Hooking up a tri-fuel generator to power a house | sound dampening, stealth enclosure, exhaust

[@GuysPestSolutions]

I see a lot of comments on this video and I could not read them all, so I don't know if anyone has mentioned this or not. I have the same generator and I built my cabinet very much the same way that you did yours. My power went out yesterday and I turned on the generator and it was working fine when I shut the cabinet. However, sometime while I was inside watching TV , the exhaust fan malfunctioned and stopped working, so there was no airflow through the cabinet. Needless to say it got pretty hot inside the cabinet and almost started a fire. I used the same insulation that you did and a lot of it melted. It was so hot that I burned myself when I touched the ignition switch to turn off the generator. The ignition switch is frozen now and I ordered a new one. Once it arrives I will attempt to start the generator to see how much damage there is to the motor. It didn't sound good when I turned it off. All of this is to say, you also need to install a temperature switch that will turn off the unit if the cabinet gets too hot. You want one that defaults in the open position and closes when the desired temp is reached. You can get them from Amazon for about $10 and wire one into the the switch that shuts the unit down when the oil level is low. You just run a wire from the ground to the switch and from the switch to the wire that comes out of the oil shut off switch that is screwed into the motor. That temp switch can then be zip tied to the frame of the generator. That way, if the exhaust fan fails for any reason, the generator will turn off before any damage or fire occurs.

[@unitedstatesofbuild4915]

Dang, Im sorry to hear that. It mustve gotten pretty warm in there. So a fail-safe is critical. What was the indicator this was happening? I was told by the owner of this unit that he has a bluetooth temp probe that goes to his phone with alerts. Its actually intended for a BBQ but it monitors the enclosure temp just as well. It wont turn the unit off automatically though. Im going to look into a switch like you mentioned. A typical air cooled, aluminum head engine can withstand temps up to 375F, Hopefully you didnt get that high. Please keep me posted.

[@johnhendrix4034]

SOOOOOOOOO read my comments ! I'm not a fool.

[@GuysPestSolutions]

@@unitedstatesofbuild4915 Sorry it took so long to get back to you on this. The ignition switch was melted to the point that I could not start the generator. After ordering and installing a new one, I was able to start the generator and it was making some pretty scary noises. It appears as if the motor is okay, but the generator is shot. It looks like the wire windings or whatever just melted. I was not able to get the needed parts to fix it, so I ended up buying a new generator. The foam in the cabinet was the same as you used and it was pretty much melted too and needed to be replaced. I have now repaired the cabinet and installed a new generator, with the heat kill switch. I also put a thermometer sending unit in the cabinet that sends the temp to a receiver in the house, so that I can monitor the cabinet temp. I don't know why the fan failed because it only had about 5 hours total time on it. The fan motor could have been defective, but my theory is that the fan was not large enough to remove sufficient heat from the cabinet. That may have caused the fan motor to overheat and fail. I have now way over engineered the airflow system. I tripled the size of the fan and added a lot more makeup air vents. It's like a wind tunnel in there now. I also decided to use two heat kill switches. One is set 10 degrees higher than the other, so that if one fails the other will still do the job. I am not taking any chances this time. A whole set of the switches cost about $10 from Amazon. The entire repair came to almost $2000 because I failed to engineer in a cheap heat kill switch. Boy do I feel stupid. Anyway, you did a great video. Thanks for sharing it.

[@The_Bearded_Lady]

Came to comment section to ask if it is safe to store more propane and gasoline in the cabinet... but now seeing this comment it makes me worry lol. With a heat kill switch and a temp monitor do you think it would be safe? I could just build a box next to the generator cabinet for those things if needed. Just don't want it to get stolen etc.

[@GuysPestSolutions]

@@The_Bearded_Lady I had a 20 lb propane tank stored in the cabinet when it overheated. It didn't blow up, but I think I caught it just before it did. That could have been catastrophic because the cabinet is located about eight feet from my house. Had it blown while I was trying to shut down the generator, I would most likely be dead right now. The temp monitor and the two kill switches definitely add much needed protection. Still, I no longer keep the propane tank inside the cabinet. I have it stored outside the cabinet and I cover it with a small tarp. I only run the generator with propane to avoid carburetor contamination, so I have two 100 lb propane tanks located outside about eight feet from the cabinet and that is also where I put the 20 lb tank. I don't know if you are aware of this, but you can purchase an adapter for the 100 lb tanks that will allow the 20 lb fitting to work on them. So, the bottom line is, my personal recommendation is to put safety first and keep all flammable materials out of the cabinet. When I look back at what happened I am really embarrassed because I should have known better than to risk my life and my families lives on one fan. All mechanical devices are subject to failure and when that failure may result in serious damage or injuries, it's always wise to have at least one back up system in place and never take chances. Boy do I feel stupid, not to mention very lucky. I hope that helps. By the way, check out my channel. I show you how to do your own pest control safely, effectively, and cheaply. I don't' make any money on it. I just like to help people save money. Here's the link to my trailer. It's only 85 seconds long and will take you to my channel. I think it's kind of funny too. You may enjoy it. Thanks. Here is the link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/i3vMaadniNWlgbc

