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What is the decibel level of a portable generator?

Briggs & Stratton Admin : Updated on January 13, 2026

Portable Generators

We measure sound levels of our PowerSmart Series™ inverter generators and our QuietPower™ Series inverter generator running at ¼ load at 7 meters from the control panel side. At that load and distance:

Our P2200 is 59 dB(A)*
Our P3000 is 58 dB(A)*
Our Q6500 is 66 dB(A)*

Compared to traditional camping generators, these inverter generators are quieter and offer a more consistent smooth power output making them safe for sensitive electronics. In addition, our PowerSmart Series inverters have PowerSmart mode, which automatically adjusts engine speed to save fuel, run longer, and help keep sound levels as low as possible.

Sound levels can vary based on proximity and location. For informational purposes only, the chart below shows estimated average decibel values of some other common sound sources:

Sound Source**	dB(A) Estimate†
Refrigerator	50
Air Conditioner	50-75
Dishwasher	55-70
Vacuum Cleaner	60-85
TV Audio	70
Flush Toilet	75-85
Doorbell, Ringing Telephone	80
Heavy Traffic, Noisy Restaurant	85
Crying Baby, Leaf Blower	110
Jet Plane (at ramp)	120

^{* Sound levels may vary based on proximity and location; measured at ¼ load at 7 meters from control panel side.

** Measurement information, i.e. proximity and location to source, is not noted at source and may not be equal to 7 meters.

† "Common Environmental Noise Levels." Center for Hearing and Communication. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Jan. 2015.

http://chchearing.org/noise/common-environmental-noise-levels}