Running a food truck business is not exactly the same as a regular restaurant. It’s easier to hook the latter up to the grid; mobile food businesses need an external portable power source.
However, there are a lot of factors to consider when pinning down the right generator for your foodservice business, from size to fuel efficiency, run time, noise level, etc.
On top of that, there are different options out there, which makes choosing the perfect one for your business a bit challenging and overwhelming.
Without further ado, here’s a list of the best quiet generators for food trucks and a detailed buying guide to ensure you make an informed decision.
Top 6 Best Quiet Generators for Food Truck to Buy on Amazon
WEN 56380i Super Quiet 3800-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
Taking our top spot is the top-performing WEN 56380i Super Quiet 3800-Watt Portable Inverter Generator. This heavy-duty model offers up to 3,800 watts of power, which is more than enough for your food truck.
This machine is designed to power your cooking appliances from refrigerators to microwaves, TVs, etc. Also, it can come in handy at home in case of a power outage, thanks to its steady and clean power.
This ultra-quiet generator is one of the lightest machines on this list, weighing about 99 lbs. It comes with automatic idle control and an electric start for an easy and reliable startup while ensuring you don’t run out of power during the foodservice operation. The portable generator features essential outlets – a USB port, a DC 12V port, an AC120V port.
Down to its performance, the WEN 56380i operates whisper quiet despite its incredible power output, thanks to the manufacturer’s muffler design suppressing the noise to about 57 dB.
Also, it features an automatic voltage regulator to protect against overloading, brownouts, or blackouts and guarantee a stable output. This model has 8.5 hours of runtime, which should be long enough to prep your ingredients, cook, and serve your customers.
Plus, it’s equipped with fuel shut-off features to allow you to use this generator without pollution in areas where gas isn’t permitted.
Pros:
- Low noise level
- It comes on sturdy wheels
- Includes a carry handle for easy handling
- Several start options
Cons:
- Heavy for wattage
Generac GP3500iO Open Frame RV Ready Inverter Generator
Coming close is the Generac GP3500iO with a starting 3,500W and runs at 3,000 W to handle your power needs. This portable inverter generator is an excellent choice for on the go.
It offers clean, reliable power to operate your essential cooking appliances. Plus, its lightweight design makes it easy to transport and maneuver. Generac GP3500iO Open Frame RV Ready Inverter Generator runs more quietly than most options out there, making it a top choice for people looking to power sensitive rood foodservice without causing distraction.
This generator comes with a traditional manual pull cord featuring the brand’s PowerRush technology for effortless startup, considering the strong current this equipment requires.
What’s more? It’s a 4-stroke 212cc Generac OHV engine running off gasoline. With about 2-gallon fuel capacity, the GP3500iO delivers nearly 11 hours of runtime at 25% load on a full tank. Further, it comes with an automatic shut-off feature and a spark arrestor to allow food truck owners to operate this equipment with peace of mind.
On top of that, the control panel is user-intuitive with a PowerDial controlling the PowerRush function, a grounding location, three indicator lights, an integrated hour meter, and an economy switch.
It has a running power of 3,000W and a 3,500W peak wattage. This model works well with parallel kits for extra power from other generators. This equipment delivers enough power to operate your work tools, camping equipment, household amenity, cooking appliance, etc.
Pros:
- 3-year manufacturer warranty
- Lightweight frame for easy transportation
- Impressive 11 hours runtime
- Several safety features
Cons:
- The eco switch could be more reliable
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment iGen4500 Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
When to whisper-quiet generators on the market, you can’t go wrong with this model from Westinghouse. This generator is engineered to be up to 30% quieter than its predecessors and portable enough to transport in a van or truck without a sweat.
This latest model offers up to 3,700 watts of running power and peaks at 4500 watts to handle larger loads such as freezers, air conditioners, ovens, fridges, etc. One of the highlights of the Westinghouse iGen4500 Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator is the design.
The manufacturer has designed this power equipment to be lightweight at 93 pounds and remarkably durable to withstand the rigors of daily use. Also, they steer clear of protruding fuel tanks, which solves the issue of hitting or bumping into them.
Needless to say, this power machine operates without disturbing the tranquility and peace of your workspace or home. Plus, it ensures you can easily communicate with your customers without sticking your ear into their mouths. Its aluminum housing contains the engine’s noise and mufflers in the exhaust stream, suppressing the noise level.
Furthermore, this model is equipped with an electric start push-button mechanism for easy operation. Another thoughtful design is the integrated handles on both sides of the machine for easy carry and handling.
With a massive 18 hour runtime and 52 dB noise level, it’s safe to say that Westinghouse iGen4500 Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator is the best quiet generator for food trucks.
Pros:
- Rotating digital display
- Backed by 3-year limited warranty
- Push Button & Remote Electric Start
- Impressive 18 hrs runtime
Cons:
- Some customers had issues with the choke
Champion Power Equipment 100302 4000-Watt RV Ready Open Frame Inverter
Earning a spot on our list of the best quiet generators is the Champion Power Equipment 100302 4000-Watt RV Ready Open Frame Inverter. This model is available in different power ratings from 4,000W to 8,750W.
However, this equipment is a 4,000-watt open frame design with the brand’s patented Cycloconversion technology, which guarantees that this unit can handle up to 3,500-watts of load. More so, it’s equipped with a voltage regulator to stabilize the running conditions delivering the much-needed power supply to your appliances or electronics.