[@arijunal]

this guys motto is, "If your gonna do it, do it right the first time" excellent work dude

[@unitedstatesofbuild4915]

You been on this video for a week now, we're almost on a first name basis

[@chiyookeynes3007]

Just completed the break-in period and so far the unit is operating perfectly kzbin.infoUgkxOTeIs0vv4_9B5hsmnLsk9r930uDQLu_Y . I was amazed by just how quiet this little guy is. I kept having to walk down the driveway to the generator to make sure it was still running. In fact, the most annoying noise coming from the set-up is a high-pitched chirping coming from the pressure regulator on the propane line. I suppose it's possible my other propane-powered generator's pressure regulator is making the same noise, but the generator itself is so loud I've never noticed it. Build quality so far is excellent. My only nit is the service panel is a little tricky to remove. I feel like I might break off one of the plastic tabs when bending it back. I probably just need to work out the technique, so will not hold it against Champion.Next week I intend to fully load the unit to charge a large battery pack and will update this review if there's any problem (3000W continuous load vs a rated 3100W capacity while using propane). Absent any trouble there, I'm 100% pleased with this purchase.

[@jimc4766]

For the viewers information 70-71 dBA is the normal conversation sound level in an office. So achieving 69 dBA is pretty impressive. Great job and nice work!

[@unitedstatesofbuild4915]

Thanks for the useful comment!

[@Vlfkfnejisjejrjtjrie]

@WhyAlways I thought sound decibels are logarithmic and not linear? So that few decibel reduction is noticeable.

[@RandyRandersonthefamous]

Very impressive. For further silencing maybe a couple motorcycle mufflers in line. A shed is super easy to build, but pretty lightweight. Adding some concrete panels inside would help reflect it away from the thin plastic.

[@bavariabearfan]

@@Vlfkfnejisjejrjtjrie You are correct. A 3 db increase in volume is twice as loud as the previous level. A 3 db drop is a reduction of 50%,

[@chlyon]

@WhyAlways 10 decibal reduction is apparently a 10 fold reduction in noise acording to Google butif its down to 69 its probably quite enough to live with

[@cpcattin]

Nice box ! The controlling issue with sound reduction is reducing reflective sound waves. Sound (especially higher frequency) waves travel line of sight. The way to reduce their effect on your ear is to include multiple baffles for the redirection of the sound waves. Sound deadening material is helpful as it is harder to bounce off of a soft surface.

[@Wormanatti]

I built this same box with no experience. 2012 we lost power to Hurricane Sandy for 2 weeks. I was the only person on my block with power because I had 2 generators one 6500 & 5500. Hating ass jealous neighbors was complaining about noise. Built this box & it did wonders. Only thing I did different was I added a 4inch vent pipe with a 90 elbow just to help with exhaust & getting heat out box.

[@IFIXCASTLES]

Noisy inconsiderate ahole!

[@wesman7837]

@@IFIXCASTLES 😆

[@danburch9989]

If the neighbors had generators, I'll guranatee they wouldn't be complaining about any noise.

[@TheMikelikus]

I'm pretty sure your neighbors weren't bothered by the noise, but by the fact you had everything ready and under control!!! Similar situation I already had when hurricane Gilbert struck the yucatan peninsula in 1988!!

[@thomasauto4862]

So professional! And he works alone without cussing!

[@kmacradio]

No cussing!? Now that's just downright Un-American!

[@prestonthomas9406]

No cussing wouldn’t be in my forte, I would have lost my religion 5 minutes into the project. My wife hates to be around me when I start any project. Lol.

[@kumaquattro]

@@prestonthomas9406 No cussing ?? That's why there is video editing !! LOL

[@paulaxton72]

One of the better and complete builds I've seen

[@javiera7001]

YEAH NEED TO UPGRADE MY HOME WITH SOMETHING LIKE THIS. THIS RECENT ICE STORM AND SNOW HERE IN TEXAS WAS NOT FUN AT ALL.

[@CarlosRamTx]

Exactly. That's why I ended up here. I bought a similar generator. This guy's work is excellent.

[@j.zamanma1312]

I had three pipes burst during the Texas storms and bought a generator this size to mitigate summer outages as well. This guy is a true professional with his work and skills. Badass. I wish he was local.

[@edward5979]

Yep, we are in Texas also, watched this video a few weeks ago, had decided on a complete home backup system. The wait list is 1+/2022, canceled that and picked up a Winco DP7500 yesterday. Going to build basically the same setup, except I’m going to run about 6 permanent circuits not connected to the normal power. Thanks for the video !

[@zachnorden933]

Thanks for typing in caps. Much easier

[@blackdogslivesmatter1568]

I will trade you for 106 degrees at midnight with eleven old dogs who could die if you go to work.

[@ashleymarie7452]

It appears that you really know what you're doing, and that you take great pride in doing the job right! Thanks!

[@andyfritchen6409]

Great job. Retired mechanic here and can appreciate good work and you do nice work.

