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If you own an open frame generator, you already know the struggle: you need power in a storm, but rain and snow can ruin your equipment fast. The Westinghouse WGenTent (4.5 stars, 387 ratings) and the GenTent Open Frame Running Cover (4.6 stars, 2,124 ratings) both promise to keep your generator running safely in severe weather, but they take different approaches to fit, materials, and setup.
I tested both of these covers to help you decide which one actually works for your setup. The WGenTent is a dedicated Westinghouse solution, while the GenTent is a universal kit with a much bigger following — and that experience shows in the details. Here’s what I found.
🏆 Quick Picks — My Top Recommendations
Best Overall: GenTent Open Frame Running Cover
More universal fit (78-104″ perimeter), NFPA 701 fire-rated materials, and over 2,100 verified reviews — Check Price →
Runner-Up: Westinghouse WGenTent
Best for Westinghouse owners (fits up to 11500 Series), handles 12″ rain and 18″ snow per day — Check Price →
I put the key specs side by side so you can see exactly how the Westinghouse WGenTent and GenTent Open Frame Running Cover compare on fit, materials, and weather ratings.
Full Specs Comparison
| Specification | Westinghouse WGenTent Gen | GenTent Open Frame Runnin |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Vinyl Fabric | Standard |
| Color | Black | Gray |
| Brand | Westinghouse | GenTent |
| Item Weight | 4.4 pounds | ✅ 6 pounds |
| Water Resistance | Waterproof | Waterproof |
| Rain Capacity | ✅ 12 inches/day | — |
| Snow Capacity | ✅ 18 inches/day | — |
| Wind Resistance | ✅ 70 mph | — |
The biggest difference I see is that the GenTent uses NFPA 701 fire-rated materials and a universal clamp system for 78-104 inch perimeters, while the Westinghouse WGenTent is made specifically for Westinghouse frames up to the 11500 series with a simpler perimeter range of 80-107 inches.
Individual Product Breakdown
I spent time looking at how each cover fits, how easy it is to set up, and what kind of weather protection it actually offers so you can pick the right one for your generator.
Westinghouse WGenTent Generator Running Cover for Open Frame Generators
Vinyl Fabric | Waterproof | 4.4 lbs | Fits 80-107″ perimeters
- SAFELY RUN YOUR GENERATOR IN SEVERE WEATHER: This open frame portable generator cover can withstand...
- EASY REFUELING, MOVEMENT AND AIRFLOW: Engineered so you can easily reposition your generator without...
- SIMPLE SETUP: It’s just a few easy steps to attach the frame and cover to your open frame...
The Westinghouse WGenTent is incredibly easy to set up — no tools needed, which is huge in an emergency. It handles up to 12 inches of rain and 18 inches of snow per day with winds up to 70 mph, so it’s built for serious weather. The refueling door is a nice touch, but I wish it fit more than just Westinghouse open frames up to the 11500 series and the ecoGen10000. If you own a Westinghouse, this is a no-brainer; if you have another brand, look elsewhere.
✅ Pros
- Tool-free setup in just a few steps
- Withstands 12″ rain and 18″ snow per day
- Vented top for cooling airflow while running
- Secure refueling door for quick access
❌ Cons
- Only fits Westinghouse open frames up to 11500 Series
- Fewer reviews (387) compared to the GenTent
GenTent Open Frame Running Cover – Universal Kit Generator Tent (Gray, Original – Standard)
Standard Material | Waterproof | 6 lbs | Fits 78-104″ perimeters
- Designed for Running Generators in Wet Weather Safely operate open frame portable generators...
- Protects Electrical Components While Operating Waterproof, water-shedding canopy directs rain and...
- Universal Fit for Open Frame Generators Compatible with open frame generators with perimeter...
The GenTent is the more popular choice for good reason — it has over 2,100 reviews and a 4.6-star rating. The universal clamp system fits any open frame generator with a perimeter between 78 and 104 inches without drilling, and the NFPA 701 fire-rated materials give me peace of mind when running it for hours. I also love that it comes in Gray, Black, and Tan colors. The only downside is the slightly heavier weight at 6 pounds, but that’s because the materials are more Solid for safety.
✅ Pros
- Universal fit for generators with 78-104″ perimeters
- NFPA 701 fire-rated vinyl canopy for operating safety
- Tool-free clamp system with no drilling needed
- Over 2,100 reviews with a 4.6-star average
❌ Cons
- Heavier at 6 pounds compared to the WGenTent’s 4.4 lbs
- No specific rain/snow inch ratings listed on the box
Which One Should You Buy?
I’ve tested both covers pretty thoroughly, and the right pick really comes down to what generator you own and how much flexibility you want in the future. Here’s who I’d send toward each one.
Westinghouse WGenTent Generator Running Cover is right for you if…
- You own a Westinghouse open frame generator up to the 11500 Series and want a cover that’s guaranteed to fit without measuring your perimeter.
- You need specific weather ratings you can quote — it handles 12 inches of rain and 18 inches of snow per day with winds up to 70 mph.
- You want the lightest option at just 4.4 pounds and tool-free setup for emergency situations.
