Carb Compliant

Carb Compliant Generator

Internal Combustion Engines, including CARB Compliant Generators, must comply with California Air Resources Board rules regarding emissions or they may not be sold or operated in California. CARB Compliant Portable Generators meet the stringent emissions standards set by the California Air Resources Board.

California has adopted strong air quality standards for vehicles and other fossil-fueled engines, including portable generators, in order to reduce pollution and meet air quality standards. The California Air Resources Board, or CARB, was established in 1967 when then Governor Ronald Reagan signed the Mullford-Carrell Act and combined the Bureau of Air Sanitation with the Motor Vehicle Pollution Control Board. The United States established the Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA, in 1970. The EPA built on the work done by the California Air Resources Board.

CARB Compliant Portable Generators

Manufacturers must certify their CARB compliant portable generators with the California Air Resources Board before selling the models in California. The state of California enforces the rules at the retailer level. Retailers selling a generator that is not CARB compliant may result in fines. The rules require that engine pollutant emissions stay below a set level.

Using CARB compliant portable generators reduces emissions and helps the state meet air quality goals. Proper maintenance done on time helps keep the generator in compliance.

As more states adopt the CARB rules, manufactures are certifying their generators to ensure compliance throughout the country. CARB compliant generators are just one of many outdoor power equipment machines that run on an internal combustion engine.

Benefits: Portable CARB Compliant Generators

According to the CARB Portable Generator Fact Sheet, CARB rules don’t limit portable generator use during Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events. California residents may use portable consumer type CARB Compliant Generators for backup power during a power outage or blackout (PSPS) when the utility shuts off power to prevent wildfires.

The board cautions homeowners to avoid using their generator near dry vegetation. A CARB approved generator produces fewer emissions than uncertified generators and may use fuel more efficiently.