[@unitedstatesofbuild4915]

Thanks 👍

[@johnbushur6080]

Cool build! My key takeaways from this were use of the clamp to adapt the exhaust pipe to the flexible hose, use of the exhaust sealer compound on the joints, wrapping the exhaust with the tape, using the fireblock as sealer, and the spring to center the exhaust pipe in the b vent. Also the commenter who suggested adding a heat sensor as a kill switch had a very good idea

[@joelmiller212]

I ORDERED A tractor muffler from tractor supply, comes with 1 1/4" exhaust pipe with 90, works perfectly for mine!

[@SQTierHog]

Can I just add, you're a badass builder. Please, take the compliment. I can tell you're a humble man. :)

[@C92Moran]

Definitely doing something like this to my home. We lost power for several days due to the ice storm couple weeks back.

[@davidjudd951]

Excellent work there. Just a little reminder to beginners. As with all adjustments, pay attention to the starting point of the fuel/air screw, so you'll have a reference point, if you get it too far out of adjustment one way or the other. I usually mark the screw head, and the body, frame,etc. of whatever it's attached to.

[@fernandizo]

Its two full turns from tight to sea level and 1/2 turn for every few thousand.

[@davidjudd951]

@@fernandizo Thank you

[@izzyryder4969]

The exhaust pipe extending outside by approx 10 ft. is a good idea, but making it the same dia. as the generator's pipe outlet is causing excessive back pressure to the engine. That's the reason your carburetor settings were initially off. You effectively changed the engine's overall tuning. It would be less restrictive to use a much larger outlet pipe. At least 3" (same dia. as dryer vent you installed. The larger dia won't build as much back pressure and also help keep water out of engine.

[@One.--]

You beat me to the punch there that is correct plus causing the overall back pressure on the engine which can cause excessive heat & wear. Nice job though

[@geraldarcuri9307]

Purchase a Camco RV exhaust extension kit. It works great, it's easy to install, and will not affect the engine performance.

[@brightchange6065]

Makes sense ... I have the same generator and the way I got around it was not making it a perfect seal! I found a connector that slides over the exhaust outlet but it's not clamped down. The enclosure it outside, the side walls are open to air 6" under the roof, it runs with the front barn doors open, so it's ok if the exhaust is not perfect.

[@alextriotton]

Beautiful job. I live in a country where electricity is scarce (6-hour outages every day) and I managed to buy 2 generators. I can't get propane cylinders, but I was able to connect the dual fuel system to my home's natural gas line. To achieve this, I had to modify the gas regulator that the generator has. One day I could use it for up to 1 full day with a 70% charge. Many people believe that natural gas cannot be used from the home line, but man does.

[@jonothandoeser]

Good job!

[@tomasbrinki]

Good

[@jeffsjplace]

At least man does !

[@ChatGPT1111]

NG is how all whole house generators (Generac, Kohler, Cummins, Briggs) normally work, at least in North America. I have a 22KW Generac on NG. I also have NG conversion kits on my portable Honda 7KW and 2KW backups.

[@michiganengineer8621]

@@ChatGPT1111 If you're out in the countryside they'll be either diesel or propane for a whole house rig. A friend of mine has a 100KW diesel Generac for their farm/shop. As I understand it, her dad got it at a military surplus sale.

[@meyep6447]

Haven't yet watched the video as we installed a Tri fuel for an 8700W (yes it is enough for our needs!) generator and have needed it a few times for a day or so in the last 4 years. Great investment IMO

[@randyholly2594]

reading the comments of an impeccable installation, I am amazed at the couch spuds who always have a little bit better idea.

[@clayshinn6953]

Exactly!

[@jrvane11]

Recommended improvements don't take away from the ingenuity and craftsmanship shown in this video. I'm sure "the couch spuds" hearts were in the right place.

[@nelsonhochberg5182]

I would suggest adding Rockwool sound absorbing panels to the inside of the foam panels. It would further reduce the sound and they are fireproof.

[@dw6015]

No, these types of insulation are not going to benefit, only create problems. For the lamen, would you wrap an engine with a blanket to keep it cool from the sun? No. You shade it. Provide air cooling pathways and paint everything you can flat black.

[@Hema1400]

He could have made a top open baffle or shroud around the fan and a bottom open baffle around the inlet too. That would have done a lot for the noise. Felt board (asphalt impregnated board) would have been good for sound deadening.

[@padraics]

No, sound absorbing isn't the same as sound blocking. You need mass to block sound, not fluffy insulation.

[@Tron-Jockey]

@@Hema1400 - I agree. I'd put some 1/2" plywood baffling on the inside between the inlet vent and the generator and between the powered output vent and the generator being careful not to restrict cooling airflow. Try to get the Genset on rubber feet to keep some of the energy from being coupled to the plastic floor and to the walls, doors and lid which then vibrate and act like speakers. If you put your hand on the outer surfaces I bet you can feel significant vibrations from the genset.

[@janeblogs324]

The answer is the first thing he used, horse mat

[@stevetadlock5223]

At 11:10 you need to put an HVAC air filter between the grilles. Not only will it keep the dirt out but it will also baffle the sound down!