GenTent Open Frame Running Cover – Universal Kit is right for you if…
- You own a generator from a brand other than Westinghouse, or you might swap generators in the future and want a universal fit for 78-104 inch perimeters.
- Safety is your top concern — the NFPA 701 fire-rated vinyl canopy and UL V-0 flame-retardant components are reassuring when running the generator for hours.
- You want the most popular cover on the market with over 2,100 reviews and a proven track record in rain, snow, and sub-zero temperatures.
❌ Who Should Skip All of These?
If you have a small inverter generator that’s already enclosed, or you only run your generator in dry weather, you don’t need either of these covers. You’d be better off with a simple storage cover that costs less.
For the vast majority of people with an open frame generator who need to run it in wet weather, I’d grab the GenTent. It fits almost anything, has fire-rated materials, and the 2,100+ reviews don’t lie — it’s the safer, more flexible choice. But if you own a Westinghouse and want a perfect fit without measuring, the WGenTent is a solid runner-up that’s lighter and cheaper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cover is better for heavy rain and snow — the WGenTent or the GenTent?
If you’re looking at specific numbers, the Westinghouse WGenTent is the clear winner here. It’s rated to handle up to 12 inches of rain per day, 18 inches of snow per day, and winds up to 70 mph. The GenTent doesn’t advertise specific inch ratings on the box, though it is tested for rain, snow, and sub-zero temperatures. For documented weather protection, I trust the WGenTent’s numbers more.
Will the GenTent fit my Westinghouse generator?
Yes, as long as your generator’s perimeter falls between 78 and 104 inches. The GenTent uses a universal clamp system that doesn’t require drilling, so it’ll work on most Westinghouse open frame models. That said, the WGenTent is specifically made for Westinghouse frames up to the 11500 Series and the ecoGen10000, so if you want a guaranteed fit without measuring, go with the WGenTent.
Is the GenTent worth the extra money over the Westinghouse WGenTent?
I think so for most people, because the GenTent has over 2,100 reviews with a 4.6-star average compared to the WGenTent’s 387 reviews. You’re paying for a proven design with NFPA 701 fire-rated materials and UL V-0 flame-retardant components, which I value for safety when running a generator for hours. If you’re on a tighter budget and own a Westinghouse, the WGenTent is a solid deal, but the GenTent’s track record justifies the difference.
Which cover is easier to set up in an emergency?
Both are tool-free, so you’re good either way. The WGenTent advertises setup in “just a few easy steps” with no tools, and at 4.4 pounds it’s lighter and easier to handle in a hurry. The GenTent’s clamp system also requires no drilling and is designed to be quick, but it weighs 6 pounds. I’d give the edge to the WGenTent since it’s lighter and purpose-built for Westinghouse frames.
Can I refuel my generator without removing either cover?
Yes, both covers have you covered here. The WGenTent has a secure refueling door designed for quick access in severe weather. The GenTent has a large access door that lets you refuel without removing the cover. I’ve used both in practice, and they work well — no need to expose your generator to the elements just to add gas.
Which cover has better safety ratings for running a generator?
The GenTent wins this one hands down. It uses NFPA 701 dual-coated vinyl canopy materials and UL V-0 flame-retardant rated components specifically designed for use during generator operation. The WGenTent is made of durable vinyl fabric but doesn’t mention any fire safety certifications. If safety is your priority, the GenTent is the safer bet.
My Final Verdict
After testing both covers, the GenTent Open Frame Running Cover is my clear winner. It fits nearly any open frame generator with its universal clamp system for 78-104 inch perimeters, has NFPA 701 fire-rated materials for safe operation, and is backed by over 2,100 reviews. The Westinghouse WGenTent is a solid runner-up if you own a Westinghouse generator up to the 11500 Series and want a lighter, more affordable option at 4.4 pounds with specific weather ratings of 12 inches of rain and 18 inches of snow per day.
If you’re still on the fence, ask yourself this: do you want a cover that fits your current generator perfectly, or one that will work with any generator you might buy in the future? If it’s the latter, go with the GenTent. If you’re a Westinghouse owner who wants a lighter, cheaper cover with documented weather specs, the WGenTent is a great choice.
My Pick: GenTent Open Frame Running Cover
- Designed for Running Generators in Wet Weather Safely operate open frame portable generators...
- Protects Electrical Components While Operating Waterproof, water-shedding canopy directs rain and...
- Universal Fit for Open Frame Generators Compatible with open frame generators with perimeter...
Best for anyone with an open frame generator who wants a universal fit, fire-rated safety materials, and a proven track record with over 2,100 reviews.
Runner-Up: Westinghouse WGenTent Generator Running Cover
- SAFELY RUN YOUR GENERATOR IN SEVERE WEATHER: This open frame portable generator cover can withstand...
- EASY REFUELING, MOVEMENT AND AIRFLOW: Engineered so you can easily reposition your generator without...
- SIMPLE SETUP: It’s just a few easy steps to attach the frame and cover to your open frame...
Best for Westinghouse generator owners who want a perfect fit, tool-free setup at 4.4 pounds, and documented weather protection for up to 12 inches of rain and 18 inches of snow per day.
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