Generator Sound Proofed Shed

[@MrFredsDIY]

Well? Is this generator sound box worth the effort? let me know here in the comments. Check out my newest design here▶️ kzbin.info/www/bejne/jZ_CeHlnh7aipdksi=ka_UM1qxFDgc4h4t

[@mileskapper9676]

Is this link to the Amazon Prime kit for $75.00 the same one you built above for the video or is this the source for just the panels?

[@MrFredsDIY]

Thanks for checking out the video! Those are the soundproofing panels that I used.

[@mannyfragoza9652]

id have to go back to the other video and check the numbers but from what i remember the Acoustic Foam didnt make much difference?

[@Wurmfist]

Decibel's are a logarithmic scale that isn't on a linear curve so 4-5 decibels is probably a lot. Every 10 decibel increase is a 10-fold level increase in sound pressure level, so being able to knock off 4 to 5 decibels is probably a job well done. Thank you for this video. I was researching some options on how to quiet my big open frame generator I use for my home, and while its generally just for emergencies it could also power my camper if I needed it too (even though it is way to big to take with me). My generator is very very loud and this gave me some great ideas. Thank you!

[@brendancurtin679]

@@Wurmfist while that’s technically accurate, to the human ear, we sense a 10 decibel difference as a factor of 2. So 10 decibels higher “sounds” twice as loud to the average human. And 10 decibels lower “sounds” half as loud. So the 5 decibels reduction he got would probably “sound” like a 25% reduction in noise (ie, it would sound about 75% as loud as before without the box).

[@Huiando]

@@brendancurtin679 Exactly!

[@richardsims3208]

I watched your first version of the "sound shed" and thought I'd build it using some kind of insulation on the inside, and then you released this version :) Thanks so much for sharing your idea, I just finished mine and I'm really happy with it. I wound up going with fiber acoustic tiles because I didn't went them to melt.

[@MrFredsDIY]

Awesome! Acoustic tiles are a great idea as well, thanks for watching!

[@josedelossantos2428]

The professor of DIY in my opinion awesome very detailed.

[@JeromeWoody7]

You should sell these soundproof boxes built and ready to use!

[@orlypalomar]

No doubt on how quiet it is with the box but I am worried about the lack of ventilation. The bottom of the front panel is where it pulls cool air for the inverter and the engine.

[@MrFredsDIY]

That’s a real concern! I made a comprehensive heat testing video for these boxes. Here is that video ▶️kzbin.info/www/bejne/iqqbkn1oes2Sjas

[@JimHaywood-y6u]

Made a bigger version to house a 9500W portable generator. Very happy with the sound reduction as the gas and electric hookup is right outside our bedroom/office. Right now, the sound in the bedroom/office, with closed windows, isn't much louder than the air conditioner also located outside the bedroom window. Most places in the house you can't hear it, at all. In fact, I forgot the generator was running when I'd tried the box during a routine 1-hour start-up & run maintenance period. I was only able to buy 1" foam board, so had to cut and glue sides together to get 2" siding. Also used 2" acoustic tiles for a little more sound absorption. I put a brace at the bottom of the open end for more stability as it's bigger. I was concerned about ventilation as the intake is on the closed end of the box, but I provided ample room on the closed end and it didn't have a problem getting air from the open end. I'm leaving it assembled and stored it in a utility shed as I'm thinking taking it apart and putting it together could add additional wear & tear reducing it's life. Thanks for the idea and video instructions! It's a winner and affordable!

[@CuriousEarthMan]

just a passing thought: while dissembling it a lot could weaken the rods anchored with foam, lining the other hole with sch 20 small diameter plastic pipe, or similar, would allow the rods to slide through without wearing the foam holes bigger. I guess it's a half win. Thanks for sharing your experience!

[@MrFredsDIY]

@CuriousEarthMan It seems like each time I’m make one of these, I improve the design a little bit. Check out my last design. I feel like I solved a lot of various issues ▶️kzbin.info/www/bejne/jZ_CeHlnh7aipdksi=-4bCZ7KHP9bVAAw-

[@rooseveltoggssr.9647]

Great video Mr. Fred. I just purchased a generator and was puzzled at how to reduce the noise. Thanks for the idea and solution.👍

[@CuriousEarthMan]

Thanks for the video! I need more research. To be honest, and NOT to troll you (edit) when you did the test with your voice and microphone (first set of tests) I can honestly say the sound WITH the sound panels was LOUDER than before you installed them. I was surprised. When you did the camping test with the running generator, I heard very little difference at all with or without the enclosure. I am very surprised, and would have expected a much larger reduction. Of course/also, your Db meter readout was virtually unreadable on camera, but thanks for showing it anyway! I appreciate your time and will watch more of your videos. Thanks again!