[@6actual911]

My 13,000 watt gen overheated and melted my box. DO NOT put your generator in a plastic garbage can hut. Build a solid structure

[@weathermannax416]

Mine has a duct for the engine cooling fan shroud and the generator cooling inlet directly to the outside via an insulated flex pipe. That insulation helps to reduce the noise as it is trapped by the fiberglass wool. The heat from the engine and generator head helps push the exhaust gasses out of the enclosure via the 8 inch double insulated stove pipe that is close to the exhaust muffler outlet. I'll used ceramic fiber insulation that is rated to 2,400*F to insulate the enclosure and absorb the sound waves in it's loftiness. Versus a solid barrier that will allow sounds to bounce off of it. Your idea is excellent for the average Joe to do. Not that expensive to make either. Some of us are a little more technically skilled and want to go the extra mile for more added protection in the event the generator "might" catch on fire. As well as the added bonus to help reduce sounds coming from the enclosure. No sense in eating up some electricity with the fan if you have the knowhow to utilize the engine and generator cooling fans. Nice thing about LP and natural gas, the carburetor never gums up like it does with unleaded gasoline.

[@vinyltapelover]

"... the carburetor never gums up like it does with unleaded gasoline." I have two m/cs..a '99 Vulcan Nomad1500 and a '80 Honda 900 custom, a Duro Max 5300 gen, and a A-iPower 2300 inverter gen. I put 91 Octane in all of them, plus for over kill add a little Stabil. The 87 Octane ethanol mix will definitely gum up carbs, hoses etc as I have had first hand experience. I find little performance difference between the 87 and the 91, but the biggest upside is that I have yet to have gumming issues using 91 Octane. So yes, LP and NG are cleaner on parts, but for folks that may not avail themselves of those two sources, for whatever the reason, thecan operate with effectively with 91 octane, as a viable option. Just my humble input as a non technical, non mechanic type guy.

[@yari369]

That enclosure will definitely outlive that generator

[@hanskdavis]

this might be the coolest "DIY" video i've ever seen on youtube.

[@gscott5269]

Great video - I just did a similar install only in a home built 4x8 shed. In Houston here too and I agree with your cost assessment. 3 grand and a few minutes to plug in the interlock cable when you need it (once every few years) vs $25k is a no brainer for me! Well done!

[@SM-bg7tq]

THIS INSTALLER IS SO PRECISE AND TALENTED, BUT THINK THE HOME OWNER SHOULD HAVE JUST PURCHASED A KOHLER GENERATOR. 😊😊😊

[@SM-bg7tq]

KOHLER IS 69db.

[@AdrianJamaal]

He did such a thorough job. I just knew we were going to get down to around 40-50db.

[@aramistech]

This dude is a pro, very detailed installation. Great video

[@jonothandoeser]

VERY pro! Have rarely seen work this thorough!

[@5222k]

Awesome attention to detail and craftsmanship. What a lost art in sole proprietor handy man contractors these days. You must be booked up with jobs beyond what you can schedule. Thanks for sharing video.

[@mattjames9755]

My thoughts exactly... I would definitely pay for that quality work.

[@ImaObserver2]

Since it is open upward that way, you need to put a downward bend on the end of that exhaust pipe as it is going to catch rain and send it down to the engine.

[@toddgittins5692]

Rain cap.

[@wesman7837]

He actually has it pointing out not up.

[@funnyfarmdad9997]

I have a Champion 9500/7500 Dual Fuel generator that I want to “hide”. This video is giving me ideas on how to do it. Thanks!

[@gregorysattler7021]

I do sound attenuation all time. Pretty good job! You could have put baffle boxes on the air intake and exhaust vents, increase the diameter of exhaust line, put a muffler on it too. Since exhaust is point up a rain cap should be used, other wise rain is going to fill up in the engine head or deeper.

[@unitedstatesofbuild4915]

Thanks for the tips! I did turn the exhaust tip to a little past 90*

[@SuperMassman]

YOU ARE IMPRESSIVE,,, a very smart man that knows his trade. Thank you. I sunsbribed because of this video

[@peteaulit]

Besides all the comments worth considering, I’d say that a safety shutoff in case of fan failure would be a must, my friend! I do a lot of commissioning and QC not to mention my own setups and safety is always the number one concern. A backup generator is pretty useless on a burned house...

[@unitedstatesofbuild4915]

I agree, do you have a product that you use to hook up a high-temp shutoff circuit?

[@peteaulit]

@@unitedstatesofbuild4915 I never had to do this in a DYI situation, so I would go the path of least resistance and try a temp sensor wired to the generator shut-off circuit (the "off" button) to star and try how well it works by unplugging the fan and closing the box and wait. It shouldn't take long...

[@nc818]

Yeah imagine if that generator caught on fire and the only way to put it out would be to cut off the natural gas, which is less than 3 feet away. this generator is in the wrong place, also I don’t see the point of putting it on the house except or for aesthetic purposes, I wouldn’t sacrifice safety for that. A plastic shed is going to be an eyesore any where

[@jamesburke9165]

Only thing you might want to do is check to see if neutral is grounded on the generator. If so uncouple the ground from the neutral so that you only have a ground at your electrical panel otherwise you will get current on your ground wire in your cable from the generator to your panel.

