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Can You Run a Generator in the Rain? How to Do It Safely
Do not run a portable generator uncovered in the rain. OSHA says to keep a generator dry and not use it in rain or wet conditions, and to protect it with a canopy if needed. DuroMax's manuals say the same: "Do not use uncovered in rainy or wet conditions." The safe options are an open, canopy-style cover that keeps rain off while leaving plenty of airflow, a generator tent made for running generators, or waiting until the rain stops. Never move the generator into a garage or onto a porch to get it out of the rain.
Why rain and generators do not mix
- Shock risk. Ready.gov warns that touching a wet generator, or devices connected to one, can cause electrical shock.
- Carbon monoxide risk. The real danger of bad weather is moving the generator somewhere enclosed. Running it in a garage, carport, or on a porch can build up deadly CO. Keep it at least 20 feet from the house: see How Far Should a Generator Be From the House?
What the safety agencies and DuroMax say
| Source | Guidance |
|---|---|
| OSHA | Keep it dry; do not use it in rain or wet conditions. If needed, protect it with a canopy. Never handle its electrical parts if you are wet or standing in water. |
| Ready.gov | Keep the generator dry and protected from rain or flooding. |
| CPSC (2026) | Follow the manufacturer's instructions, which may include an NFPA-rated noncombustible generator tent, or may advise waiting until rain or snow passes. |
| American Red Cross | Run it on a dry surface under an open canopy-like structure, such as a tarp held up on poles. Do not touch it with wet hands. |
| DuroMax manuals and FAQ | Do not use uncovered in rainy or wet conditions. DuroMax does not recommend running in a downpour or snowstorm without overhead protection. |
How to run a generator safely in wet weather
- Set up before the storm on a dry, level spot at least 20 feet from the house.
- Add overhead protection that stays open on the sides, like a tarp on poles or a generator tent built for running units. OSHA calls for 3 to 4 feet of clear space on all sides and above for ventilation.
- Use GFCI protection. OSHA recommends ground fault circuit interrupters around wet or damp areas. The DuroMax XP5500HX has GFCI outlets.
- Use outdoor-rated cords and keep the plug connections off the ground and out of puddles.
- Dry hands, dry footing. Do not touch the generator or cords if you are wet or standing in water.
- Let it cool before refueling, and keep fuel covered and dry.
Can I use a generator cover while it runs?
Not a storage cover. DuroMax calls its XPLGC a "Dust Guard Cover," and its manuals warn never to place any type of storage cover on the generator while it is still hot. Use these covers after the unit has cooled, to keep rain and dust off it in storage:
- DuroMax XPLGC large weather resistant generator cover: for storage. $39.99
- DuroMax XPSGC small weather resistant generator cover: for storage. $29.99
For running in rain, use an open canopy or a generator tent designed for operation. The DuroMax FAQ names GenTent as an example of overhead protection, and the CPSC mentions NFPA-rated noncombustible generator tents.
What if the generator got wet or flooded?
OSHA says not to use electrical equipment that has been submerged in water until it is thoroughly dried out and properly evaluated. If floodwater reached the generator, have it checked before you start it.
Backup power that can stay indoors
A battery power station has no engine and no exhaust, so you can keep it inside and out of the weather. It will not run a whole house for days, but it can keep a refrigerator, lights, Wi-Fi, and phones going:
- Jackery Explorer 1000 v2: 1,070 Wh, 1,500 W. From $559
- Jackery HomePower 3000: 3,072 Wh, 3,600 W. From $1,499
Browse portable generators and portable power stations.
Questions about storm prep? Call 1-888-855-7286. We can help you choose a generator, cords, and a setup that works in bad weather.
Generator in the rain FAQ
Can you run a generator in the rain? Not uncovered. OSHA and DuroMax say to keep it dry, using an open canopy or generator tent, or to wait until the rain passes.
Can I put my generator in the garage when it rains? No. That risks deadly carbon monoxide even with the door open.
Can I run a generator under a tarp? The Red Cross suggests an open canopy-like structure, such as a tarp held up on poles, with open sides for airflow.
Can I cover a generator while it is running? Not with a storage cover. DuroMax says never to put a storage cover on a hot generator.
Can a generator run in the snow? The same rules apply. DuroMax does not recommend running in a snowstorm without overhead protection, and the CPSC says to follow the manufacturer's instructions.