We live in a world, where natural disasters are pretty common. And they often come with lots of problems.
However, among all the problems, one common issue that we face is the power outages. And this is something that we all hate.
Without power we fail to charge our devices, we fail to communicate with others, and most importantly we spend our nights in the dark. And this is where the Generators come into play.
They are the best thing to use whenever there is a power cut. But there is one thing that we all hate is the fact that generators make a lot of noise.
And if you happen to be someone who hates noise just like me, then you probably have looked for things to reduce the noise.
Well, there are quite a lot of things that you can do to reduce the noise coming from the Generator. But the most common solution is to use a soundproof box for the generator.
You can create a generator soundproof box, or you can simply purchase one. But the thing about the ready-made ones is that they cost a lot. But the good part is that if you choose to make it.
Then it will be a budget-friendly option. So the question is How to Build a Soundproof Box for a Generator?
Well if you have the same question in your head. Then you better stick with this page. As I am going to talk about all the steps that you have to follow.
So let’s just head into the topic without wasting much of the time:
How to Build a Soundproof Box for a Generator?
So let’s just talk about all the things that you will be needing to build the soundproof box. So we can start with the job.
Things you need to build Soundproof box for Generator
And these things are the:
- A measuring tape
- Paper and pencil
- Right angle ruler
- MDF – Medium Density Fiberboard. (It is the main material for the box).
- A saw (table or circular)
- MLV – Mass Loaded Vinyl (This will be the first layer that you will add to your soundproof generator box).
- Some Glue
- Foam mats (It will be an additional later which will come in handy after soundproofing anything).
- Acoustic caulk (for example Green Glue, it will be used for gluing the edges of the soundproof box)
- Screws and nails
- Hammer and screwdriver
- Some ventilation duct (The ventilation duct will provide a nice airflow and supply for your generator box).
- Vents
Note:
Do remember the fact that muting a generator completely is next to impossible. Even after all the hard work, it will still make some noise. But yes, a soundproof box surely helps in damping the sound a lot.
Also, while creating the box, make sure to leave some vents as the generator needs a lot of air. So it can prevent the soundproof box from getting overheat. So do make sure to create holes and vents for the air to pass.
Start With Some Measurements
Before you step into the hard part, you better take some measurement. All the generators come in different sizes which is an obvious fact. So whenever you are creating a box make sure to take a measurement of the generator.
Make sure you are taking the accurate measurement as it is the most important step. Even take the measurement twice or thrice to prevent creating mess later.
Once you have the correct measurement, you better write them down. Then you do add a few more inches to all the sizes because you will need some space for the insulation and vents.
Also, you have to put the generator in. Once you have the final measurements with you, its time to move to the second steps.
Cut The Box
Now, its time to get started with the hard work. So you have the measurements, so let’s just start with cutting the wood for the box.
You can use plywoods as your box material if you do not find the fiberboard. But the thing about plywood is that it may not work the same way as the fiberboard will do.
I was searching for some plywood on Amazon and I would highly recommend these plywoods.
However, no matter which material you are using, you use your pencil and the right angle ruler to label the measurements on the fiberboard. And once you are sure everything is alright. Start cutting the wood.
Use a table saw or circular saw whichever you are comfortable with. Just make sure that you are following the correct measurements while cutting the plywood or fiberboard. Once done, you are all set to move to the next step.
Setting Some Ventilation Holes
Now we have to set some ventilation holes so we can prevent the generator from getting heat. So let’s start with the ventilation duct and measure the diameter. Then you have to mark some circles on the fiberboard or plywood.
After that, the first one should be placed on the top piece of the fiberboard. Make sure to place the ventilation duck in a bit more one side and not in the center of the board.
The second later should be laced on a board which will be used as a wall. Plus, you have to place that on the opposite side from the top hole.
Add the Mass Loaded Vinyl Insulation
Next, we have to add the mass loaded vinyl insulation. The first rule of the soundproofing is the layers. The layer materials are the only things which make the difference. While making a layer, you have to think of layers of free space and sound groups.
These layers will make some room for the sound to scatter. Also, while creating layers one of the best materials that you can use is the mass loaded vinyl.
So simply label the measures of your quiet generator box, and then cut the mass loaded vinyl to the size of it. After that, use glue to stick the layers to the wall, and you are all done.
Caulking That First Layer You Made
While sticking the edges, you may hard time to hold them together. And there is a high chance that it will come off. However, to avoid such a thing you can use green which is perfect for this purpose.
Gluing The Foam Mat On
Next, we have to glue the foam mat on. As I have already mentioned about layers. So yes, in this step we will be adding one more layer to walls and ceiling of the soundproof box. And this time we will be using foam mat.
Foam mats are very soft in nature. So they will make it hard for the sound to jump around the box. And reduce the sound a lot.
Once again take the measurement of your walls and then cut the foam mat according to that. After that, you have to place the mat after the vinyl layer, and you are all set.
Putting The Box Together
Next, you have to put the box together. Now that you are done creating all the walls and ceilings let’s put all the parts together.
Start by assembling the walls around the ceiling and attach each of the walls one to another using nails and screws. You can also install some hinges to get easy access to the generator.
Installing the Venting Duct
In the end, you have to install the venting duct. We will need to give the generator a lot of air so it can prevent the heat. Once you are done creating all the vents, use a lot of venting duct.
As you are already aware of the fact that sound waves travel in a straight path. So if you use some bends in front of the sound waves, then it the sound will jump, and a lot of noise will get caught. And this is what venting duct is for.
Final Words
So that was all for your question which says how to build a soundproof box for a generator. Now it is your call to go ahead and check the steps out and see how it is working for you. Also, for any questions do comment below.
