How do I make a cheap and easy cover for my portable generator?

I bought a portable generator for when there are power outages, especially in the winter. I live in Nova Scotia,Canada. I was told that there should be a cover over it when it is in use to keep it dry from the rain or snow. I can store it in my shed when not in use. I don’t want to spend a lot of money since this generator was 500.00. Thanks

  6 answers
  • Chubby58 Chubby58 on Aug 24, 2018

    This may sound a little tacky, but we took two 6 foot heavy duty plastic tables (the ones you get at Sam's or Costco. Put the generator under that and covered it with heavy duty pool liner. We also placed it in there so their was like a vent tunnel for the fumes to escape. It worked great for us, it was raining and we had no power. It was a quick way to get electricity without the generator out in the rain and wind. You could also build a frame and tack some weather proof fabric around it, but leave that vent hole open. We just didn't have time and threw what we had together as quick as possible.

  • Ken Erickson Ken Erickson on Aug 24, 2018

    Any low cost lean-to type of cover should help keep it dry. Make sure it is large enough, and if you have a prevailing wind direction, you might add a side wall to keep driving rain and snow off of generator. Make sure you have adequate air supply and exhaust that doesn't enter house.

  • Janice Janice on Aug 24, 2018

    Hi Sharon, I'm not sure how large your generator is size-wise, but you might consider grabbing a cardboard box that large appliances are delivered in......coat it well with a water-proof paint/sealant. It would likely last a long time if you store it with the generator so it's only out in the weather when the generator is in use.

    It could be cut "customized" to fit around the generator...but I'd think it shouldn't fit too closely so the generator can still run well and have air space around at all sides. What do you think? Might that work.

  • Dwp7470b Dwp7470b on Aug 24, 2018

    Agreed, up there is alot of precipitation, a Concrete Slab 6" is of need in addition to:

    Any 6'×6' Tarp with Bungee cords, as long as the Generator is less than 3 square feet, will do, otherwise you may need to go larger to 8×8. I know Harbor Freight has these, so does Ollies Outlet Stores.

    • See 1 previous
    • Dwp7470b Dwp7470b on Aug 24, 2018

      Patio blocks are too pricy, you are better off stacking 15 or 16 cinder blocks in the middle and pouring 6 bags of concrete in a form as a 6" curb around 3×5 or 4×4 Grid of the Cinder blocks. Further, As you suggest you want to place a Roof, the Curb of Concrete will allow you to set up to 8 Posts [4×4×72's] in place and you can build even a Mini Shed from that Foundation with Posts.

  • Sharon McLaughlin Sharon McLaughlin on Aug 24, 2018

    I have a sheet of plywood or 3/4 of a sheet. A fellow I work with suggested I attach the plywood to the side of the shed, slant it like a roof and shingle it. And one comment here mentioned having it on concrete. So I think I will pick up a couple of patio blacks to put the generator on it. I am told to stay away from electrical, plumbing and carpentry. So I will have to find someone to do it for me.

    Many advice is appreciated. Thank you

  • FaizH. FaizH. on Jan 14, 2023

    Sorry for bumping. Is it still worth buying a generator with today's gas prices?

    • Alice Norton Alice Norton on Jan 17, 2023

      Absolutely! First of all, you will be calm having an additional power source (though some people use it as a primary power source for homes that are not connected to the grid or for outdoor events and projects. It's cost-effective.