Mobile detailing has become an increasingly popular option for some car owners. It allows them to get the perks of a professional detail job without having to leave the comfort of their own homes or offices.
Additionally, it also helps them save time and money that they would otherwise spend if they had chosen to bring their cars down for a full service detailing at conventional shops.
In this article, we will be looking at some of the best generators for mobile detailing on the market in this category. Doing so, it should make it easier for you to decide which best portable generator to buy.
The best generator for mobile detailing
In order not to inundate our readers with too many choices, we have selected only five bestsellers out of an extensive list that we reviewed.
The power characteristics, availability of various outlets, portability, and any additional features of the device shall be discussed, including its emission compliance information. We’re looking for something that can power up your carpet extractors and electric pressure washers.
1. Honda EU2200i
So the Honda EU2200i all sounds pretty awesome. With 2200W peak wattage, it’s great for mobile detailing and convenient enough to bring with you anywhere.
The sound is almost as quiet as a conversation, so you’ll never be disturbed by the noise coming from your generator while it’s running.
Now let me tell you about this Eco-Throttle system that comes equipped with this generator–you get more power and better fuel efficiency depending on how much load the machine has to handle which means you can run for up to 8 hours without having to refill your gas tank.
All in all, Honda generators are just made of pure awesomeness (if we do say ourselves). It is one of the most popular generators for mobile detailing and is used by professional detailers and car owners in their everyday use.
As such, we consider it to be one of the best generators for mobile detailing.
The Honda EU2200i is a great pick as it offers the best power to size ratio on our list.
Important Features:
POWER & RUN TIME:
It provides a running wattage of 1800W and a peak wattage of 2200W.
With a fuel capacity of 0.95 gallons, the EU2200i may run for up to 8.1 hours with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.12 GPH).
OUTLETS:
The control panel features the upcoming 2 AC outlets:
Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
PORTABILITY:
Dimensions of L20 x W11.4 x H16.7 in
Weight: 47.4 lbs
Pros:
✅Automatic low-oil engine shutdown
✅Inverter technology
✅Quiet
✅Fuel efficient
✅Eco-Throttle technology
✅Parallel ready
Cons:
❌Difficult to change the oil
❌A little heavy
CHECK THE PRICE OF HONDA EU2200i ON AMAZON
2. WEN 56380i
Another contender for the best generators for mobile detailing is the WEN 56380i. The WEN 56380i portable generator is ideal for use with pressure washers, vacuum cleaners, and carpet extractors.
It has an EPA III compliant air filter system to keep the emissions low enough so that you can be confident about your environment while running this machine.
The noise level from the machine minimizes 96dB which works great if you need something quieter than a lawnmower but still want serious power.
With 3800 surge watts and 3400 rated watts of useable power, heavy-duty tasks get finished in half the time that traditional standby generators rely on.
It includes two three-prong 120V receptacles, one AC 120V NEMA TT-30R RV receptacle, one 12V DC receptacle, two 5V USB ports, a digital load, and fuel display, and a two-year warranty. Truly, one of the best generators for mobile detailing.
Important Features:
POWER & RUN TIME:
It provides a running wattage of 3400W and reaches a peak wattage of 3800W.
With a fuel capacity of 2.2 gallons, the 56380i may run for around 8.5 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.26 GPH).
OUTLETS:
The control panel includes the following 3 AC outlets:
Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) 120V 30A (TT-30R) receptacle
PORTABILITY:
Dimensions of L23.2 x W18 x H20.1 in
Weight: 99.2 lbs
PROS:
✅ Great value for money
✅ RV ready
✅ Quiet
✅ High wattage
CONS:
❌No remote start
CHECK THE PRICE OF WEN 56380i ON AMAZON
3. Westinghouse iGen4500
The Westinghouse iGen4500 is a high-quality inverter generator that is perfect for your mobile detailing business. Westinghouse is a popular energy solution and appliances brand. They also produce one of the best generators for mobile detailing.
This model has many features, including remote start and push-button starting action, so you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your home for those loyal clients.
The Westinghouse iGen4500 has your back with a leisurely run time of 18 hours on one tank. Moreover, this item is engineered to be quiet; it’s about as loud as a normal conversation at 52db!
Equipped with 3700 running watts and 4500 peak watts, it can feasibly keep your whole mobile detailing business running.
It has a real-time LED display for remaining fuel, output, voltages, and runtime data. This product is easy to transport from place to place thanks to the included telescoping handle.
Important Features:
POWER & RUN TIME:
With a 120V output, it gives a running wattage of 3700W and also a peak wattage of 4500W.
With a fuel capacity of 3.4 gallons, the iGen4500 may run for up to 18 hours with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.19 GPH).
OUTLETS:
The control panel features the following 3 AC outlets:
Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) 120V 30A (TT-30R) receptacle
PORTABILITY:
Dimensions of L24.5 x W17.5 x H20.5 in
Weight: 98 lbs
PROS:
✅ Remote control start
✅ Telescopic pulling handle
✅ LED display
✅ Very quiet (52db)
CONS:
❌ Heavier than most standard inverter generator
CHECK THE PRICE OF WESTINGHOUSE iGEN4500 ON AMAZON
4. Generac 7117 Gp2200I W 50St Inverter
The Generac 7117 GP2200I delivers a peak AC output of 2200 watts for your mobile detailing needs. It has an automatic low-oil shutdown that protects your engine from damage.
