Last Updated on July 6, 2023 by Rod Olivares
Picture this: you’re out in the field and suddenly need a power source to run your equipment. That’s where the champion of your mobile detailing arsenal comes into play—the generator. But not just any generator will do this difficult job. It is best to have a companion that blends enough power and portability into a single, high-performance package.
The best generator for mobile detailing relies on several factors, including the amount of portable power needed, mobility, and dependability. It should be able to provide at least 2000–3000 watts of electricity, enough power for any power tools you would need when detailing. The Honda EU2200i Portable Inverter Generator is one generator highly suggested for mobile detailing.
This article will explore some of the top mobile detailing generators on the market, considering factors like portability, noise level, cost, and effectiveness. Continue reading to learn more.
Top 5 Generators Best Recommended For Mobile Detailing
These are the best generators highly recommended for mobile detailing.
1. Honda EU2200i 2200 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
Unsurprisingly, the Honda brand is one of the most well-liked portable generators for mobile detailing.
Among the many different types of Honda generator for mobile detailing, the Honda EU2200i has the most exceptional quality. It is, without a doubt, the first on the list. It is ideal for why you would need a generator for mobile detailing with mobility and a peak power of 2200W.
It is popular in the detailing industry because of its small, portable form factor and inverter technology. The generator is as quiet as a whisper. It might be a bit of an exaggeration to call it “whisper quiet,” but at 57 dB at full load, it is far quieter than other generators in the market.
The package of the Honda EU2200i includes an Eco-Throttle system. It can specifically operate for up to 8.1 hours on a full tank of gasoline, which has a 0.95-gallon capacity. The average fuel usage is 0.12 GPH.
Regarding engine power, the GXR120, Honda’s top engine, powers the EU2200i. Because it is a commercial engine, it can operate smoothly, quietly, and effectively. Although the engine is modest compared to other engines, the GXR120 is unequaled at 121cc. It consistently ensures that the EU2200i can handle high power.
The Honda EU2200i, which weighs less than 50 pounds and has a continuous power rating of 1800 watts and a peak power rating of 2200 watts, can run even the most power-hungry auto detailing equipment. It can produce up to 4400 watts when coupled with the Honda EU2000ic Companion Generator, doubling its output.
The Honda EU2200i’s Co-Minder, a built-in carbon monoxide monitoring device, is one of its better features. The generator will automatically shut down if CO gas concentrations rise to unsafe levels in a contained location, lowering the risk of CO poisoning. When low oil is detected, the engine switches down to safeguard the internal parts.
Pros:
Fuel efficient (more than 8 hours one gallon of fuel)
Transportable and lightweight (less than 50 pounds in weight)
Inverter system ideal for powering multiple devices and delicate equipment
Eco-Throttle technology
One of the quietest portable generators available
A sophisticated carbon monoxide detecting device to keep you safe from CO poisoning
Cons:
A bit more expensive than other rivals
Oil changes are challenging
It does not include a fuel gauge or an hour meter
2. WEN 56380i Super Quiet 3800-Watt Portable Generator
Another best generator for mobile detailing is the WEN 56380i Super Quiet Generator. The WEN 56380i is a portable generator that is the ideal power source for an air compressor, electric pressure washers, power vacuums, or carpet extractors. It usually costs less than half as much as 3500-watt inverter generators like the Honda EU3000is.
The WEN 56380i has an EPA III air filtering technology that is so adaptable that it maintains the discharge hold so that you can safely operate a machine during operation.
It has a noise level decreased to a minimum of 57dB, a generator quieter than a lawn mower but holds much power.
Compared to conventional generators, this generator can finish tasks in half the time with 3800 watts of surge power and 3400 watts of rated power.
The 56380i can operate for around 8.5 hours at 50% load on a full gasoline tank, with a capacity of 2.2 gallons of fuel use of around 0.26 GPH.
It has a digital load and fuel display, two 120V outlets with three prongs, one AC 120V NEMA TT-30R RV outlet, one 12V DC outlet, two 5V USB ports, and a two-year guarantee.
Pros:
CARB and EPA III compliant
High wattage (perfect for powering many power tools)
Has fuel shut-off and electric start
Parallel connection kit
Quiet for its power (57 dBA)
More power for fewer cost
Cons:
Heavier in size (100 lbs in weight)
Low confinement in terrible weather
No remote start
3. Westinghouse Dual Fuel WGen9500DF Portable Generator
The Westinghouse WGen9500 dual-fuel generator gets the third spot for the best portable generators for mobile detailing. This generator runs on propane and starts on gasoline to extend machine usage.