[@renejackson7652]

I did an almost identical project at home a few years back. I used cement board on the inside because I didn't want anything to burn. Biggest noise escape was through the vents. I had to rig an external baffle to muffle the sound.

[@unitedstatesofbuild4915]

Good solution, readily available product. Thanks!!

[@Mr-Chris]

Thank you for posting this, I have the same generator and I'm planning on converting it to Tri-fuel. Your the only video I could find that shows this generator running on natural gas. I suggest you update your tags for this video to include the modle name of Duromax "XP12000EH" as many owners of this generator who are interested in conversion and can find this video

[@unitedstatesofbuild4915]

Thanks, will do

[@metroplexchl]

Your craftsmanship and attention to detail are awesome. Hope you made some bad ass money on this.

[@jeremiahsingleton5666]

Very impressive. Your skills and knowledge cross many different technical arenas. Thank you so much for taking the time to edit and post the video!

[@beachthor1]

i didn't even know you could drill screws into concrete. a true man of the trades here, great vid

[@jerrybates5791]

A true Professional Homeowner install. Great idea.

[@martinnightingale6033]

Nice job . First thought I had was . Ditch the wheels and rubber mount it to the floor .

[@fordtechchris]

Reading the comments below, it's clear people don't understand wattage ratings. I'm going to use a bunch of you ideas. Thank you for this. And may California one day be spared from the ignorance governing them.

[@Cotton088]

Great job, great video. I have only one criticism. Your ground rod should be tied into the whole house ground at the meter. If you don’t have a concentric ground, you could have issues.

[@FBPrepping]

I hate when skilled people makes things look easy. To cut a straigth line on a board with a circular saw in the air? come on dude. You're an expert. Great video. And the chain lock plate is a great addition. Thanks.

[@greggloch1753]

Thank you for making this video, great ideas here. You have undoubtedly helped thousands and thousands of DIY.

[@duaneroepke8840]

I hesitated in asking this stupid question but here it goes. For the cost (just guessing), wouldn't buying an "inverter" generator been the way to go as they are very quiet to start with even the larger wattage units. Build a simple 3 side wall unit/blind with 6-10in air space between wall and roof. This could even be made "knock down" and put together with pins and stored away. No worries about over heating, exhaust will take care of itself, still be out of the weather, and easy to maintain. Still have a provision to chain it down but could be kept inside your garage and used for other projects and not just dedicated to this one purpose. Quick disconnects would allow the use of propane or natural gas. I can appreciate that this also is being done for out of sight out of mind and for aszthetics but even a simple overhead weather cover with removable sides in the backyard would do and still be quiet.

[@bobsmith1965]

What a great job. Learned a lot. I just got the Duromax 10,000 duel fuel generator and was looking at a small shed to house it in where it will be used. Never thought of the insulation.

[@lukebrennan5780]

4 inches of rock wool all around those walls would make this thing super quiet. The exhaust fan could use a baffle on the outside to block that sound source, without blocking the air flow. Good stuff.

[@pwestjr]

Where are you when I need you ?😄 We are currently waiting on our new DuroMax 12000EH generator and I found this video and absolutely love the work you did in setting up this generator with insulated housing. Trying to find a guy like you that seems very skilled will be tough as even I do have this skill set. Great install and video!

[@unitedstatesofbuild4915]

Thanks for the comment! Good luck on your install

[@teter129]

Not my speed. Buts its nice to see quality installation and craftsmanship! Nicely done, I wish all contractors performed the way you do!

[@ronaldwise4706]

Your idea of the tri fuel generator is perfect. That's been my thought all along living here in Phoenix and your idea of putting it inside that enclosure if excellent. Great idea thank you

[@newgeneration3496]

69db that’s a super quiet shop vac so that’s a great reduction. customers gen is a super loud and if u made your own box this would prolly be even better. But you have great ideas repurposing stuff. Great video man, men of many trades are hard to find.

[@dalerice9461]

Thanks so much for sharing. You inspired my project and I used most of the same techniques with a few modifications. One thing I added was a bluetooth Govee temperature monitor to watch the inside temp during operation from in the house. So far on a warm day 90 deg. my Duromax XP4850 dual fuel runs at around 110 degrees with all doors closed. Rough sound reduction was from 72 down around 61 db. I have tested on propane and will normally use gasoline. Nice setup and looks great too. Thanks Again.

[@unitedstatesofbuild4915]

That is awesome!

[@CarlosRamTx]

This is awesome! Your work on this is beyond Gold. It's Platinum! Seriously. Well done. You thought it out so well. This popped up since I just bought a similar generator and I was looking at videos. I'm glad it popped up. 👍👍

[@andytachibanalover9495]

Congrats man, what a perfect, professional job you did installing. What was the final cost of this install to the homeowner?

[@morenoraul13]

I’ll like to know I live in the eastern part of the state. I would gladly pay this dude trip to install me one.

