It is often difficult to find the right generator for your food truck. With all of the different models and brands on the market, it can be hard to decide which one will work best for you. However, with this article, I hope to help make that decision a little easier.
The best quiet generators for food trucks need to be quiet, be easy to use and maintain, have a long run time and be able to meet your power demands.
We have compiled a list of some the top 7 quiet generators that are perfect for any food truck owner. All meet your demands since food trucks often work in urban areas where noise isn’t so easily ignored like elsewhere.
Best yet, they are all fairly affordable so you won’t break your budget in order to keep your truck running smoothly.
Westinghouse WGen7500 Portable Generator
The first generator to consider for your food truck is the Westinghouse WGen7500 Portable Generator with Remote Electric Start. Westinghouse is a well-known brand for their quality and Westinghouse generators are used in many places like construction sites, pools, farms, cabins, hospitals and more. This generator has the best of everything when it comes to use as the main power supply for your food truck.
Design
The design of the Westinghouse WGen7500 Portable Generator is compact with a pair of wheels and 2 feet for ease of movement and stability when in use. Westinghouse did a great job of making this generator light weight (192 lbs.), but also sturdy enough to handle demanding tasks like powering food trucks that can have intensive energy needs.
With the design Westinghouse used for their generators, you don’t need to worry about lugging around an unwieldy and heavy piece of equipment when moving it from one site to another since they’re light and compact and always have wheels for movement.
Performance
In terms of performance, the Westinghouse WGen7500 Portable Generator is quite impressive. It has a peak wattage of 9500 and a running wattage of 7500 which is more than most food trucks will need. Westinghouse WGen7500 Portable Generator is also 25% more fuel efficient than Westinghouse’s previous model in the same series.
The Westinghouse WGen7500 Portable Generator powers not only the lights at night but also runs a few heavy appliances like the refrigerator and TV set properly.
Westinghouse has made their new design much quieter compared to other models so as not to bother anyone in nearby hotels or residences when you are running your food truck business. Its noise level of 72 decibels is quite impressive for a generator this powerful.
Why get it?
It has an impressive power of 7500 Watts which is a lot more than any other generator in this price range and it’s easy to start up and use.
One thing that stand out about the Westinghouse WGen7500 portable generator is its performance. According to the manufacturer, it can generate enough power (6000 watts) to run small appliances like microwaves or refrigerators as well as lights or TV sets at less than 100% output – great if you’re camping.
Running two lightbulbs, two televisions and a refrigerator on the Westinghouse WestGen75000 generator lasts for more than 14 hours before you plug in your power cord.
The West Gen 75000 can also be used as a backup system if you have an outage at home. Additionally, there’s some other cool features that you will really like about this generator such as its automatic voltage regulator which helps stabilize outages so your devices don’t get all wonky when they’re plugged into the generator; no need to break up extension cords or worry about tripping over them – one outlet is enough for everything.
Besides that, the 72 decibels of noise are quite impressive for a generator with this much of power output. Your business will run silently even in the most silent of neighborhoods.
Downsides
The only issue I noted with this Westinghouse generator is that the oil drain plug is too tight to use with a standard or Allen wrench. Westinghouse’s customer service department recommended the use of pliers, which can be frustrating and difficult to do on such a small part at an awkward angle.
Overall, this is the one generator I’d recommend for heavy power users who need to operate their business quietly.
WEN 56380i Portable Inverter Generator
In close second is the highly impressive WEN W6380i Super Quiet 3800-Watt Portable Inverter Generator with Fuel Shut-Off and Electric Start.
This model has been designed to be a heavy-duty workhorse, generating up to 3800 watts of clean power for your food truck, workshop or construction site.
It’s also perfect for powering appliances such as microwaves, refrigerators, TVs and more at home during emergencies when the power goes out since it provides clean and steady power (being an inverter generator).
Design
The WEN W56380i Super Quiet 3800-Watt Portable Inverter Generator with Fuel Shut-Off and Electric Start is quite light compared to other models, at just over 99 lbs.
It comes with an electric start as well as automatic idle control – so you don’t have to worry about running out of power in the middle of your event. It has several outlets with two 120V, one AC 120V, one DC 12V and one USB port.
Performance
The WEN W6380i is surprisingly quiet considering its powerful capabilities (only 57 dB) thanks to WEN’s sound suppressing muffler design, which can reduce engine noise by over 50%.
