Introduction
As a home and business owner, I know how important it is to have a reliable source of power during emergencies or power outages. That’s why I decided to invest in a generator for my property. For those who are unfamiliar, generators are machines that produce electricity for a variety of applications. They can either be portable or stationary and can be powered by gasoline, diesel, or natural gas. In this blog post, I will be comparing two of the most popular brands in the market, Briggs and Generac.
A. Definition of Generators
A generator is a machine that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. It is commonly used as a backup power source when the main power supply fails, as well as for powering equipment in remote locations where access to a main power grid is not available.
B. Importance of Generators
Generators are essential machines for both homes and businesses. They provide a reliable source of power during emergencies or power outages, ensuring that your essential appliances and equipment stay operational. For businesses, generators can be the difference between continued operations and lost revenue during power cuts.
C. Overview of Briggs and Generac
Briggs and Generac are two of the biggest names in the generator market. Both brands offer a range of generators with different power outputs, fuel types, and features. Briggs has been in the industry for over 100 years, while Generac has been around for over 60 years.
II. Briggs vs. Generac
A. Brief history and background of Briggs and Generac
Briggs and Generac both have a long history of producing reliable generators. Briggs has been in business since 1908, and their generators are known for their durability and long lifespan. Generac was founded in 1959 and started by producing portable generators. Over time, they expanded their product line to include standby generators for homes and businesses.
B. Comparison of the two brands
1. Design and features
Both Briggs and Generac generators come in various designs and features. Briggs offers a wide range of portable and standby generators with various capacities, while Generac produces mainly standby generators. Briggs and Stratton generators are built to be portable and lightweight, making them easy to store and transport. Generac generators come with a wide range of advanced features, such as Wi-Fi connectivity and remote monitoring.
2. Power output
Briggs and Generac offer generators with different power outputs to suit different needs. Briggs and Stratton generators range from 1200 to 10000 watts, while Generac generators range from 7.5KW to 150KW.
3. Noise level
Briggs and Generac both produce generators that are efficient and relatively quiet when in operation. Briggs and Stratton generators produce less noise compared to other brands in the market, with average noise levels ranging from 50 to 70 decibels. Similarly, Generac generators are known for their quieter operation, with noise levels ranging from 55 to 65 decibels.
4. Fuel efficiency
Both Briggs and Generac generators are known for their fuel efficiency. Briggs and Stratton generators have innovative technologies such as the “PowerSmart” system, which optimizes fuel consumption based on the load. Generac generators also come with features such as the “Eco-mode”, which reduce the amount of fuel used by the generator when the load is lighter.
5. Ease of use and maintenance
Both Briggs and Generac generators are designed to be easy to use and maintain. The generators come with user manuals with clear step-by-step instructions on how to operate and maintain the machines. Additionally, both brands offer spare parts and professional maintenance services to ensure that the generators remain in optimal condition.
C. Pros and cons of each brand
1. Briggs
Pros:
- Durable and long-lasting
- Fuel efficient
- Lightweight and portable
Cons:
- Limited range of features compared to other brands
- Some models may be louder than other brands in the market
2. Generac
Pros:
- Wide range of advanced features
- Quieter operation
- Wide range of power output options
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other brands
- May require more frequent maintenance
III. Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Generator
A. Purpose
It’s essential to determine the reason for purchasing a generator before making a purchase. Different generators are designed for various purposes, including home, commercial use, or industrial use.
B. Budget
Generators come in various price points, and it’s essential to consider your budget when selecting a generator. While cheaper options may seem tempting, it’s important to invest in a generator that meets your needs and has a long lifespan.
C. Durability
The durability of a generator is a crucial factor to consider while purchasing a generator. You want a machine that can withstand harsh weather conditions and constant use. It’s important to research different brands and read reviews to determine which ones have a reputation for longevity.
D. Availability of parts and service
It’s vital to invest in a generator with readily available parts and service. You don’t want to be stuck with a broken machine with no way to fix it if something goes wrong. Do some research and choose a brand that has a good reputation for providing quality customer service and readily available parts.