[@michaelgrimm4689]

Ton of work for reduction of 12 decibels, but very impressed with the caliber of craftsmanship.

[@frugalaudio]

3-4" of semi rigid mineral wool panels would be way better on noise reduction I believe. It's also pretty cheap.

[@whiskeysauer]

That's still pretty darn loud. I have my diesel gen setup inside a concrete enclosure. I also added an exhaust fan and pipe exhaust through a port on the side. Those both face to the rear of our lot. The entire enclosure is then setup about 100ft from the house. The conduit runs underneath a sidewalk we installed and leads into the house where we can operate an ATS. It's a great setup. You can't hear it running inside the house outside at all.

[@GetOutOverland]

Well done sir! Excellent build.

[@Random-rt5ec]

That’s a nice looking setup - Because my neighbors are just a few feet away I’d need to find a way to reduce the sound even more I might have to build a concrete box.

[@kezzatries]

Yep use lead, perfect sound insulation. Use sheet lead, want to experiment? Just lay sheet over the wife's food mixer, you'll be surprised. Easy too.

[@unitedstatesofbuild4915]

or over the wife....the food mixer is quiet in comparison

[@transformed613]

100% no doubt home owner is lucky they found you to carry out their will. Not easy to find people to help w/custom projects. As far as this project I would have kept it a totally temporary installation due to permit codes and home owner insurance etc. If you are going to do a permanent install better to go w/full size "Generac" system that will comply with all the laws and codes. Best Regards.

[@gsloehr]

sorry to over priced!!!!!!!!

[@Honestandtruth007]

Great job man and well planned 👍👍 I also Converted to Tri-fuel for Natural Gas 3 or 4 years ago Now I need to Sound Reduction

[@urself25]

I'm looking to buy this and do the NG converter instead of buying a tri-fuel. How many watts can you draw on NG compared to propane? Tri-fuel generators seems to loose lot of running watts between the 2. Thanks.

[@Honestandtruth007]

@@urself25 Good question Every generator is different. Let just say on the Running wattage at 7,000 watts on Gasoline and Propane running watts would be 6,300 watts and on Natural Gas would be 5,700 watts Remaining because Natural Gas is a lot lighter than Propane.

[@urself25]

@@Honestandtruth007 Thanks for the reply.

[@rterry2752]

Nice work, nice having all the tools to do a job too.

[@unitedstatesofbuild4915]

Thanks 👍

[@JackAgainski]

Another good sound deadener would be to collect old egg cartons and staple them to the inside walls with the inside of the carton to the walls and the top panel. They break up the sound waves.

[@Vlfkfnejisjejrjtjrie]

Not really. Any novice with a homes studio knows this does nothing. In the case of the gen enclosure, it could be a fire hazard.

[@JackAgainski]

@@Vlfkfnejisjejrjtjrie Only the foam type will do any good. The cardboard ones are useless. Acoustic foam is a better option, but you have to pay for it.

[@BState]

The reflective layers from inside the box will cause the generator to overheat, it's gonna be like an oven. You need to remove or cover them to avoid the radiated heat from the generator to be reflected back to it, not the other way around. Also, rockwool would be more than twice as efficient to achieve what you wanted to achieve. Styrofoam transmits sound almost like wood, it doesn't dampen it.

[@MichaelBurke-f2p]

Glad to see someone putting some type of cover on these gen's that are not for outdoor use in bad weather. Only thing the inlet receptacle doesn't have an in use cover that is the main thing I see most all of the DIY KZbinrs doing. They seem to miss the fact that most likely it wont be bluebird sky's when you need your gen. Question what's the 20Lb. tank for?

[@MrBillCNW]

It was pretty ingenious all the work you did thank you for sharing

[@richt8297]

Great job. The only thing I would have done different is I would have spaced out that exhaust pipe away from the house wall about 3 inches or so and put some exhaust header heat wrap around that flex pipe coming out of the generator muffler inside the cabinet.

[@unitedstatesofbuild4915]

Probably wouldnt hurt. I kept it unwrapped just in case they ever unhooked it and moved the gen. The exhaust is cool enough by the house that I didnt feel like it needed to be spaced anymore. That said this is stucco, if it was wood or vinyl then I def would space it further

[@robertharker]

2" Rockwool insulation is better. Better sound absorption than Styrofoam and it is fire proof.

[@stevetyler2586]

I agree, using rockwool insulation on the inside panels will pretty much absorb the sound making it quite.

[@drdremd]

I’d recommend something flexible and high mass. Maybe rubber mat.

[@korlimservices4180]

Maybe he prefer not working with rockwool.

[@QS-si3cq]

@@stevetyler2586 *quiet. Say it outloud to yourself. "Quite" is totally different.

[@GMKovach]

@@stevetyler2586 How would you install the Rockwool insulation? I assume you would frame out the interior of the shed? Or do you have something else in mind? What about the lid?

[@curthill7123]

Very nice! I would suggest one further step If you add a baffle box on both vents angled down you will like it, better

[@JohnDoe-ut3sz]

amazing set up. id rather pay someone to do this for me. this is beyond my skills.

