By Tony Carrick | Updated Apr 14, 2023 10:57 AM
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Generators are invaluable in the event of a power outage, generating electricity that provides light and heat. But a generator is only useful if it’s ready to go when disaster strikes. One of the best ways to ensure a generator remains in tip-top operating condition is to protect it with a cover that will shield it from weather that can shorten its life, like rain and snow.
Generator covers consist of durable, waterproof materials such as 600-denier polyester, vinyl, and tarpaulin. Some covers protect from the elements only while the generator is not in use, while others are designed to protect the generator when it’s operating.
This guide will uncover which characteristics are important to consider when shopping for the best generator cover while also reviewing some of the top models on the market.
We selected our generator covers after researching more than 20 different brands and types. We included covers to suit different needs. Our selections include operational covers that protect the generator while it’s in use as well as storage covers that protect the generator from the elements while not in use.
We used several criteria to narrow the field of covers to the top 10. Since generator covers are designed to protect generators from weather, they must be durable. Keeping that in mind, we chose covers that use rugged, waterproof material, such as heavy denier polyester, marine-grade vinyl, as well as those that come with special features like elastic hems for keeping dust, rain, sun, snow, and more out.
Since these covers are designed for portable generators that you roll into position from a garage or storage shed, we chose covers that allow you to access the generator handle without having to remove the entire cover.
The list below narrows the field to some of the top generator covers by size and type. Any of the generator covers below will help extend the life of a generator by protecting it from ultraviolet (UV) rays, rain, and wind.
Though this generator cover is an investment, its innovative design and durability make it one of the best options for providing comprehensive protection for a generator while in use or in storage. This running cover, which works with open-frame generators, consists of flame-retardant heavy-duty marine-grade vinyl. A sturdy steel pole attaches to the generator’s frame via a set of clamps, making this cover strong enough to resist winds up to 70 miles per hour or snow piled as high as 18 inches.
Vents on the top of this heavy-duty cover along with a retractable skirt allow for plenty of ventilation while the generator is running or max protection when it’s dormant. The cover opens at the top, giving the operator full access to the generator’s controls and gas tank. At 36 inches long by 24 inches wide, the GenTent 10k fits most portable generators ranging from 3,000 to 10,000 watts.
Get the GenTent running cover at Amazon or The Home Depot.
With its multiple size options and durable construction, this generator cover from Leader Accessories suits a variety of different generator brands. The four size options for this cover range from 31 inches long by 29 inches wide by 28 inches high up to 38 inches long by 28 inches wide by 30 inches high. The cover has a box shape and extends to the ground, providing complete coverage. This cover cannot be used while the generator is in operation.
It consists of 600-denier fabric with a waterproof PVC coating on the interior. Vents allow air to circulate under the cover, preventing condensation that can cause rust and corrosion. A strap that runs around the hem of the skirt holds the cover securely in place, while a plastic buckle makes it easy to remove the cover when it’s time to fire up the generator.
Get the Leader Accessories generator cover at Amazon.
Since a generator itself is such an investment, it’s good to know a cover to protect it doesn’t have to be as well. This affordable generator cover consists of durable 600-denier polyester with a PVC coating that makes it completely waterproof. Its box shape, which comes in three different size options that range from 25 inches long by 24 inches wide to 38 inches long by 28 inches wide, conforms to the generator for a secure fit.
With sides that extend to the ground, this cover provides full coverage from sun, wind, snow, and rain. An elastic cord around the bottom hem of the cover ensures the cover won’t get blown off by high winds. This storage cover must be removed when operating the generator.
Get the Himal generator cover at Amazon.
With thick tarpaulin and steel tubes that are ⅝ inch in diameter, this cover from Igan is one of the sturdiest models on the market. The cover, which measures 33 inches long by 25.5 inches wide by 18.5 inches high, is compatible with most 3,500-watt to 12,000-watt portable generators with square frames.
This generator cover features an innovative design that eliminates the need to install and uninstall it. This includes a skirt that drops down on the sides to protect the generator while it’s in storage and retracts to allow for ventilation while it’s running. The cover’s top opens, allowing for access to the generator’s controls and fuel tank. For those looking to coordinate the cover with their outdoor living space, this model comes in gray or black.
Get the Igan generator cover at Amazon.
This cover uses 600-denier fabric with a waterproof underlayment to protect portable generators kept outdoors. The box-shaped cover, available in several different sizes, conforms to the generator with sides that run to the ground, providing comprehensive protection.