Unlike other models from this brand, the Champion Power Equipment 100302 features a slightly different design. This equipment is an open frame inverter, meaning it lacks a cabinet or case to protect the cables and components inside it.
It’s understandable if you’re considering the safety of this generator around your business or home. But, the manufacturer assures customers that the open frame inverter was designed with safety and durability in mind that you can rely on.
Down to the performance, the Champion Power Equipment 100302 has peak watts of 4000 and a 3,500 continuous wattage that runs for a more extended period. Even so, it features noise-suppressing insulation to optimal performance without disturbing the tranquility of the area.
Needless to say, it features an inverter to provide clean energy to power your sensitive electronics like smartphones and TVs. Champion Power Equipment 100302 is rugged, durable, and heavy-duty, a perfect addition to your food truck. You don’t need to take our word for it; the manufacturer backs the engine with 3 years warranty and 10 years on the other parts.
Pros:
- Massive 2.9-gallon fuel tank
- Up to 17 hrs run time
- Cold Start Technology
- Durable and heavy-duty construction
- Available in different power ratings
Cons:
- Slightly noisy
Briggs & Stratton 30795 P4500 PowerSmart Series, Engine Inverter Generator
With 4,500 watts of max power, the Briggs & Stratton 30795 P4500 PowerSmart Series can be the best quiet generator for food trucks. This generator features handles and wheels for easy maneuvering, handling, and transportation.
That’s not the best part: this model comes with a compelling price tag. This inverter generator is a steal with almost the same performance as the high-end Honda or Yamaha 4000 watts models and nearly half the price.
Like most top choices on this list, the Briggs & Stratton 30795 P4500 PowerSmart Series is compatible with a parallel kit to connect this equipment with another unit to double the power output.
Furthermore, this machine delivers a 3,700 continuous wattage and a peak of 4500 wattages, which should suffice for your campsite and RV. Another exciting thing about this inverter generator is the push-button electric start with an automatic choke for an easy, and convenient startup.
Also, it comes with a multifunctional display panel to allow you to keep track of the run time, fuel level, and power usage. Even better, it features CO Guard carbon monoxide shutdown technology to prevent the machine from emitting toxic levels of carbon monoxide. Hence, the Briggs & Stratton 30795 P4500 PowerSmart Series is a go-to for people looking to reduce their footprint.
Pros:
- Large 3.5-gallon fuel capacity
- Telescoping handle for easy maneuverability
- CO Guard carbon monoxide shutdown technology for extra protection
- Multifunctional display panel
Cons:
- Customer service could be better
A-iPower SUA2000iV 2000 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
Our list won’t be complete without the A-iPower SUA2000iV 2000 Watt Portable Inverter Generator. It’s the best option for anyone running a small food truck business and needs a portable, whisper-quiet inverter generator.
This machine has a 1,600 continuous wattage and a starting wattage of 2000. It delivers safe and clean power for your sensitive electronics such as laptops, TVs, smartphones, etc.
More importantly, this powerful 4 stroke 79cc OHV engine runs at a quiet 52bB level. Plus, it comes with low oil auto shutdown and an oil alert system to protect the inverter generator.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design
- Quiet operation at only 58 dB
- A-iPower’s “Low idle” technology for prolonged run time
- Perfect for travel, camping, and tailgating
Cons:
- Only suitable for small food truck businesses
Things to Consider When Shopping for the Best Quiet Generator for Food Truck
Type of Generator
Basically, two types of generators are best suited for food trucks – inverter generators or conventional generators.
Conventional Generators
These are primary generators with a motor and alternator to generate power. They require constant RPM and usually deliver higher power output. Conventional generators are not compatible with the parallel kits and tend to be larger and heavier.
Other benefits of this type of generator are their longer run time and lower price tag.
Inverter Generators
They are relatively new in the market and utilize advanced circuitry and multiphase power equipment. When it comes to fuel efficiency, they are your go-to. Also, you can adjust the engine speed depending on your energy requirement.
They are lighter and portable for on-the-go. Inverter generators run with lesser vibrations and noise. The run time might not be as extended as conventional models, but it should be enough for your food truck business. The deal break might be the hefty price tag.
Noise Less
If you’re running a food truck service, you want to consider the noise level. Otherwise, you might have challenging communications with your customers and, worse, disrupt the area’s tranquility.
Hence, it’s essential that you check out the decibel output before splurging on a generator. This way, you can guarantee that your food service environment can be comfortable for your clientele. You don’t want to come running backs because your loud power equipment turned off your clients.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is another pressure point for your food trucks. It’s best to opt for equipment that delivers the much-needed power without taking up all the space. Food trucks are limited on space, and, as such, you don’t have to carry additional fuel tanks or own a generator that takes up all space.
Hence, you want to consider models that offer higher runtime without having backup fuel/power.
Extra Features
Equipment with additional features is designed with convenience or safety in mind. So, you don’t want to be too quick in ignoring the extra features. For example, some generators offer dual fuel options, which means you can choose between propane and gas depending on availability or preference.
How to Build a Food Truck: Finding the right Generator for you
Conclusion
That concludes our curated list of the best quiet generators for food trucks to buy at present. We hope our buying guide and top 6 recommendations make your decision process easier and increase your odds of splurging on the perfect generator for your business. However, we strongly advise you to hire a professional while setting the equipment up for safety and better performance.
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