 100 dB, things are starting to get loud. For reference, a conversation at home usually measures at about 50 dB, a washing machine is measured at 70 dB, a leaf blower is measured at 90 dB, and a rock concert is measured at 120 dB, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In terms of what’s a “dangerous” level of noise, 85 dB is the level at which prolonged exposure can cause hearing damage.

So How Loud Is a Generator?

If you think that a standby generator is loud, you may assume that it’s about the same level as a leaf blower in terms of noise produced. But you’d be incorrect. Modern, newer models of residential standby generators are actually much quieter than machines of the past. To be sure, the Generac Guardian line produced 66 dB when heard from approximately 20 feet away, and Briggs and Stratton generators produce about 64 dB. These are safe levels of noise, and noise levels that aren’t a nuisance.

Learn More About Standby Generators Today

A home standby generator can be an easy way to protect yourself and your loved ones in the event of a blackout. If you have reservations about generators—such as a fear that they may be too noisy—call Generator Technologies Inc. to get the facts. We sell multiple generator models, including the Generac QuietSource Series—one of the quietest models of generator on the market today!

To learn more, reach out to our team online or by phone at your convenience.