How Quiet Is a Silent Generator? dB Explained
"Silent" gets thrown around a lot. Here's what the numbers actually mean, and how quiet our gear really is when it matters.
What the decibel numbers mean
Generator noise is measured in decibels, usually at 7 metres. For reference, a normal conversation is around 60 dB and a quiet office about 50 dB. Our Honda inverters sit near 48 to 57 dB depending on load, which is why you can stand next to one and still chat.
Why inverters are so quiet
An inverter generator adjusts engine speed to the load instead of running flat out. Less load means less revs, less noise and less fuel. On a small stall drawing light power, they barely murmur.
Where quiet really counts
- Film and TV: the generator cannot end up on the sound recording. Quiet units plus smart placement keep it off the mic. See film hire.
- Weddings: nobody wants a motor droning through the vows. See wedding power.
- Markets: quiet keeps stallholders and customers happy in tight spaces.
Distance helps too
Every time you double the distance, the noise drops noticeably. A quiet unit placed a sensible distance away is barely there. We help you position it right on delivery.
FAQs
How many decibels is a quiet generator?
Our Honda inverters run around 48 to 57 dB at 7 metres, quieter than a normal conversation. Larger diesels are canopied to stay low for their size.
Will a generator ruin my film shoot audio?
Not with the right unit and placement. Quiet inverter power plus distance and positioning keeps the generator off the recording. We do this for film crews regularly.
Need power sorted?
Tell us the job, we'll recommend the right unit and get you a price fast.