This generator can run all the detailing equipment simultaneously thanks to its maximum wattage of 12,500 watts on gas and 11,200 watts on propane. This particular model includes a key fob and an electric recoil start. It can operate for up to 12 hours on one petrol tank containing 6.6 gallons.
With a remote electric start, this generator with robust dual-fuel technology is simple to start. You may connect it to an electrical system to supply backup power since it is transfer switch ready.
The 6.6-gallon fuel tank can last up to 6 hours at 12500 watts of peak power while using gasoline at 50% load. A full propane tank can operate for up to 12 hours at 50% load and provides 11200 peak and 8500 operating watts.
This generator has two 120V residential outlets, one 120V Transfer Switch Ready outlet, and one 120/240V RV Ready outlet.
For mobility and maneuverability, thankfully, the WGen9500DF dual fuel generator has foldable handles and wheels to simplify carrying it around.
The propane generators from Westinghouse are EPA and CARB-compliant, and it also comes with lifetime technical assistance and a 3-year limited guarantee.
Look at a reputable brand like Westinghouse portable generators if you have a budget and want to invest $700 or more.
Pros:
Longer runtime
Big gasoline tank
Polyurethane tires with no flats
Dual fuel technology
EPA, CSA, and CARB compliance
Westinghouse 457cc 4-Stroke OHV Engine
Has overload protection
Cons:
Relatively pricey
Quite heavy to move around
Slightly noisy (74dB noise level)
4. Champion 200951 2500-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
The inverter generator from Champion Power Equipment is among the lightest in the industry, making it the best portable generator for mobile detailing.
A 79cc OHV 4-stroke engine powers the Champion 200951. It consumes gasoline, runs on 120V, and has a peak wattage of 2500W and operating wattage of 1850W.
You may safely connect your delicate detailing equipment to the AC outlets thanks to the 200951’s generation of a pure sine wave with a THD of only 3%.
With the lowest noise rating of 53 dBA, this inverter generator is one of the quietest machines of similar power. The Honda EU2200i (the top 1) is one of the quietest devices in the same power range as this one if you’re looking for something quieter.
The 200951 can operate for up to 11.5 hours at 25% load, which is longer than the typical generator in its power range.
Additionally, since it can operate in parallel (ParaLink not included), its power may double when connected to an additional suitable device.
With simple access to all the settings you want, the EZ Start Dial from Champion enables straightforward engine starting.
The Champion 200951 and other Champion Power Equipment generators are EPA and CARB-compliant.
Pros:
Reasonably lightweight at 40 lbs.
Reasonably quiet for its power
Parallel capable
Fuel efficient
Runs on gasoline or propane
Simple to replace and refill oil
Cons:
No electric start
Needs time to break in
At first, there is a bit of a learning curve with propane generators
5. DuroMax XP10000E Gas-Powered Portable Generator
The DuroMax XP10000E, powered by a 439cc OHV DuroMax engine, is serious business.
The 439 cc (18 hp) DuroMax OHV 4-stroke engine, powered by gasoline, is the heart of the DuroMax XP10000E. It can power most, if not all, of the equipment you need on your mobile car detailing while operating at 8000 watts and peaking at 10000 watts.
With its high-volt receptacle, the DuroMax can power up all your power detailing equipment. It can swiftly power up your high-amp electric pressure washer, vacuum cleaners, and car detailing tools. With a fuel capacity of 8.3 gallons, it can operate for up to 10 hours, so it will undoubtedly be by your side the whole shift.
You may use both 120 and 240 volts concurrently with the DuroMax XP10000E. There are two 120V 20A outlets, one 120/240V 50A heavy-duty outlet, two 120/240V 30A twist locks, and one 120 30A twist lock, totaling five outlets. Here are some other 240 volt generators you might want to consider for your mobile detailing business.
DuroMax XP10000E is big and hefty, like most devices above 3000 watts. When constructed, it has an approximate weight of 220 pounds and dimensions of 26 x 30 x 29 inches (H x L x W). To make traveling more straightforward, it has wheels.
The generator has a conventional pull-start mechanism and a convenient electric starter. It has a noise rating of 72 dBA (slightly noisier than a vacuum cleaner).
The XP10000E can run for up to 22 hours on a full petrol tank thanks to its 8.3-gallon fuel capacity (fuel usage is around 0.38 GPH).
This DuroMax unit is considered RV-ready. With an L5-30P to TT-30R converter, you can utilize the L5-30R receptacle for a direct RV connection.