E. Noise level
If you are purchasing a generator for home or neighborhood use, the noise level will be a significant concern. Consider the noise level of different brands and find one that is quiet enough not to disturb your neighbors.
F. Power requirements
Another key factor to consider while purchasing a generator is the amount of power required for your needs. Make sure to choose a generator that has the capacity to power all the appliances and equipment that you need to run.
IV. Conclusion
A. Key takeaways
There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to purchasing a generator. It’s essential to consider the power requirements, budget, durability, availability of parts and service, and noise level before choosing a brand or model.
B. Recommendation based on different scenarios
For those who need a highly reliable generator with advanced features and don’t mind spending more money, Generac is an excellent choice. However, for those needing a more budget-friendly and lightweight option, Briggs and Stratton would be an ideal option.
C. Final thoughts and summary of findings
In conclusion, both Briggs and Generac offer durable and efficient generators with different features and capacities. It’s essential to do thorough research and choose a generator that meets your specific needs and budget. Remember to prioritize reliability, durability, and availability of parts and service while making your decision.
List of 10 briggs vs generac generator
- SPEED UP YOUR RECHARGEABILITY: It takes only 2 hours to recharge 80% battery of the power station through the wall outlet and 60W PD USB-C port simultaneously. You can also recharge your power station with an AC adapator when at home, through the car outlet during a road trip or simply use a Jackery SolarSaga 100.
- SAFE & STEADY POWER SUPPLY: Armed with a 293Wh lithium-ion battery pack, the Explorer 300 features 2 Pure Sine Wave AC outlets that deliver stable and safe 300W power. The portable power station weighs only 7.1 pounds. You can simply rest assured in outdoor off-grid activities.
- POWER YOUR EXPECTATIONS: Featuring 2* AC outlet, 1* PD 60W USB-C port (input/output supported) , 1* fast charge 3.0 port, 1*USB-A port and 1* DC car port, the power station can recharge itself and charge (up to) 6 devices (e.g.Drones, Macbook, Cameras, etc.) at the same time to satisfy your outdoor needs.
- GREEN POWER SUPPLY: The power station is compatible with the Jackery SolarSaga 100 solar panel. The integrated MPPT controller enables the solar generator set to operate at its max power point, so that it speeds up the battery recharge, making them ideal portable power kits for tent camping, overland journey and etc.
- WHAT YOU GET: 1* Jackery Explorer 300 Portable Power Station , 1*AC adapter, 1* car charger cable, 1* user guide
- [1 Hour AC Recharge] - Fully recharge the electric generator using an AC outlet in only 1 hour with EcoFlow's X-Stream fast charging technology.
- [Power All Your Essentials] - With an output of up to 600W, run 6 essential appliances simultaneously without worrying about overloading. With a whole host of ports, from 300W AC outlets to USB-C, we've got all your device's plugs covered.
- [LFP Long-Life Battery] - Using LFP battery cells, use and recharge RIVER 2 more than 3000 times before hitting 80%. That's almost 10 years of regular use. RIVER 2 includes advanced BMS protection, monitoring voltage, current, and temperature to keep your LFP battery running for years.
- [Fast Solar Charging] - Use clean, green renewable energy to recharge RIVER 2 power generator in as fast as 3 hours with 110W solar input.
- [Light & Portable] - With a lightweight of only 7.7 lbs, RIVER 2 is the ideal outdoor generator for all your off-grid adventures. With a built-in handle, this portable battery is easy and convenient to take anywhere you need power.
- LONG LASTING ENDURANCE: The Explorer 500 portable power station is built with the lithium-ion battery pack, in a safely designed frame structure to maximize, and long last the power for every single use of outdoor adventures and home use.
- THE PERFECT CAPACITY: With a 518 watt-hour (24Ah, 21.6V) capacity, it is ready to power many appliances - mini cooler, fan, projector, lamp light, and TV.