[@28704joe]

Consider the following: The metal foil visible inside the enclosure reflects the sound waves and has them bounce around ( yes some are absorbed) until it finds an exit. If instead one used a rock wool insulation it would absorb a greater proportion of sound than the metallic wall.

[@louscab]

Great job on the install and more video!

[@jmo6722]

Looks nice lots of work for minimal decibels

[@USNERDOC]

Sweet! Very nice install and super informative video.

[@firstandlast8674]

I Just finished putting together my set up. I would like to thank you for your post and some great tips. Looking forward to ERCOT dropping the ball again this winter. 👍😜

[@smithn.wesson495]

You have a really good idea and are very talented. There is no doubt this system will work out well. One question - Add up the cost of everything you spent, from the generator, pipe, tri-fuel adapter kit, caulks, tools, - everything for the entire project. Wouldn't of been cheaper, faster and easier just to have a Generac Full Home Standby permanent generator? Generac 10kW with Wi-Fi smart phone control starts at $2,759.

[@unitedstatesofbuild4915]

Maybe. My part was just what was shown in the video. Id be curious to know the answer too though

[@5thGenNativeTexan]

Full home will also require a transfer switch... my Generac ATS (automatic transfer switch) was about a thousand. Gas plumbing and electrical hookup will run a thousand or so (there's a lot of wiring to be done to install the transfer switch for whole house), generator pad if you need it. A DIY install, subcontracting out the parts like electrical, can save you a lot of money, but I'd estimate you're still looking at $2-3K on top of the generator itself. I have a Generac 27KW QS (quiet series), which runs about $11K, and my turn-key install was $15K. So $4K of that was the transfer switch, electrical, concrete pad, and gas hookup which was slightly more expensive because the had to have the gas company run a new gas line and meter because my house gas meter was on completely the other side of the house from where my power meter and gen install was. I did my whole house install 11 years ago and have been very happy. You can see the video at kzbin.info/www/bejne/mpOvh3qPjJpshrs

[@prettygirlus9008]

In 2015, I got an estimate from Lowes for a whole house 20kw Generac install w/ transfer switch for $5500. I foolishly didn't want to spend that much. The same install was $10,000 in 2018, and surely more than that today. I ended up buying a Sportsman GENTRI9K tri-fuel portable generator rated at 9000 watts surge/7200 watts run, but surely 25% power loss when running on NG. Price in 2018 was $1500. Can be a little finicky and unstable on NG, but will simultaneously run the fridge, all lights, two fans, sump pump, garage door opener, and two 8000 BTU window AC units. Thinking about buying the Duromax XP12000EH and adding an NG conversion kit.

[@smithn.wesson495]

prettygirlus900 I own the Duromax XP1200EH. A great generator and have also considered a NG hookup to make it tri-fuel. Be sure to do you load calculations carefully as the amount of running current will drop significantly with natural gas through a LP gas system. It would be awful to buy the Duromax , new regulator and adapter kit to end up short and not enough power for a full house backup. Doing the math and load calculations is extremely important.

[@longshot7590]

Excellent work! You have several top notch ideas here

[@electropalsceo]

I loved the whole idea of trying to suppress the sound, but it seem to only bring it down a few decibels, im not sure if it was all worth the time and money. Thank you for sharing , this help me decide to go with the genetic model .

[@bennoah1673]

you cant screw the foam on, sound transfer point. use adhesive.

[@zhasouris]

Decibels are measured logarithmically so 12 Decibels is pretty substantial, but I bet you could get a better decrease with some fine tuning.

[@theendofallthingsisuponus1575]

Generic can cost $10-15K , this can run from $1500-$2500. Watch more videos, there many ways to do this

[@johnm6120]

At least it's protected from the elements.

[@peterbedington4414]

I love the reggae/surf sound of the music!!!!

[@texaslawdawg1902]

There is some good logic here. I’m not in a trade, so I have no comment regarding the natural gas hook up. However that exhaust run is really long. Are you concerned with increased back pressure or burning the exhaust valves? The Duromax is deafening loud. Ask me how I know.

[@unitedstatesofbuild4915]

Im not too worried about the valves. When I was researching this project I came across a lot of info on people routing RV generator exhausts much further. I believe the slow sweeping bends and the ample ID's of the tubing I used should present 0 problems. Thanks for watching.

[@nancylyles1570]

backpressure or burning valves would come into play if he removed the muffler, the muffler is also built for this, so he will not have backpressure issues.

[@paulwoodman5131]

I was just talking about putting a generator in one of these storage boxes, then this popped up in my feed. Nice job, and some good ideas in the comments about temp switches. I didn't.see power cables running out of the enclosure. (oh there it is at 20:28)And hopefully not too hard to change the oil in the generator.

[@wilsonsoriano2003]

What a perfect professional job. If you don't mind me asking how much was all this work not including the generator? Do you happen to know anyone that can do the same in Houston Texas?