An elastic hem and plastic buckles hold the cover securely in place even during high winds. A flap held in place with Velcro on the sides flips up to provide access to the generator handle, allowing you to move it without having to remove the cover. With four color options—black, light tan, khaki, and gray—it’s easy to coordinate the cover with the exterior of the home. This cover is only to be used for storage.
Get the Porch Shield generator cover at Amazon.
With its small size, this closed-frame cover is ideal for protecting smaller inverter-style generators. It fits most 1,200 to 1,875-watt generators that are up to 18.9 inches long by 15.8 inches wide by 14.2 inches high, though other sizes are also available. The cover consists of durable waterproof vinyl that conforms around the unit when in place and features a soft cotton lining on the inside that protects the generator from scratches.
An elastic drawstring around the bottom of the generator keeps the cover securely in place even in high winds or if transporting the generator in the back of a pickup truck. Champion’s generator cover is meant for storage only and should be removed when the generator is in operation.
Get the Champion generator cover at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Acme Tools.
At 38 inches long by 28 inches wide by 30 inches high, Femuar Outdoor’s roomy generator cover is large enough to support the biggest portable generators on the market (it also comes in two other sizes for smaller generators). The Femuar cover consists of 600-denier oxford fabric with a PVC waterproof coating and sealed seams that keep the generator dry while also protecting it from dust and damaging UV rays.
A drawstring and buckle around the skirt keep the cover securely in place on windy days, while a large pocket on the side provides a convenient place to store power cords, tools, and other generator accessories. A flap opens one entire side of the cover, making it easier to install or remove the cover.
Get the Femuar generator cover at Amazon.
Finding a cover to fit popular Honda inverter generators, which are typically smaller than other portable generators, can be a challenge. This cover from BougeRV is tailor-made for Honda generators. It features smaller dimensions of 19.8 inches long by 11.2 inches wide by 16 inches high, making it a good option for Honda’s most popular generator models. Its 420-denier-polyester-fabric construction provides ample protection from water and harmful UV rays, while a drawstring that surrounds the opening allows the user to cinch the cover so it tightly hugs the bottom of the generator.
In addition to being well made, this generator cover also offers several useful design features, including a side pocket for tools and a top flap that opens to allow access to the generator’s carrying handle. When not in use, this storage cover fits into a small storage bag.
Get the BougeRV generator cover at Amazon.
This cover from Westinghouse is compatible with most of the company’s popular line of open-frame portable generators and other open-frame generators up to 9,500 watts. The cover consists of waterproof synthetic-polyester construction with double stitching for durability and increased protection from water, sunlight, and dust.
The cover measures 28.5 inches long by 24.5 inches wide by 25 inches high, making it large enough to cover a portable generator’s wheels; it also includes a drawstring that holds the material tightly around the generator. The Westinghouse WGen cover is designed for storage only and should be removed when the generator is in operation.
Get the Westinghouse generator cover at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Also Consider10 Jorohiker Heavy-Duty Waterproof Generator Cover Photo: amazon.com SEE IT With more size options than most other manufacturers, Jorohiker offers a generator cover that can fit virtually any size generator. Its covers include five size options, ranging from 24 inches long by 17 inches wide by 18 inches high to its largest model, which is 38 inches long by 28 inches wide by 30 inches high. Each cover consists of strong tear-resistant 600-denier polyester with a waterproof polyurethane coating. Velcro tabs that attach to the generator’s metal frame keep it securely in place, while air vents prevent condensation from forming inside the cover. This generator cover also has a convenient flap that allows you to access the handle to move the generator. Jorohiker’s generator cover should only be used for storage and needs to be removed when the generator is in use. Product SpecsSizes: 5Material: Polyester fabric with polyurethane coatingType: Storage ProsCurved seams give the cover a tailored fit on open-frame generatorsMade with heavy denier fabric to withstand harsh weather conditionsRemovable flaps allow for easy access to the generator handleHas built-in air vents that allow moisture to escape cover ConsHeavier material makes it harder to store when not in use Get the Jorohiker generator cover at Amazon.
With more size options than most other manufacturers, Jorohiker offers a generator cover that can fit virtually any size generator. Its covers include five size options, ranging from 24 inches long by 17 inches wide by 18 inches high to its largest model, which is 38 inches long by 28 inches wide by 30 inches high.
Each cover consists of strong tear-resistant 600-denier polyester with a waterproof polyurethane coating. Velcro tabs that attach to the generator’s metal frame keep it securely in place, while air vents prevent condensation from forming inside the cover. This generator cover also has a convenient flap that allows you to access the handle to move the generator. Jorohiker’s generator cover should only be used for storage and needs to be removed when the generator is in use.