[@MrFredsDIY]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts and thanks for watching!!

[@nancyrice5014]

This is a great video! Generators are very loud .What a great idea!!😀

[@johnmcgrath3466]

This seems Quick, easy and effective. A great way to start. I wonder however if while using this. Could I build an even better box with more time on design & more money on materials or if this is the best anyone should expect ?

[@MrFredsDIY]

I recently built a new design that might be what you are looking for! kzbin.info/www/bejne/jZ_CeHlnh7aipdksi=aGzsc1tsz2rC_T_C

[@MindForgedManacle]

I think if you can route the sound at all with a turn or two, it'll probably drop it a bit more. That's how standard baffle boxes for generators tend to do it.

[@normanguzman417]

I notice from your other videos, that the acoustic sound panels average -5db compared to the same box you build without the acoustic panels that was average -2.5db. So adding the acoustic panels double the effectiveness of the sound proof shed. After watching this video, I think is worth adding the acoustic panels. Every little counts.

[@MrFredsDIY]

I agree! Sometimes folks get bogged down with decibels thinking that they are incremental when in fact they are exponential. Every single decibel adds up very quickly. Foam sound panels are fantastic but the problem is here in Las Vegas the heat destroys the self adhesive that comes on these panels. I believe it is best to buy panels without adhesive and use a high temperature spray adhesive to attach them for outdoor use. Thanks for the comment!

[@normanguzman417]

@@MrFredsDIY Thanks for the tip, i will try car headliner adhesive spray. That adhesive is meant to hold inside a car and, headliner has a similar sponge material inside.

[@brucewayne3633]

Had heard sound proofing was more effective if put panels at a 45degree angle over gen to reflect the sound back down toward/into the ground/earth... like a triangle or pyramid like shape... wonder if that would improve readings... or perhaps put off-cuts reflecter angels/baffels in the top quarter, inside of the box, to try it out...

[@christiandesantis5520]

This dude is the real life resident alien.

[@RJ-qq8kb]

Great idea. How about wind anchors?🤔

[@druskif9935]

Wonder if putting the reflective side of the foam facing out would help to reduce sun/internal heat? Have you tried using MLV? Not cheap but I wonder if it’s more effective.

[@ivansmialko6007]

Hi, thanks for the video! Doesn't it melt the box from heat coming out of exhaust?

[@Stevesmith-yw7cr]

What if I am deaf. Does it really matter? I'm not deaf and yes it matters as my neighbors are very happy that I made a box sort of like this. The heat build up is too much so I put a vent on 2 sides and it still did a great job of sound reduction. Great video.

[@Joe-Skier]

Hi Mr Fred, Im thinking of making one of these for camping only. What do you think about the idea of using rare earth magnets to assemble it? Would be nice to eliminate nuts and bolts. Thanks!

[@MrFredsDIY]

That is a pretty cool idea for sure! Check out my latest design for these kind of boxes kzbin.info/www/bejne/m6Okamdqlp51rMUsi=MX_bbBGdzwfvb-p-

[@Joe-Skier]

@@MrFredsDIY I'm just going to do the foam style with magnets. Would be light, quick to assemble and no tools required

[@ChrisYarzab]

I would personally use 1" felt on the inside of the cover. I use to soundproof 1400 amp Motion Picture generators that would operate at a sound level of 50 decibels at 50 feet. People can get more extreme as we also used soundproof spray on the inside of the housings to further quiet the generators.

[@mikezoltan3227]

You know, really, the best way to sound proof a generator is to dig a hole deep enough for the generator. Sound has nowhere to go but up and away. Throw a peice of plywood with some ventilation holes for extra quietness. Then one slab of concrete over that. You won't even know it's running.

[@Khlandestine]

You first

[@Shakewelltouse]

That may work on your property but is generally frowned on in recreational areas and national forests.

[@mikezoltan3227]

@Shakewelltouse You shouldn't have a generator in those areas anyway unless it's attached to your R.V.

[@Richard-d5x5e]

well done m8... could you use plastic rod/wingnuts to save weight and a serrated bread knife to cut the foam ?

[@MrFredsDIY]

Good ideas! I’m always thinking about a new way to build these!