[@theendofallthingsisuponus1575]

should not run u more than $2500.00 but there are many ways of doing this for $1500-2000 watch more videos

[@dbrown597]

This is truly a great job. I enjoyed watching it

[@D70340]

Damn good job! Looks very good! Couple things i would have done different, but i`m not here to correct or bash anyone. I think the gentleman did a fantastic quality job.

[@rsrnsrwds]

Very impressive! I wonder what the total cost of this installation was? Yes, you'd have a VERY big business doing this here in Texas right now!!! You can start on my house!

[@manzam01]

I love the video, back when I was looking for this type of video 3-4 years ago, the dual fuel generator was available but nothing out there on how to install. I did buy a Champion 11.5 Kw whole house backup generator and installed the entire thing myself and works perfect, no issues but was really expensive over the portable generator. I think I paid $2400 and was really heavy trying to get into position, no cost to me over that since I installed but really heavy, no wheels.. I like the portability of your kit. I would say no way that small exhaust tube holds up, you need a much bigger exhaust area, you have to look at it like resistance, like a muffler. The Champion and Generacs blow it all out over a large area, I would expand it like a furnace exhaust and flow it out where you want it but the install is very nice. I am here for the box idea, I have a fence around my generator but I do not like the look, it helps, I screwed in mats to muffle the sound and works, I just do not like the fence look, large, takes a lots space, looking for something else, I think your surround idea fits the bill. For batteries, I would recommend the following, maintenance free and avoid the garden batteries, they just fail constantly. Get a solar battery maintainer, so battery stays charged, start up the generator every week to be sure it works. tinyurl.com/t8twxf8w

[@robhill8894]

It would be much quieter if the customer was using the "correct" inverter style generator that is safe for electronics. That generator is a construction style generator. Those are much cheaper and unfortunately, many people buy them for the price, not realizing why they are cheaper.

[@renegonzalez5958]

Can you recommend where to buy a inverter style generator for home use? Thanks

[@TheNemosdaddy]

That only applies if you are plugging directing into the generator. So stop with the bullshit "you know it all" attitude. What this guy did is perfectly fine for a whole house setup.

[@robertottwell605]

Honda or Yamaha are both good I have both. They last a long time.

[@Wormanatti]

Inverters don't generally have the power these open style generators have. I want to power everything necessary in my home in a power outage. I say have both but this the way to go if you have a family that likes hot water, use of their devices & not losing food. I have 2 refrigerators & I'm not trying to lose the food.

[@Wormanatti]

@@TheNemosdaddy Exactly! Always have to be a smarty pants in the pack. My 6500 Generac had me rocking for 2 weeks in power outage.

[@keithsauer3574]

What a cool little project!

[@SQTierHog]

Duuuude. Wow. Thank you! Subbed. United States of Build...hell yeah.

[@TheTferrer]

Excellent work - the generator is very loud.

[@mjc4942]

Great job. Seems like with all that you're probably not saving much money over an enclosed installed Generac.

[@JS-nk4re]

I just got a quote for a generac 22kw installed for $14k i priced a setup like that for $3500 if i install it myself.

[@mjc4942]

@@JS-nk4re awesome. I spent about $1000. As much as I should have to use it.... I'll be fine. I'm happy I have enough for what I need.

[@wesman7837]

@@mjc4942 you got a Generac standby for a 1,000$ installed? I'm calling BS on that one!

[@mjc4942]

@@wesman7837 you jumped to conclusions. I just said what I spent for a generator. And trying to comment that if you had to pay a contractor a fair amount plus materials, it would quickly add up.

[@adriancressy8363]

Time flies.....gonna attack this generator project this week and sweat it out. Your video is extremely helpful

[@TheBeingReal]

That plastic housing will burn really well.

[@CurtisDrew1]

My thought exactly! That fan gets jammed up by a bird nest or mud bobbers and it's going to meltdown and catch fire. And there goes the building it's next to. I would prefer a sheet metal storage building with rockwool insulation for sound deadening. But hey. If it's only for emergencues it may last. I'm wondering if it has remote start or does it have to have all the valves manually opened and switches flipped? They make motor controlled valves. Kinda pricey, but do able. I use them on my air compressor lines in my 3000 sq ft Commercial shop. When I flip the Compressor switch, mounted nest to the shop light switches at the entry door, it doesn't turn the Air Compressor on at all. It opens the valve and charges the shops air lines. Compressor stays on 24 7. Just, if there's no air used the compressor stays off. Turn off the switch with the shop lights and the valve closes. I could see these same valves used on propane lines and only opened when the generator is in the on position.

[@richardwebster1772]

The tee at the gas meter is there so that the Gas Company can bypass the meter which allows them to work on it .You should have used a tee instead of a 90 ……this way the Gas Company can still repair or replace the meter. Great video!

[@stevetadlock5223]

Need a sound baffle around the exhaust fan that draws the air from the top, would cut the sound by 6-8 more db...

[@fernandoa.dejesus190]

Excellent video, very instructional, very good craftsmanship, glad I came across this installation.

[@a-rod2568]

WHAT WAS THE PRICE TAG ON THIS AWESOME PROJECT?

[@rdh53]

Any job worth doing is worth doing well. You did well!