You can easily be both mobiles and connected with this inverter generator. And if you’re looking for more than just 1 load, connect two generators in parallel.
The compact size means it will fit into tight spaces like camping trailers and storage buildings, plus won’t take up valuable space in the truck.
One exceptional feature is true power technology which maintains a clean stable power system perfect for sensitive electronics such as tools and appliances while excelling in its quietness and affordability.
Its affordability makes it one of the best generators for mobile detailing.
Important Features:
POWER & RUN TIME:
With an output of 120V, it provides a running wattage of 1700W and a peak wattage of 2200W.
With a fuel capacity of 1.2 gallons, it may run for up to 10.75 hours with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.11 GPH).
OUTLETS:
The control panel includes the following 2 AC outlets:
Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
PORTABILITY:
Dimensions of L19.7 x W11.4 x H17.9 in
Weight: 46.6 lbs
Pros
✅ Lightweight design
✅ Economy mode
✅ Integrated on/off button makes operation easier
✅ Parallel connection ready
Cons
❌ Overheats easily
CHECK THE PRICE OF GENERAC 7117 ON AMAZON
5. Champion Power Equipment 201052 3800-Watt
Champion Power Equipment is a brand that has been producing the best generators for mobile detailing. They are known for making sturdy, reliable products.
One of their top picks is the Champion Power Equipment 201052 3800-Watt Dual Fuel Generator with Electric Start.
Featuring an Intelligauge meter, Volt Guard, and Cold Start Technology, this generator will provide you with potent power for up to 14 hours on gasoline or 10.5 hours on propane gas.
This system provides some of the smoothest and most uninterrupted power available in small generators today.
It has an Intelligauge meter, which displays voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours to aid you with the monitoring of its status and activity.
The Volt GuardTM built-in surge protector (Champion includes a built-in surge suppressor) protects your electronics and appliances from voltage surges.
Important Features:
POWER & RUN TIME:
Running wattage of 3800W along with a peak wattage of 4750W.
The running time of the 201052, with its 4.5 gallons fuel capacity, can reach around 14 hours at 50% load on a full tank of gasoline (fuel consumption around 0.32 GPH).
With propane, it can reach around 10.5 hours (on a 20 lbs tank – propane consumption is around 0.45 GPH).
OUTLETS:
The control panel features the upcoming 4 AC outlets:
Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) 120V 30A (L5-30R) receptacle 120V 30A (TT-30R) receptacle
PORTABILITY:
Dimensions of L24.7 x W25 x H22.2 in,
Weight: 123 lbs
PROS:
✅ Dual-fuel technology
✅ Intelligence meter
✅ Built-in surge protector (Volt Guard™)
CONS:
❌ On the heavier side
CHECK THE PRICE OF CHAMPION POWER EQUIPMENT ON AMAZON
What to look for in a generator
The most powerful generator may appear to be a good choice, but it will grow and bulk as you move it about. Before purchasing the best generators for mobile detailing, here are the top factors to consider:
- Size and Weight
- Efficiency
- Noise level
1. Size and Weight
One of the most important things to consider when purchasing a generator for mobile detailing is that it is lightweight.
A generator with wheels will make transportation easier and lessen fatigue.
It’s also a good idea to look for products that have handles or cases so you can lug them around by hand without much strain.
2. Efficiency
As mentioned before, a high wattage does not always equate to the best generator.
It’s important to look into how efficient the product is because this value will determine how long your generators run on one tank of gas or propane.
The better the efficiency rating, the longer your unit can run without needing fuel – very convenient if you are distant from fueling locations while working in rural areas!
3. Noise Level
Standard generators tend to be extremely loud, ranging from 60 to 80 decibels.
When working on clients’ vehicles, the last thing you want is to drown out their conversation and make them feel isolated.
Noise level is important when purchasing a generator because it can be both disruptive and irritating – not exactly the best feelings you want your clients to experience while detailing their car!
A propane-powered unit will be quieter than a gas-powered one, as well as be more eco-friendly. The same goes for inverter generators which are much more efficient than standard units so they run longer with less noise output.
Other features like sound dampening technology or pulse technology also make quite a difference in reducing the noise level of your generator so consider these options if convenience is key when moving about your workspace.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these best generators for mobile detailing make an excellent companion for detailing equipment thanks to their compact size, lightweight design, and low noise level.
It will save you a lot of time, effort, and gas when on the road so consider investing in this life-saving tool!
Thanks to its all-inclusive features, it also eliminates the need for purchasing a separate inverter or other systems which can add up the costs while lessening functionality.
A propane-powered unit is a great choice because not only does it reduce noise levels but it’s also eco-friendly when compared to gas generators.
If you’re looking for a product that has everything built into one package without breaking your wallet, look no further than these top generators suited for mobile car valeting!
Thank you for reading and we hope you enjoyed our article! Please feel free to leave us a comment in the section below.