The unit comes equipped with an electric start feature so you don’t need to struggle with pulling the starter coil each time you need it to be on and running.
WEN generators are equipped with an automatic voltage regulator for stable output and protection against blackouts, brownouts or overloading.
Why Get it
It is a Super Quiet generator, so you can’t hear it from more than 20 feet away which makes this perfect for food trucks where customers might not want to deal with the noise of being too close to a generator while they eat their meals in peace. This also means that people won’t be able to complain about how loud your truck is to the authorities.
It also has a runtime of 8.5 hours, which is perfect for your food truck that only needs to cook and prepare the ingredients then close until it’s time to serve. It also has a fuel shut-off, meaning if you are in areas where using gas isn’t allowed, then this generator will be able to work without creating any more pollution than necessary.
And with its electric start and auto decompression design, this WEN generator is easy enough for anyone on staff to use so no one has an excuse not to help out when they need to. And, finally, because of all these features there’s less anxiety knowing someone else can take care of the noise while you’re busy making sure customers get their orders as fast as possible.
Downsides
There are no major issues with this generator. The only common complaint from other customers is the plugs breaking or coming off easily.
Pulsar 5,250W Dual Fuel Portable Generator
This is one the most pocket-friendly generator in this list. The Pulsar Dual Fuel Portable Generator has a 4-stroke Pulsar brand engine that is able to provide enough power for most food truck needs which make it the perfect unit for ice cream trucks and other small kitchen use such as hot dog carts or coffee shops on wheels.
Design
The Pulsar 5250W Dual Fuel Portable Generator with Switch and Go Technology has a sleek design. It’s made up of an aluminum frame, steel guards, and stainless-steel hardware to ensure long life. It also features LED lights on the front for nighttime use which allows you to quickly check that all functions are working properly.
Performance
This portable generator also comes with the switch and go technology meaning you can choose between gasoline fuel or propane (LP) gas/fuel options so you’ll never run out of power on busy days in town. The Pulsar 5250W Dual Fuel Portable Generator is also easy to operate due to its push-button start system. There’s no need to worry about hard starting problems when it’s time to get cooking again.
Why buy it
It is quite cheap, compared to most generators in this review. It uses Pulsar’s Switch and Go Technology. This means that the generator has a propane tank to power it, but also features an easy switch from liquid fuel (propane) to gasoline in the case of emergencies or low gas availability. This one has that great feature which makes it one of the best.
This generator is overkill if you’re just looking for a small camping generator, because at 5250 watts it will require more space than your average camper.
But this is perfect for long-term events where electricity might not be available 24/hours per day like festivals or weddings. With a continuous runtime of 12 hours, you’re well-served with this one.
The Pulsar’s compact size makes it easy for one person to carry or transport when they need more power than their vehicle battery can provide as well as store away safely when not in use. It only weighs 115 pounds and produces 5250 peak Watts and 4250 running watts at a very low noise level.
Downsides
This generator has many great features although it has a weak choke linkage as explained by some customers. Other than that, it’s one of the best for its size.
Champion Power Equipment 100302 4000-Watt RV Ready Open Frame Inverter
At 84 pounds and 64 dB of sound, the Champion Power Equipment 100302 4000-Watt RV Ready Open Frame Inverter is one of the best quiet generators for food trucks.
One thing you’d appreciate about it is its affordability, low emissions, nearly zero noise levels (64dB), and ability to run on gasoline for up to 17 hours without stopping.
Champion offers a free lifetime service and a 3-year limited warranty which are very nice features if you ask us.
Design
This generator is designed to be mounted on the back of an RV. Champion Power Equipment has engineered this generator for versatility, with a variety of outlets that make it accessible in any circumstance, including 120VAC or 240VAC power. There are two power outputs and one battery charger outlet as well as USB ports for charging mobile devices.
Performance
With this generator, you get 4000 starting watts and 3500 running watts. Champion Power Equipment also offers a convenient electric start, which is great for those with limited physical strength or mobility. Champion even includes a battery for the starter and charging cables.
Why buy it
It is affordable, fuel efficient, easy to operate and with low noise levels. It is small in size making it perfect for taking on a camping trip.
You can use this generator on all types of surfaces including grass or concrete given its tires and feet which are both made of rubber.
It’s also a universal model that runs off either 120v AC power from a house outlet or 240 volts with an adapter cord which plugs into any standard household wall socket (NEMA L14-30).
