One of the conveniences that silent generators provide its users is the advantage of having a standby or backup generator that will not cause too much stir because of the noise that the usual internal combustion engine makes (most power generators are made with such engines). This is especially an advantage in residential areas where you will most likely have neighbors that you would not want to disturb with loud and whirling engine noises.
However, the loudness of a generator is directly proportional to its size and if you have a bigger than usual house that you need to power in cases of power outages, then you will most probably require generators that are in the range of 5000 watts and up.
However, the problem with the bigger 5000 watt generator engines is that most of them come with open frame designs that are sure to scream when turned on. The good news though is that there are other models that are designed to operate at a lower noise level as to be considered silent generators.
Below are two of them:
5000 Watt Silent Makenco Diesel Multi-Purpose Generator – this is a powerful “industrial grade” generator that is designed to suppress noise through the use of a noise-damping chasis cabinet. It is equipped with a battery-powered starter for that quick electric start capability. It is diesel-powered so it is built to last long even with infrequent maintenance checks. It also has a similar design with its Honda and Yanmar counterparts so their parts are interchangeable. It is equipped with a large capacity and a fuel efficient engine so you can be sure that you get your money’s worth.
Engine Specifications:
Engine Type: Single-cylinder, vertical, 4-stroke, air-cooled, direct-injection diesel.
Displacement: 406 cc.
Speed: 3600 RPM
Continuous Output: 9.0 hp
Max. Output: 9.9 hp
Starting System: Recoil (Recoil/Electric) Starter (28Ah/12V)
Cooling System: Forced air
Governor System: Centrifugal weight system
Fuel: Diesel
Fuel Tank capacity: 4.3 Gallons
Lub. Oil Capacity: 40 Gallons
Continuous Working Time: 8.5 hrs.
Operating Noise Level (4m): 78 dB
Elim Power (Launtop) Silent 5000 Watt Diesel Generator – like the Makenco, the Elim Power 5000 watt generator is designed to be relatively quiet using a thick cabinet that muffles the noise. It also uses a diesel engine and a convenient electric start. See the specs below for more info.
Engine Specifications:
Engine Type: Single-cylinder, Vertical, 4-stroke, Air-cooled, Direct Injection diesel , 3600rpm
Displacement: 406 cc
Max. Output: 9.2HP/3600rpm
Fuel: Diesel
Fuel Tank Capacity: 4.2 Gal (16 L)
Continuous Operation Hours: 6.6 hours
Ignition System: TCI
Starting System: Electric Start
Operating Noise Level (7m): 70 dB
If you want to know whether a 5000 watt silent generator will be sufficient for your needs, please see this wattage guide for an estimate.