Generators are expensive pieces of equipment. They can cost thousands of dollars and take up a lot of space.
Of course, that doesn’t matter if you are using it for power outages or camping trips. However, there is a high risk of theft when generators are left outside on the street.
In this blog post, we discuss how to prevent a generator from being stolen and the steps to take to recover your stolen generator.
Why Do You Need to Protect a Generator?
A generator is a considerable investment. It can cost thousands of dollars and take up a lot of space, so protecting it is worth it even if you don’t use your generator often.
Think about how much work it took to get the money together for that generator – now think about losing it all because someone stole your entire purchase.
That being said, if you are using your generator for power outages or camping trips, it is unlikely that someone will break into your home to steal the equipment.
How to Prevent a Generator from Being Stolen
1. Invest in Alarm Systems
If you don’t want to invest in an enclosure, consider investing in an alarm system. This option will alert you if anyone is on your property and try to take the generator.
The more expensive models typically have a loud noise that can be heard from across town or even through walls – this way, you’ll know precisely when someone tries to take your valuable generator.
Even if you don’t want to purchase an alarm system, consider putting up a sign that says “Beware of Dog” since most thieves will think twice about entering private property with dogs on the premises.
Every little bit can help protect your valuable equipment.
2. Add Lighting Around the Generator
Lighting is also great for protecting your generator. Thieves will be less likely to take your equipment if they know that you can see them and call the police right away.
Consider adding floodlights or even a motion sensor light so any potential thieves will think twice about taking your valuable machine. Even just having lights around the outside of your home can make a huge difference in keeping your generator safe.
Types of home generators in electrical engineering
3. Fence The Generator In
If you want to keep your generator out of sight, but don’t have the space for a large enclosure, consider investing in a fence. A small wooden one will be almost invisible and still provide security while keeping thieves away from your valuable equipment.
To prevent someone from easily removing the fence around your generator, place it over mulch or gravel rather than planting it directly into the ground.
This way, if someone tries to move your fence or cut through it with a saw or other tool, they will make loud noises that should scare them off before anything happens.
Generator cover ideas from rain
4. Use a Proper Lock
A simple lock won’t do anything against a thief who wants to take your generator.
Consider investing in a padlock that has been rated “high security” by police or, even better, certified by leading authority locks and security experts. These locks are built with solid metals like steel, making them difficult for thieves to cut through with a saw.
Lock your generator up in the garage when it is not in use. If you aren’t using your generator, keep it inside and locked away from thieves. A simple lock around the handle will prevent anyone who may be walking or driving past from trying to take your generator.
There is no point in investing in a heavy-duty lock if you leave your generator out in the open all day long.
Petrol Generator troubleshooting and repair
5. Remove the Wheels
Many people recommend removing the wheels from your generator to prevent thieves from taking it away.
This is an excellent idea if you use your home’s electrical outlets, but not always necessary since many generators have built-in handles or casters that make them easy to roll around.
Thieves will go after the easiest targets first, which is why it is imperative to do everything you can to keep your generator safe.
How to Recover Your Stolen Generators?
If you believe your generator has been stolen, contact the police immediately. Be sure to remove any identifying stickers or even take pictures of them if they need this information later.
Remain vigilant and keep an eye out for “for sale” signs around town that seem suspicious (remember: if someone is selling a generator at half its original price, it may be because they stole it in the first place.)
Contact your insurance company and find out if you are covered for stolen goods. This way, even if someone manages to get away with your generator, there will still be a chance of getting reimbursed.
FAQs on Securing Your Generator from Theft
1. Can I Cover My Generator with a Tarp?
Many people recommend covering your generator with a tarp to prevent thieves from seeing it. This is not always the best idea, however, a thief will be able to see that something is there and could cut through the tarp. It’s better if you use an actual lock or fence instead of trying to disguise your valuable equipment in this way.
2. Is it Possible for Thieves to Steal My Generator Through the Wires?
Unfortunately, yes. Thieves are very motivated and know that generators can be resold for a large amount of money. They will take every opportunity they have, including yanking your expensive machine right out from where it is plugged in.
3. How can I Prevent My Child from Playing with the Buttons on My Generator?
Many homeowners will keep their generators near their homes where children or pets might reach them easily.
If this is the case for you, consider installing an enclosure around your generator that makes it impossible for someone to touch the buttons without a key.
This will prevent children from playing with the generator and accidentally turning it on.
4. Can I Use Bike Locks to Secure My Generator?
No. Bike locks are not strong enough to secure your generator. They may break or snap right off if someone tries to steal it. You should always aim for the best lock you can afford – these tend to be relatively inexpensive anyways.
Your generator is an expensive piece of equipment, and if left unattended, it can be easy prey for thieves.
You must do everything you can to keep your generator safe, which means keeping it locked up when not in use or, even better – purchasing a lock that is not easily cut off. Remember: the less accessible your generator is, the better for you.
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