[@edgartuttle215]

Hi, I'd like to see a better video on how you made the hit wire cutter?🔥

[@MrFredsDIY]

I made a video for a while ago for this. You can watch it here ▶️kzbin.info/www/bejne/hGKtqoqfj8p6lc0

[@CrottinDeChevre]

Interesting, do you know how durable styrofoam and your panels are, considering the temperature ? Didn't they melt ? What other materials would you use if it was not styrofoam ? I need something sturdier but also light, i was thinking about thin aluminium panels covered cork on the inside. 🤠Interested to know your thoughts !

[@MrFredsDIY]

Aluminum with the material that I used in my latest sound shed design might be a good combo. The Styrofoam is definitely not as durable as wood or aluminum but the price is right!

[@CrottinDeChevre]

@@MrFredsDIY and what would you use to absord the sound ? I would guess you need a low density material like a foam or cork. Im looking for something durable and heat/humidity resistant. And another question, how much gap do you let between the walls of your shed and the generator, so it can breathes/not burn your sheds walls? 🥸

[@redartisanwolf6716]

Wonder what if you double up on the foam make it 4in thick and make the hallway a bit longer and add a 2 foot pipe outward as exhaust if youd get diff results. I have a trip coming up gunna give it a try

[@walterpineda3300]

Would the lack of ventilation damage the generstor long term?

[@BluePineTree-01]

Just wondering how the box performs with a heavy load plugged in? Thank you for this video. I'm in the process - don't want to commit the cost and effort yet. But love how this video presents portability.

[@docink6175]

I didnt notice much difference when you were talking into the box, maybe because the top was open or the mic was still close to your mouth. I did notice a big difference in the gennie, not enough to run it at night in a campground but ok for boondocking. I wonder how much difference a larger box over that one would make, maybe a 3" air gap between the boxes

[@MrFredsDIY]

That’s a thought I have played with. I might make another video on this topic later this year. Thanks for watching!

[@mikejackson7284]

If you don't put appropriate venting near the exhaust it will burn up the box. Kinda like it did on my wooden box from Hurricane Milton.

[@spreaddead]

Generac containers are closed with vents. Might be worth trying it with all side closed and add vents.

[@MrFredsDIY]

Thanks for the comment! I have made several designs and some have had 4 sides with vents and fans. Here are a few ▶️kzbin.info/aero/PLN1CtBYDO93QJMqSAjbbujIq1yzEm8eTe

[@CCCL350]

Those acoustic panels arent for "sound proofing". Theyre used to absorb high freq and reduce flutter echoes in large rooms. U shoulda used MLV and Green Glue instead. Could have used SpecSeal too since its fireproof.

[@michaelfuller2649]

Try making one taller and with a wave box design !!

[@jeremyclaybaugh8790]

Have you tested an open top enclosure. I see the military guys commenting that they put there’s in pits but could that be done by making an open top enclosure without disturbing the ground?

[@MrFredsDIY]

Thank you for commenting. I have considered doing something very simple like an open top design. Later on this summer I plan to make another video with this generator.

[@kimsooyong9456]

Hello Mr Fred, Thanks for the video. Where can I order a large sheet of 2" styrofoam? When you listed 4x8 styrofoam, did you mean 4'x8' ?

[@MrFredsDIY]

I bought my 2 inch thick Styrofoam at Home Depot, but I believe Lowe’s has it too. And yes, it is 4‘ x 8‘.

[@Greenkabin]

With 1 digit number, it can make a big difference. More than 5 is a lot difference

[@loelkugler7434]

Where did you get the sound panels?

[@MrFredsDIY]

Amazon, there is a link in the video description.

[@hs9917]

I must say I have watched several of your sound shed videos and I really do enjoy them I like how you slow down and explain everything that you're doing this is the first time I saw the design of the bolt inside the styrofoam with the expandable foam sealant that seems like a great idea does it really stay in there very rigid also it seems like you cut the weight down by two pounds not using those metal Corner braces that you did in a previous video keep up the great work I really enjoy it thank you so much for your educational videos I'm trying to think of the best design for a new generator I just recently purchased a Duramax 15000 watt portable generator if it's capable of powering my entire home I agree though 5 decibel difference does not seem like a lot especially since this time you had the soundproofing on the inside is there anything else you think can you put on the inside to bring the decibels down even more?

[@journeyer22]

would you say this could be usable for Bohmer 9000w generator? currently trying to come up with something to make it quieter for mobile welding business. thanks a lot

[@MrFredsDIY]

It’s possible that something could be made, that’s a large generator! Thanks for watching!

[@dantyler6907]

A short-term solution (most generator uses are only a few hours) is to simply lay the ends of 4 panels of 2" styrafoam on each side of a generator, the other end on the ground. Crazy simple, crazy cheap and crazy effective!

