I saw the GenTent all over the place at the National Hardware Show. It just kept popping up in various places.
It is, basically, a heavy-duty fiberglass frame and fabric cover for your portable generator. You can see it at the end of this epic video from the show.
I learned that an alarming number of people are killed every year operating generators. While many are killed by CO poisoning because they run the unit in the garage or under an open window through which cords pass, some are killed by electrocution. There aren’t hard numbers, but GenTent is certain it happens and it’s ghastly to think about. Most people (who aren’t subdivision production framers) operate their generators when it’s raining or snowing. Lights out, fridge off, rain slashing, generator hot.
They go out to plug in a new cord or refill with fuel, they’re standing in a puddle that is energized in some way and it’s zap city. Or water running down the face of the generator gets between the cord and the face of the 4-way energizing the entire unit and poof.
So, is this a Facebook post for you? “Hey, XYZ Contracting here. Did you know that portable generators are safer and easier to use with a GenTent and transfer switch? GenTent keeps the generator dry—and more importantly, safe—during bad weather. A transfer switch means you can run electricity into your breaker panel—and not cords through the window. Portable generators are the most affordable form of back-up power. If we can help, let us know.”
Note: After reading this a few times, it sounds like branded content. It’s not. There’s no business arrangement behind this. I just think it’s cool.