How to soundproof a generator for camping?
Well, in this post, I'll walk you through the step by step process that will help you to soundproof a generator.
The steps are quite easy, and you'll NOT need professional help to execute any of these steps.
Whether its construction sites or camping sites, we can't do anything without portable generators.
These generators are capable of providing uninterrupted power supply.
However, they have one drawback that is quite difficult to handle.
No marks for guessing.
Of course, it is an unbearable noise.
[Also Read]: Best Quiet Propane Generators
I've been working as a soundproof consultant over a decade now, and during my tenure, I've found quite a few people finding it difficult to handle the irritating sound of generators.
It goes without saying that the best solution is to buy a quiet soundproof generator.
However, if you've recently bought a generator or you're on a tight budget, and can't afford a 3000-watt quiet generator, then you're reading the correct article.
We're here to help you with the DIY solution that will NOT take loads of effort.
So, without any further ado, let's begin...
Important Information Related To Soundproof Box
The steps that I'm gonna to discuss with you will by no means make the generator 100% silent.
However, the unwanted noise will drop to the decibels that will be bearable for you.
Even though I make the box 100% soundproof, I can negate the generator noise 100%.
Do you know why?
There are certain areas of the generator that we can't cover because it needs air to run.
Another disadvantage of covering the entire box is that it will get overheated.
While there are many ways of making a successful soundproof generator box, but our criteria was to make one that is easy to assemble and disassemble.
Since the box that we're gonna make here MUST be portable because we're gonna carry it to the camping site.
Before we start making the soundproof box, allow me to share with you the list of materials that you'll need to build a successful generator box.
Important Tools and Equipment
- Measuring tape
- Ruler
- A pencil and a piece of paper
- Medium density fiberboard
- TMS –Mass Loaded Vinyl
- Green Glue Sealant.
- Foam mats
- Ventilation Duct
- Saw Screws
- Drill Paint of your choosing
Step by Step Process to Make a Noise Canceling Generator Box
1. Take Measurement
The best performing noise canceling generator boxes are those that can accommodate the generator perfectly.
As we all know that the generator comes in different shapes and sizes, so making a generator box without taking a measurement would lead to a debacle, right?
With the right measurement, you'll be able to make a perfect fitting generator box.
Take a measuring tape and jot down the measurements in a notebook with the help of a pen or pencil.
Remember, to add an inch or two to accommodate the insulation materials.
2. Go with the Medium Density Fiber Boards
Selecting the fiberboard is a very crucial step.
Falling to choose the board of the correct density may directly impact the performance.
A low-density fiberboard may NOT be apt for this project.
If you're an avid reader of this blog, then you'll be well aware of the fact that the higher the density of the material the better it will combat the noise.
Use at least a fiberboard of medium density, and cut the board as per the measurement, taken in the previous step.
Use pencil and ruler to measure and label measurement on the fiber boards.
Once you're confident about the measurements, use a saw to cut the fiberboard.
3. Set Up the Ventilation Holes
If you're using a generator, then you must be well aware of the fact that the generator requires ventilation to minimize the overheating.
And, the same goes true with the noise reducing soundproof generator box.
You just need to measure the diameter of the ventilation duct and mark on the fiberboard.
The first hole that you'll make should be on the top, but NOT in the center rather towards the corner.
Mark the second hole on the opposite side that will be used as a wall.
Once you're done with making holes in the fiberboard. the next step would be to lay down the quiet box in such a way that all the four walls are surrounding the top.
4. Add the TMS-Mass Loaded Vinyl Insulation
Vinyl insulation has great endurance and tensile strength.
Since it is made of virgin materials, so you can't question its durability.
The good news about these loaded vinyl is that you can use it for soundproofing room, office, warehouse etc as well.
The unique sizing of 16 square feet is definitely an addon.
Cut the vinyl insulator as per the measurement of the soundproof box.
Now, take the insulation material and glue it inside the box. My preferred adhesive would be Green Glue.
Green Glue is one of the best sound insulation adhesive available on the market, and you can use it for multiple purposes such as blocking the gaps, holes, and cracks in the vicinity of the doors and windows.
5. Seal the First Layer
In the previous step, we made the first layer, and now we need to seal it.
Take the green glue and apply it on the edges and gaps, cracks, and holes, if you find any.
As I've told previously, green glue has soundproof properties, and it helps in combating the unwanted noise.
6. Add the Foam Mat
Foam Mat is used as a supplementary product to enhance the soundproofing capability of the box.
These mats are soft, so it prevents the echoes, reverbs, and vibrations.
At the same time, it also absorbs unwanted noise.
You need to mark the measurement on the foam mat.
Cut it accurately, and place it as a second layer over the vinyl insulation.
Again, you'll need to seal the edges and gaps using green glue.
7. Assemble your Portable Generator Sound Enclosure
I would recommend you to use screws rather than adhesive to assemble the sound enclosure.
Using a drilling machine, make the holes, and then use screws to attach all the walls.
The reason why I preferred screws is that it will make it easy for you to make changes in the future or disassemble it for storage.
8. Install Ventilation Ducts
You can't expect a noise canceling box without ventilation ducts.
You need to install these ducts very carefully to provide an uninterrupted air supply to the generators.
The uninterrupted air supply prevents the generator from overheating.
Check for the bents in the ventilation duct to manipulate the sound waves that travel in a linear path.
These bents will ensure less sound production by trapping the sound inside.
Place the ducts into the holes, and make sure they are fitted tightly.
9. Custom make your Generator Box
The best thing about the DIY project is that you can customize it as per your requirement.
I would recommend you to add some design to the noise dampening generator box by spraying the paint of your choice.
Since you need the box for camping, so you'll have to add a handle.
In case, you want to enhance the portability of the soundproof box, you can install wheels at the bottom of the soundproof box.
It's a DIY project, and so modification isn't tedious at all. Just make changes as per your wish.
Make holes on the top surface of the box, and use a medium density fiberboard as a backup and add it as an additional layer on the back of the top surface.
Now, screw the handle to the top surface.
You're all set to rock:)
Wrapping UP:
The step by step procedure will help you to make a soundproof generator box on your own.
A piece of advice, be very careful with the measurements.
Definitely, making a DIY soundproof box is quite easy.
At the same time, you'll get rid of the unwanted stress of finding a perfect readymade soundproof box for your generator.
The materials that we have suggested you should use for the project are lightweight, and will NOT add additional mass to the generator.
Last but not least, share this article with someone who is looking for similar kind of information.
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