- SUPPORT PASS-THROUGH CHARGING: This power station features 1* AC outlet (110V 500W 1000W Peak), 3*USB-A ports, 2* DC ports, and 1*car port. Its Battery Management System governs each individual cell, improving the battery life cycle while being pass-through charged.
- DESIGNED FOR PORTABILITY: Same size as a basketball, this Explorer 500 is easy to carry with its solid handle, making it a compact and reliable choice for scenarios of camping, road-trip, RV, and home backup.
- WHAT YOU GET: 1* Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station (518Wh Power Station), 1*AC adapter, 1* car charger cable, 1* user manual.
- All-new control center with a digital multimeter, push-button start, and a front-facing fuel interface allowing you to change your fuel type in seconds! The digital multimeter displays voltage, frequency, total hours run, and hours until the recommended maintenance
- This generator runs on gasoline or propane, giving you the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice
- Equipped with DuroMax “CO Alert Technology” that will automatically shut down the generator if an unsafe level of carbon monoxide is detected
- Built using a powerful 500cc OHV DuroMax engine and features ALL COPPER WINDINGS designed to make your generator last for years
- The fully loaded power panel includes four 120V GFCI household outlets, one 120V 30AMP outlet, one 120/240V 30AMP twist-lock outlet, and a heavy-duty 120/240V 50AMP outlet making it transfer switch ready!
- FOR OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE: Spark plug that fits a variety of 4-cycle engines, designed to increase power, reduce fuel consumption, and improve hydrocarbon emissions
- PATENTED TECHNOLOGY: DiamondFIRE features a unique design with an edge-to-edge spark path, which allows replenishment of the spark zone with a fresh fuel/air charge
- INCREASED DURABILITY: Near elimination of performance inhibiting carbon deposits, which dramatically extends the life of the spark plug
- REPLACES: Champion RC12YC, RC14YC; NGK BCP4ES-11, BKR4E, BKR4E-11, BKR5E, BKR5E-11, BKRES, BKR6EKB-11, FR4, FR5
- Compatible with vehicle type: lawn and garden applications
- Powerful DuroMax Engine: the XP12000EH is powered by a DuroMax, 457cc OHV engine..With Gasoline : Peak Wattage - 12,000., Running Wattage - 9,500., Running Amperage at 120V - 79.17., Running Amperage at 240V - 39.58., Runtime at 25% Load - 19., Runtime at 50% Load - 8With Propane : Peak Wattage - 11,400., Running Wattage - 9,025., Running Amperage at 120V - 75.21., Running Amperage at 240V - 37.6., Runtime at 25% Load - 14., Runtime at 50% Load - 7Please read the detailed safety instructions in the manual before operating.
- Dual fuel technology: the ability to run on propane or gasoline allows the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice. Protects your investment by automatically shutting the generator off when it senses that the oil is low
- Plenty of power: with 12,000 starting watts and 9, 500 running watts, This unit can handle heavy loads from lights and a refrigerator to a home air conditioner and high amperage power tools.
- Maximum power: with DuroMax MX2 technology, get the maximum power from each of the 120 volt receptacle. Choose between operating the generator at both 120 V and 240 V Simultaneously, or at 120 only with full power.
- Powering everyone anywhere: like all DuroMax generators, the XP12000EH is EPA and CARB approved For use in all 50 States.
- Specs: Description: Starter Solenoid, Unique terminal post and sleeve will accommodate both 5/16" and 1/4" studs, Packaging type: Branded box, Solenoid: Grounded through terminal, base not grounded
- Replaces OEM Numbers: Ariens: 00696900, 035510, 03551000, 045071, 04507100, 07015000, 21546294, 35510, 45071, 59223400, AR03551000, AR04507100, AYP: 103R, 109081X, 109946, 109946X, 110167, 138406X, 146154, 178661, 2008J, 21261, 24285, 3367R, 44429, 532146154, 677A880, 7754R, Bolens: 1752137, 1753539, Briggs & Stratton: 5410D, 5410K, 745001MA, CaseIH: C-266525, C-33025, Cub Cadet: 725-04439A, 725-04439B, Exmark: 117-1197, 1-513075, 513075, Grasshopper: 184251
- Compatible With/Replacement For: Exmark: 52" and 60" Turf Tracer Floating Deck Walk-Behind Serial No. 190,000 - higher, without ECS, Scag: Freedom Z and SWZT Walk Behind, Toro: 60" and 72" Z 500'S Z Master
- Stens 1 year warranty ensures reliability and performance for every part. We're confident that our products will work flawlessly, but in a rare case that it does not, we'll replace it anytime within one year of your order.