Additionally, you are able to run this generator for up to 17 hours without refueling.
Downsides
Though Quieter than the average generator, some customers find it a bit louder than other regular inverter generators.
Honda 660270 7,000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
At 7,000 Watts, this Honda generator is one of the most powerful. Honda is well-known for their Honda generators and the Honda 660270 does not disappoint. It has a surprisingly quiet sound level, so you don’t need to worry about distracting customers or bothering your neighbors when it’s in use.
Design
The design of the Honda 660270 is quite typical of generators. It has a Honda red and black color scheme with Honda branding, but it does not look as nice or sleek as some other models on the market. It has a pair of wheels and pair of legs for movement and standing respectively.
Performance
The Honda 660270 can produce up to 7000 watts of power at 120 volts so you will have plenty of electricity for your needs while running off its battery alone. It comes with an electric start which makes it easy if you want to use this generator without having to manually prime the engine.
Why buy it
This generator is Honda’s flagship model, so it has a lot of features. Honda is known for their quieter generators and this one is no exception. It also has an electric start with push button operation and the engine starts at 55% power to allow easy startup.
The exhaust system includes a muffler which reduces noise by 40 decibels. It also comes equipped with Honda’s unique Eco throttle that increases fuel efficiency when you need less power. Besides that, it has a runtime of 18 hours which one of the longest for a portable generator.
Downsides
The covers are not for outdoorThis generator has lots of good things about it especially the large power output and low noise levels. The pros clearly outshine the downsides.
Westinghouse iGen4500 Portable Inverter Generator
The Westinghouse iGen4500 Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator is one of the quietest generators on the market. Westinghouse has designed and manufactured this model to be 30% quieter than their previous models, and it’s still easy to transport in a truck or van. This generator provides about 3700 watts of power with a maximum starting surge capacity up to 4500 watts for larger loads like fridges, ovens, air conditioners, and freezers.
Design
In terms of design, Westinghouse has done a decent job of designing this generator. It is designed to be both durable and lightweight (93 pounds) so it can easily be carried around by one person for most jobs.
Westinghouse also did well with the design of the fuel tank as it does not protrude from the back. This means that you don’t have to worry about bumping into or hitting anything because there’s a risk of spilling gasoline and causing a fire risk.
Performance
The Westpointe iGen4500 Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator includes several features designed to keep sound levels down in order to maintain peace and tranquility when operating during daylight hours.
The design features include an aluminum housing around the engine compartment which contains noise generated by operation, mufflers which silence engine noise in the exhaust stream, and a sound enclosure over the muffler which contains additional noise.
Westinghouse has also added an electric start with push button safety features for convenient operation, and built-in handles on each side of the generator to allow it to be moved easily from place to place.
It has a runtime of 18 hours and produces only 52 decibels of noise which is impressively low.
Why buy it
Anyone would recommend this generator any day. Westinghouse has been a trusted name in the generator-manufacturing industry for over half a century. This particular generator is very quiet, even when running at full capacity.
There are other portable generators that can be upwards to $1000 more expensive than this one and they are not nearly as efficient or quiet. The Westinghouse Igen4500 comes with everything you need to get started from power cables, carrying handle, fuel tank adapter, battery charging cables (to keep your phone charged), muffler clamp and spark arrestor kit.
There are also outlets on both sides of the unit which makes it convenient if you want two things plugged into one outlet but there’s only one available nearby. The handles on both sides make it easy to move the unit, even when it’s full.
This the ideal inverter generator if you are in need of a quiet running portable power source for your food truck business or other small jobs around your house.
Downsides
Although this generator seems to work fine for most people there is a substantial number of verified buyers who have found it to have a choke issue. There are also a couple of complaints about the Westinghouse customer service
7. Champion Power Equipment 100519 6250-Watt Open Frame Inverter
Wrapping up our list is the Champion Power Equipment Champion 100519, which is clearly one of best quiet generators for food trucks.
This Generator has a 6250-watt open frame design and features Champion’s patented Cycloconversion technology that converts the engine RPMs to be compatible with loads up to 5000 watts.
It also comes with an integrated voltage regulator for stable running conditions when supplying electronics or appliances of any power rating.
Design
Its design is a bit different from Champion’s other models, as the 100519 is an open frame inverter. This means that it does not have a case or cabinet to shield the electronics and cables inside of it. Champion assures us that this model has been carefully designed with safety in mind so you can feel safe bringing this generator out during your next event without fear of injury or damage.