Additionally, the XP10000E is transfer switch ready since it has a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle; you can quickly connect it to your breaker box to power your equipment conveniently.
Pros.
Carries hefty loads with ease
Generator operates concurrently on 120 and 240-volt
Wide variety of outlets (GFCI)
Inexpensive
Many accessories included
Electric start
High run time
Cons:
Slightly hefty and a little challenging to hook up
No remote start
Things To Consider When Choosing The Best Generator For Mobile Detailing
When purchasing a good generator, there are a few things to consider. Powerful generators can seem like an excellent idea, but moving them around is difficult because of their size and heft.
Portability
Make sure all your options are portable and light when choosing the best generator for mobile detailing. You will need portable generators since you will be traveling to your client’s site and don’t want it to take up too much space.
Size and Mobility
A small, compact generator connects vacuums and an electric pressure washer conveniently. Still, if you have a team of two to three people working simultaneously inside and outside, you may need a bigger wattage inverter generator.
Instead of purchasing one large generator, you can purchase two small, lightweight generators that may be linked simultaneously.
Efficiency
The fuel tank size you utilize may also be something to think about since it will impact how well your generator works. Compared to propane generators, it is more probable that you will rapidly run out of fuel if you use natural gas-powered generators. The average inverter generator is relatively modest and can only operate for four to five hours.
Larger, more powerful versions feature larger fuel tanks, allowing them to operate for up to 10 hours. Because of its microprocessor technology, inverters are superior since they automatically modify engine speed as required. Inverter generators recognize power requirements and prevent fuel waste by using fuel effectively which makes them excellent generators for mobile detailing.
Noise Level
Extremely loud generators are capable of producing sounds between 60 and 80 dB. The last thing you want to do while cleaning a client’s automobile is to create a nuisance around the neighborhood. Choose the best generators with minimum noise output.
Propane-powered generators will be far more environmentally friendly and quieter than a gas-powered generator. Since inverter-based generators are more effective than conventional generators, they last longer and make less noise.
Features like sound-dampening or pulse technology may also decrease your generator’s noise level.
Fuel Type
Gasoline, diesel, propane, and natural gas are the four fuels used to power generators for mobile detailing.
Gasoline
The fact that gasoline is a standard fuel for portable generators makes it a practical and accessible choice. However, it’s crucial to adhere to the specifications and advice the manufacturer provides about the kind and quality of gasoline.
Gasoline is the simplest to access but highly flammable and dangerous to store in large quantities. It is a lousy option for long-term use since it is also rather pricey.
Diesel
Compared to gasoline generators, diesel generators are far more dependable and need much less maintenance. It is less explosive than other fuels, making it a typically safe choice.
A diesel generator is generally more robust and costlier than its gas-powered counterparts. Similar to ozone generators, diesel generators are not commonly accessible in the market, making it challenging to find one. Few inverters utilize diesel fuel, which is often noisy.
Propane
The most eco-friendly fuel is liquid propane, often known as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). It burns cleanly, is maintainable in various-sized cylinders for convenient storage, and you can preserve it for long periods. It offers 91,300 BTUs per gallon instead of 125,000 BTUs and 138,700 BTUs for gas and diesel, respectively, but quickly burns more power.
But the cost of propane might be high. Compared to others, you could find it more challenging to purchase and it needs a separate, linked tank.
Natural Gas
Natural gas’s primary advantage is that it makes a very low noise generator fuel. However, this fuel type comes at a price since natural gas is more expensive and more challenging than alternatives like gasoline, diesel, or propane.
Natural gas might be a great fuel option if cost is not your primary concern and, you know, accessible refueling locations.
Additional Features
The better if the generators for mobile detailing include power adapter, magnetic oil dipstick, or a connector kit for several portable power sources.
A generator with a lengthy extension cable might move the generator around more conveniently. To make it simple to transfer a generator from one location to another, look for one lightweight and with solid handles or wheels.
Choose a generator with a LED digital data center that shows data on power output, voltage output, remaining run time, fuel level, and lifespan run hours. You may manage your detailing tools like pressure washer and vacuum cleaner more effectively by using these extra features.
Types of Generators Suitable for Mobile Detailing
The two most common generator types suitable for car detailing are:
Inverter Generator
An inverter generator is the most effective generator to power all your detailing tools. They do not continuously operate at total capacity and solely generate electricity to power the plugged-in detailing tools. Due to their effectiveness and ability to adjust engine speeds, you will spend less on petrol during operation.