[@nickwelch8057]

@@dantyler6907 what do you mean lay? Like lean them against it? And set the generator on top of the one on the ground?

[@vincentburnworth3318]

Great video! I love your presentation!

[@benramosactual]

Would you say that this performed better than the other foam "sound shed"? Or did it perform about the same?

[@MrFredsDIY]

This one did better than the others!

[@benramosactual]

@@MrFredsDIY Sweet! I just got a new camping trailer and plan on making one of these. Thank you for the great content!

[@kaotek53]

how about the heat emission effect if keep one side open?

[@kaotek53]

will the exhaust heat melt the shed?

[@MrFredsDIY]

If the exhaust comes in direct contact with the foam the heat will melt it. This open end design allows the heat to escape.

[@WillLeingang]

Super helpful. Thank you!

[@ObasKaymoney]

I NEED THIS HOW CAN I GET IT

[@armandomarin-arias4021]

Are you testing your generator in eco mode or in full mode?

[@MrFredsDIY]

Great question!! It was in eco for both the before and after. Thank you for watching the video.!

[@williamriley3125]

How can we further waterproof the open side?

[@CuriousEarthMan]

louver vent on open side?

[@TheJofarimo]

The sound is like smoke, it comes out from any place that is not well sealed and in your design the Achilles heel is the base, this should be completely sealed, and better yet forming a single body with the rest of the structure

[@chazwick75]

The 1 MAJOR issue I have is, there's no load so the "idle" noise 😁 will be very different then the 90% output noise.

[@FishOnIsMyHandle]

I'd like to build one just like it but as a larger cube, for my recliner.

[@pboxelement]

Great job thanks

[@MrFredsDIY]

Thanks! Check out my newest design kzbin.info/www/bejne/jZ_CeHlnh7aipdksi=ka_UM1qxFDgc4h4t

[@crispychicken2743]

good . I have an idea 4 you. Try making a dog house . Make it look real good . Inside install the generator. Know install the foam board inside . Hook the exhaust up to 2 mufflers and 2 resonators. Get thus stuff from the bone yard . The air intake should be like a maxed made of foam board Chanel's to kill the rest of the sound . Do the same with exhaust and all vents. The longer the exhaust pipe is, the more quit it would be . My whole house generator is remote start and stop with a fob. You get that system out of a junk car as well. This will take some brains . But if I did it so can you. You can ask me for more info if need be .

[@lcgcano]

Now do one with 3/4th inch plywood.

[@MrFredsDIY]

That would be a pretty heavy box.

[@frank269]

Cool

[@legocircus]

I wish this video had sound deadening... the volume gain is so high it hurt my ears (wearing headphones) when the video started :(

[@hansenhansen8349]

Get a Harbor Freight generator 4375, run time is 16 hours. This is a little ok alot louder. You pick a generator that is ultra quiet, you are showing us nothing, 54 db really, voice is rated at 75 db. Or again use a 2 stroke engine and try to get some real reading's. Most people can not afford $1100 generator. Im going to put my generator in back if my pickup with topper with plenty of air. Run extension cord to the house.

[@bradfordhouston8591]

Realized that these generator videos keep messing up the tests. Yall really need to run them under load. The generators tend to be considerably louder.

[@MrFredsDIY]

I made a very thorough heat testing video with thermal imaging and a dipstick thermometer running this generator to power a camper air conditioner. Here is the link.kzbin.info/www/bejne/iqqbkn1oes2Sjassi=aY-sU3Zw0c1__d7k

[@johnsellers9623]

I can’t tell the difference. But I’m sure it probably is better.

[@LittleCBR]

Let's say I want to keep a handful of chickens and a rooster and want them in a soundproof shed because chickens and roosters are illegal... Hypothetically

[@Eazye442]

No difference...

[@kendrickdanny]

Good way to burn up your generator. Never enclose an air-cooled engine in any kind of box or a hole in the ground. This is a stupid idea. The Army tried this and learned it was a costly idea after they destroyed several generator sets. Don't do it!

[@MrFredsDIY]

This is actually an awesome idea. I did a complete and thorough heat testing video that shows how cool the engine oil stays. While inside the box. Here is that video.kzbin.info/www/bejne/iqqbkn1oes2Sjassi=1qciHGkjE20Un30j

[@pbferron]

At the minimum install a ventilation system where cool air enters from the bottom and exits at the top. If not, your generator will get very hot, and the gas in the tank will get hotter. It will then vaporize and increase the tank pressure which could potentially cause an explosion and possibly a fire.