- Stens branded parts are trusted by professional dealers to perform OEM quality repairs. The Stens name is featured on all Genuine Stens product packaging.
- Clean and Unlimited Solar Energy: 100% green energy with smart MPPT controller for optimal charging efficiency. The power station can be fully charged with 2 Jackery SolarSaga 100W solar panels (Should be bought separately) within 6 hrs or only 5.5 hrs via AC wall outlet charging. Ideal for your camping or family emergency storage.
- Easy to Use: The ergonomic shape of the handle grants an ease grip. And use in one touch with simple and speedy setup within 60s to enjoy outstanding charging efficiency.
- Safe & Reliable for Outdoor Camping: Features industry-leading cylindrical batteries (popular with manufacturers of Electric Vehicles) that meet UL safety standards. Certified with Impact-Resistance Class 9, passing the UL drop test (withstanding 3 drops from 0.9m height on any surface). The pure sine wave inverter delivers constant voltage that protects equipment from damage.
- Power Pretty Much Anything: Power 90% home appliances with 1002Wh (1000W AC output power) and 8 outlets (3*AC outlet, 1*USB-A , 1*USB-A quick charge 3.0, 2*USB-C PD, 1*Car outlet). Ideal for outdoor off-grid activities and home backup power to power refrigerator, TV, mini cooler, electric grill, fan, and more for your outdoor and home needs.
- Quiet & Strong: At a such large capacity, this Explorer will leave you with VERY LITTLE to NO noise, giving you the peace and power all at once. Extra bonus for the built - unlike most other portable generators, this supports pass-through charging while its battery life is protected.
- Scheduled maintenance kit is for standby home generators
- Kit for 12-18-Kilowatt 760cc - 990cc Engines
- Maintenance is recommended every 200-hours or 2-years
- Includes a pre-cleaner, air filter, oil filter, oil funnel, (2) spark plugs, chamois, instruction manual and preventative maintenance reminder sticker
- Oil must be purchased separately
People also ask
What is the difference between Briggs vs Generac Generators?
Briggs and Generac generators are both reliable brands, but they have some differences. Briggs generators are popular for their fuel efficient engines and their quiet operation, while Generac generators are known for their power output and durability.
Which one should I choose?
It depends on your specific needs. If you need a generator for your home, a Briggs generator might be a good choice due to its quiet operation, fuel efficiency, and affordability. If you need a generator for your business or for heavy duty use, a Generac generator might be a better option due to its power output and durability.
What kind of fuel do these generators use?
Both Briggs and Generac generators use either gasoline, propane, or natural gas as fuel sources.
What is the runtime for these generators?
The runtime for both Briggs and Generac generators varies depending on the size of the generator and the type of fuel used. However, most models can run for several hours on a single tank of fuel.
How loud are these generators?
Briggs generators are known for their quiet operation, with most models producing less than 60 decibels of noise. Generac generators can be louder, but they also produce more power, which can make up for the noise.
What is the warranty for these generators?
The warranty for Briggs and Generac generators varies depending on the model and the seller. However, most models come with a 2 to 3 year warranty.
Can these generators be used for camping or outdoor activities?
Yes, both Briggs and Generac generators can be used for camping or outdoor activities. However, you will need to ensure that you have enough fuel and that you are following safety guidelines for outdoor use.
Which one is more affordable?
Briggs generators are generally more affordable than Generac generators, but the cost depends on the specific model and the seller.