What Material Is the Home Standby Enclosure Made Out Of?

Generac home standby generator enclosures: since 2016, all Guardian and Next Generation Series models use durable, rustproof aluminum—ideal for coastal or high-humidity areas. Steel enclosures were discontinued except on the 7.5kW PowerPact (1-year rust warranty). Customers may search “rustproof generator,” “aluminum vs steel enclosure,” “coastal corrosion,” or “Guardian aluminum housing.”

  • Dec 8, 2025
  • Knowledge

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What Material Is the Home Standby Enclosure Made Out Of?
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What-Material-Is-the-Home-Standby-Enclosure-Made-Out-Of

Public Answer

Home standby generator enclosures

Generac previously offered both steel and aluminum enclosures. In 2016, the steel option was discontinued, and all Guardian Series and Next Generation Series generators now feature aluminum enclosures—eliminating concerns about rust and corrosion in coastal or high-humidity environments. 

Next Generation Series aluminum enclosures


  • Constructed with upgraded aluminum for enhanced strength and durability
  • Improved sound attenuation and airflow design
  • Advanced corrosion resistance suitable for coastal environments
  • Standard on all Next Generation Series home standby generators

Aluminum enclosures


aluminum-enclosure

  • Naturally rust and corrosion-resistant
  • Highly recommended for salt air or high humidity conditions
  • Standard on all Guardian Series generators (2016 and later)
  • Not available for the 7.5kW PowerPact

Additional 2016 upgrades to Guardian Series enclosures

  • The external breaker box was removed: The external box that housed the generator’s main line circuit breaker (MLCB) and a GFCI outlet was removed. The GFCI outlet is only featured on pre-October 2016 15–22 kW units.
  • Generator main line circuit breaker (MLCB) moved inside the enclosure: What is the generator main line circuit breaker? (MLCB)
  • Added a removable end panel: How Do I Remove the Generator Side Panel?
    • Improved access to all electrical connections
    • Improved access to fuel pressure test port
    • Improved access to battery tray 
  • The LED indicators remained the same
  • A lock cover was added to protect against corrosion

Galvanneal steel enclosures (Pre 2016)


steel-enclosure

  • RhinoCoat™ powder coat paint that bonds with zinc
  • Not recommended for coastal areas
  • 1-year rust warranty
  • Discontinued on all units made after 2016 (except for the 7.5kW PowerPact)
  • Standard on the 7.5kW PowerPact only

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