Get the Jorohiker generator cover at Amazon.
When looking through generator cover models, deciding whether to go with a simple storage cover or a more advanced model that protects the generator while it’s in operation is an important decision. Learn more about these two different types as well as other important factors, such as material, size, and functionality.
Generator covers come in a surprisingly wide variety of types. Choosing the right one is key to ensuring it protects the generator with which it’s paired without impeding its operation.
There are two basic types of generator covers:
Both storage and operational covers are designed for either open-frame generators or closed-frame generators. Closed-frame generators have a housing that surrounds the generator motor and its other internal working parts, whereas an open-frame generator’s internal parts are exposed to the elements.
While most covers specify which type of generator they are compatible with, they also have unique characteristics that make them easy to tell apart. For example, most enclosed inverter generator covers are more formfitting to accommodate the rounded shape unique to an inverter generator, whereas open-frame generator covers are typically boxier to fit around the cube-shaped frame that surrounds an open-frame generator. This style of cover typically has Velcro straps that hold the cover securely to the metal tubes that make up the generator’s frame.
Size is key to purchasing the right cover for a generator so it is easy to use and store. A good cover will protect the generator without negatively impacting its operation. While a storage cover should fit snugly to the generator, an operating cover should fit over the generator while also leaving enough space to allow for adequate airflow between the generator and the cover to prevent overheating. With this in mind, a generator cover should be 2 to 3 inches larger than the generator’s dimensions.
Coverage also varies with generator covers. A storage cover should enclose the entire generator from top to bottom to protect it adequately from the elements. An operating cover will function more like a tent that covers the generator while leaving a significant amount of space between the cover and generator to allow for airflow. This style of cover typically has a retractable skirt that stays in place when the generator is in storage and retracts to allow for adequate airflow for exhaust and intake while the generator is operating.
For a generator cover to be effective, it must consist of waterproof material that’s durable enough to hold up to the elements without tearing or blowing loose. Materials such as tarpaulin, polyester, nylon, and vinyl are good generator-cover materials.
Many storage covers are made of 600-denier polyester, which resists tearing and can hold up to UV rays. Polyester storage covers are typically lined with PVC or some other water barrier that makes the cover waterproof. However, vinyl is an attractive option for operational covers as it has fire-retardant characteristics. Furthermore, tarpaulin is durable and naturally waterproof.
The generator’s frame material is crucial to how well the cover holds up to strong winds or even the weight of snow. The best generator covers use stainless steel poles that won’t rust or corrode and are strong enough to withstand foul weather.
Ventilation is key when it comes to an effective generator cover. An operational cover should have openings that permit air to flow around the generator and allow the engine’s intake and exhaust to work properly. The cover should protect but also provide enough ventilation to prevent the generator from overheating during operation or collecting condensation when in storage.
Many operational covers have skirts that can be pulled up when the generator is in operation and lowered for maximum protection when the generator is not operating. Storage covers should have vents that prevent condensation from forming inside the cover, which could cause corrosion and rust.
Generator covers are used to protect the generator from foul weather. Many operational covers are designed for permanent installation so that you don’t have to worry about attaching the cover when inclement weather approaches. An operational cover should protect the generator, but it should also allow you to operate it without removing the cover. This means the generator’s control panel should remain accessible after installation.
Most storage covers have plastic buckles that allow you to install them in seconds. Many also feature flaps that open to allow access to the generator’s handle, enabling the user to move the generator without having to remove the cover.
If you’re wondering if a generator cover is really necessary, or how to use one properly, then read on for some of the most commonly asked questions about these products.
That depends. If you store your generator in a garage or shed when not in use, then a generator cover may not be necessary. However, if your generator lives outdoors, then a generator cover is necessary to protect it from rain that can cause rust and corrosion, which could dramatically shorten its life and prevent it from operating in an outage.
Though not as crucial as covering a generator that lives outdoors, covering a portable generator that is stored in a shed or garage is still a good idea as it will protect it from dust and dirt that can potentially damage it.
Only if you purchase a generator cover that is specially designed to cover the generator while it is running. Do not attempt to put a storage cover on a generator that is running.
That depends. A storage generator cover poses a fire hazard if it is put onto a generator that is in operation. An operational cover, which is designed for use while a generator is running, typically consists of fire-retardant materials and has a wide buffer between the cover material and the generator.
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