Performance
This generator excels in performance. The Champion Power Equipment 100519 provides a continuous wattage of 5000 watts, and it can provide up to 6250 peak watts for an extended period of time.
It also includes Champion’s patented Parallel Redundant Design that continuously monitors the health status of its components from start to finish in order to maintain reliable power output.
Why buy it
This generator is one of the quietest and most powerful generators Champion Power Equipment makes.
It is rated for a maximum of 6250 watts, and it has an open frame design that allows you to mount them on your truck or trailer easily with included brackets.
The Champion 100519 comes equipped with noise-reduction insulation so that you can get more power per pound without too much noise.
Besides that, it also has an inverter which means it provides clean energy which can be used by power-sensitive electronics such as TVs and mobile phones. You can thus use this generator for more than just your food truck.
The Champion 100519 is also a heavy-duty, durable and rugged inverter generator that comes with an impressive warranty of 3 years on the engine and ten years on all other parts.
If you are looking to buy a reliable, lightweight power supply for your mobile kitchen then Champion’s 6250-watt open frame inverter generators should be at the top of your list.
This generator has little to doubt and worry about since it delivers high levels of power at a low noise and isn’t hard to operate.
In conclusion, these generators are what you need if your space needs to be really quiet. The power demand always determines what kind of generator you get and, in most cases, the more powerful a generator is, the high the noise levels.
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What to look for when buying
Some aspects to consider when buying a generator for your food truck include the following:
Power needed
The amount of power your food truck needs will determine the size of generator you go for. Think about the number of refrigerators and freezers you have on board. If there are three or more, it is recommended that you get a generator with at least 12kW continuous power output. This guarantees safety and enough power to keep the food fresh and ready for use when the time comes. Some ingredients are just too delicate to store without freezing them.
Noise level
Since food trucks are to be used in public, find the quietest generator for your level of power needed. Again, the noise level will be important to consider.
To find a generator with lower noise output that is still powerful enough for your needs, look at brands like Honda and Yamaha and the others mentioned here. These are some of the best quiet generators on the market because they do not produce as much sound when turned on. This can help you get closer to an audience while being less intrusive during performance hours.
The sound levels range from 66 to 68 dB, which is well below the 80 dB noise level that OSHA classifies as hazardous exposure. Best of all, these machines come equipped with a muffler and spark arrestor. These are necessary safety equipment needed by law when operating such a device outdoors or near an open window or door.
Runtime
With generator runtime, the longer it is, the better. You want to be able to run your generator without needing a refuel for at least six hours, and you don’t want it running out of gas when you need power the most.
The average length of time generators operate on one tank is about seven hours. The best quiet generators can handle up to twenty or thirty continuous hours before they need another fill up or cooldown. This makes them ideal for events like concerts, weddings, and other large celebrations where you might not have access to electricity nearby. You wouldn’t want your event guests without power during mealtime or peak hours.
A generator with a long runtime is an essential part of your business when you’re dealing with perishable items such as foods and operating for long hours on end.
If you are running low on gas in the middle of an important job that needs constant power, it’s hard to keep going as mobile generators sometimes run out when there isn’t a convenient outlet nearby. The longer runtime of some generators is perfect if you’re going to be in one place for an extended period and need power consistently all day long.
Ease of use and maintenance
You don’t want a generator that gives you a headache when in use. For this reason, all of the generators on this list are more than capable enough for use in food trucks. They’re easy to set up, run, refuel and repair if ever the needed arises. The best thing about these generators is that they’re so quiet, you might not even know it’s on until it’s time to turn them off.
Type of fuel used
The type of fuel a generator uses can determine how easy it is to use the generator. Make sure you get one that uses the fuel that is easily available to you to avoid shortages when you’re in the middle of serving your customers.
Besides that, there are dual fuel generators which can either use gasoline or another type of fuel depending on what is more convenient. You can thus be sure that fuel won’t run out in a certain area or day.
A quiet generator for a food truck will depend not only on the type of fuel used, but also how noisy it is when running. It’s thus best to get one that doesn’t make too much noise so you don’t have customers complaining about all the noise coming from your generators while they’re eating their meal inside. Heavier fuels make more noise in general. With these aspects in mind, getting the right generator for your food truck won’t be such a burden. In fact, your focus wou