Inverter generators are more convenient, more compact, lighter, and quieter than most generators.
Unlike other types of generators for mobile detailing, inverter generators don’t operate at set speeds. The engine will throttle down with light loads, conserving fuel and significantly lowering noise pollution.
But there are drawbacks to inverter generators as well. They cost far over $800, making them significantly more pricey. They also have lesser watt maximum power output, so you can only use them to power a few devices simultaneously. They are also far more costly to maintain and repair.
Because they come in different sizes, inverter generators are portable. They are designed to be carried with one hand and may weigh up to 60 pounds. They are more costly than most generators that are conventional, but they are unquestionably a wise investment.
Conventional or Traditional Generators
Traditional or conventional generators often provide more watts for the same investment, even if inverter generators have better output at a cheaper cost. However, they use less fuel since they operate continuous power at the same speed. They are also bigger and louder than inverter generators.
Conventional generators use electrical alternators and run on gasoline, propane, diesel, or a mixture of more than one fuel type.
Fuel-powered traditional generators are excellent choices for newcomers and large enterprises since they have a cheaper starting price and can produce up to 20,000 watts of electricity.
The majority of these generators produce 120 volts and a frequency of 60 Hz at 3600 rotations per minute, or almost twice as fast as inverter generators.
However, fuel-powered generators cannot run continuous power at 3600 rpm. These variations increase fuel use, unnecessary noise, and exhaust production.
Additionally, they are less portable than inverter generators due to their weight and difficulty in storage and transportation.
Expert Tips for Selecting the Right Generator
Finding the ideal generator that meets your unique demands may be a complex process, given the wide range of options on the market. Make an educated choice and take your detailing cars to a new level with these expert tips.
Assess your power needs.
Assess the power requirements of your mobile detailing equipment before selecting the generator to purchase. Calculate the watts needed to operate your equipment, including lights, vacuum cleaners, air compressor, electric pressure washers, and polishers. Note that most pressure washers need around 20 psi of pressure to work.
Always consider portability.
Portability is essential when choosing a generator since mobility is the core of mobile detailing. Look for a smaller generator fitted with handles or wheels for easy travel between work sites. You can quickly enter difficult-to-reach regions with a powerful portable generator.
Choose inverter technology.
Due to their clean and reliable power supply, an inverter generator is the best generator for mobile detailing. These generators provide secure power for delicate electronic equipment, avoiding harm and guaranteeing reliable operation. Inverter generators also often operate more quietly, with variable speed choices and better fuel efficiency.
Consider fuel efficiency.
When selecting a powerful generator for mobile detailing, fuel efficiency is critical. Look for excellent fuel-efficient generators to optimize uptime while reducing fuel use. In addition to saving you money on fuel expenses, this function also lessens the need for regular refilling, which boosts productivity and cuts down on downtime.
Take noise levels into account.
When operating in different situations, such as residential or commercial settings, you should consider the noise levels of a generator. Look for a good generator with noise-reduction features like insulated casing and low-noise mufflers for quiet operation. Ensure the generator adheres to local noise ordinances and causes the fewest possible disruptions.
Verify the generator’s durability.
A generator’s capacity to resist the rigors of mobile detailing depends on its dependability and durability. Research the standing and dependability of various brands and models when choosing your generator for mobile detailing. To evaluate the generator’s performance and longevity over time, read customer reviews and ask other mobile detailers for advice.
Look for safety features.
Ensure the mobile detailing generator you purchase has essential safety features like overload protection, low-oil shutdown, and grounding choices. These features safeguard your equipment, avert possible harm, and guarantee personal and operational safety.
Conclusion
Finding the ideal power solution is a crucial first step toward growing your auto detailing business. You can make an educated choice that fits the particular requirements of your mobile detailing business by taking notes of the things and recommendations we shared in this article.
Remember that purchasing a mobile detailing generator is an investment in the long-term success of your auto detailing business. Select a generator to accommodate future growth and meet your current power needs.
Take the time to consider your unique requirements, examine your alternatives, and come to a well-informed conclusion. Just remember that the appropriate generator will give your mobile detailing business the boost it needs by giving you enough power source you need to excel at what you do.
Scott Krager purchased generatorgrid.com in the summer of 2020 and quickly began to buy every generator under the sun! He currently has over a dozen generators and the number is growing quickly. He lives in Portland, OR near his family and friends.
GeneratorGrid.com is an independent review business. I am not affiliated with any manufacturers and do not accept paid reviews. When you buy through my links, I may earn a commission which helps me purchase more generators for testing. - Scott Krager