Where Should You Put a Generator During Bad Weather?

The best place to put a generator during bad weather is outside, on high ground, under a ventilated waterproof cover, and at least 20 feet away from your home. You want to keep it safe from rain, flooding, and wind—but also avoid suffocating it or poisoning yourself in the process.

Let’s break down exactly where (and where not) to place your generator when the weather’s looking nasty.

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🧱 Generator Placement Rules in Bad Weather

✅ Do:

• Put it outside, never in a garage or enclosed porch
• Keep it elevated—on bricks, a pallet, or level patio pavers
• Use a ventilated cover or enclosure (like this GenTent canopy) found on Amazon
• Set it up downwind from your home to redirect carbon monoxide
• Make sure outlets face away from direct rain and runoff

Want to build a better setup? Try this: How to Build a DIY Generator Enclosure

❌ Don’t:

• Place it in a garage, shed, or covered carport
• Sit it directly on soil, gravel, or mud (moisture will creep in)
• Tuck it under an open window or vent
• Leave it uncovered, especially with water pooling nearby

Related safety read: Can You Use a Generator in a Garage With the Door Open?

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🌧️ Specific Weather Scenarios

🌀 During Storms or Hurricanes:

• Anchor the generator with bungee cords or stakes
• Keep it away from trees, fences, or debris that could fall
• Avoid using it during peak wind events unless absolutely necessary

For storm-use tips, see: Can You Use a Generator in a Storm or Hurricane?

🌨️ During Snow or Freezing Weather:

• Clear snow regularly from the intake/exhaust vents
• Use a cold-weather tent cover to avoid snow drifts and freezing connectors
• Elevate off ice or slush

🌧️ During Heavy Rain:

• Face the outlets away from rain direction
• Check the cover or canopy regularly for pooling water
• Never let water accumulate near the base

If yours gets wet anyway, here’s what to do: What Happens If a Generator Gets Wet?

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🛠️ Bonus Tips for Long-Term Use

• Add rubber feet or vibration pads to keep it stable on slick surfaces
• Paint directional arrows on your patio or driveway to guide safe placement each time
• Store fuel and cords up off the ground—dry fuel = safe fuel

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Final Thoughts

Bad weather is when you need your generator most—so don’t set yourself up for failure. If you pick the wrong spot, you could end up with a fried machine, an electrical hazard, or worse.

Stick to elevated, open-air locations with a rain-safe cover and plenty of space for exhaust to escape. If in doubt, back up and ask: Would I feel good standing here in a thunderstorm with wet hands and a metal wrench?

If the answer is no, you probably need to move your generator.

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Also See:

• How to Run a Generator in the Rain (And Not Ruin It)
• Best Covers and Enclosures for Running a Generator in the Rain