Are Briggs and Stratton Generators Good

If you’re thinking about investing in a standby generator for your home or business, you’ve probably come across the name Briggs & Stratton. They’ve been around for over a century, but the real question is: Are Briggs and Stratton generators actually good?

In this post, we’re going to break it down in simple terms. Whether you're looking for backup power for your home during an outage or need something more robust for your business, this guide will help you understand what Briggs & Stratton brings to the table—and whether it’s the right choice for you.

Are Briggs and Stratton Generators Good

A Quick Look at Briggs & Stratton

Briggs & Stratton is an American company with a long history in the engine and power equipment industry. They've been building small engines since 1908, and today, they’re one of the biggest names in residential and commercial power solutions. Known for making durable engines, they’ve taken that same reliability and applied it to their whole home generators, portable generators, and commercial standby units.

They’re not just an engine company anymore—they’re a generator brand trusted by many homeowners and businesses across the country.

Pros of Briggs & Stratton Generators

Let’s start with the good stuff. Here’s why many people choose Briggs & Stratton generators:

1. Reliable Performance

Briggs & Stratton generators are known for dependability. When the power goes out, you want to feel confident that your backup system is going to kick on and keep everything running smoothly. Their generators are designed to handle tough conditions and operate for extended periods—perfect for long Michigan winters or unexpected summer storms.

2. Power for the Whole House

Many Briggs & Stratton standby generators are powerful enough to run your entire home. This means you won’t have to pick and choose which appliances stay on during an outage. Your lights, fridge, sump pump, and even your HVAC system can stay up and running without a hitch.

3. Easy to Use

These systems are designed with the homeowner in mind. Once installed, a Briggs & Stratton standby generator will automatically detect a power outage and start up on its own. You don’t need to be home or even think about it—your home stays powered without you lifting a finger.

4. Trusted Engine Technology

Briggs & Stratton makes their own engines, and that’s a big deal. You’re getting a product built by the same people who designed the engine inside it. Their Vanguard™ and Commercial Series engines are especially popular for their durability and performance.

5. Warranty Coverage

Briggs & Stratton offers competitive warranties, typically ranging from 5 to 10 years, depending on the model. That’s added peace of mind knowing you’re covered in case something goes wrong.

6. Compact Design

Some models are more compact than others in the same class. This makes them a great option if you’re working with limited space or need a unit that doesn’t stand out too much in your yard.

Things to Consider Before You Buy

No product is perfect for every situation, and it’s important to be aware of potential drawbacks.

Are Briggs and Stratton Generators Good

1. Noise Levels

While Briggs & Stratton generators are quieter than many portable options, some models are a bit louder than comparable standby generators from brands like Generac or Kohler. If noise is a big concern (for example, if your unit will be installed close to a bedroom window), talk to your installer about low-noise models or installation options that can reduce sound levels.

2. Maintenance Requirements

Like all generators, Briggs & Stratton units require regular maintenance to keep them running at their best. This includes oil changes, filter replacements, and annual service checks. At Osburn Services, we offer maintenance plans to help you stay on top of these needs so your system is always ready to perform.

3. Installation Costs

Briggs & Stratton generators are competitively priced, but don’t forget to factor in the cost of professional installation. This includes the concrete pad, transfer switch, electrical work, and fuel connection (usually natural gas or propane). The good news? Once it’s installed, you’ll have reliable backup power for years to come.

Comparing Briggs & Stratton to Other Brands

How does Briggs & Stratton stack up against other major generator brands? Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison:

Feature	Briggs & Stratton	Generac	Kohler
Engine Manufacturer	In-house (B&S)	In-house (Generac)	In-house (Kohler)
Warranty Length	5–10 years	5–10 years	5–10 years
Whole-House Capable	Yes	Yes	Yes
Remote Monitoring	Yes (InfoHub™)	Yes (Mobile Link)	Yes (OnCue)
Price Range	Mid-range	Mid-range	High-end

As you can see, Briggs & Stratton holds its own against the top players in the market. They might not be as widely recognized as Generac in the generator world, but they offer similar features and reliability—often at a more affordable price point.

Best Briggs & Stratton Models to Consider

Here are a few popular models that Michigan homeowners often choose:

Briggs & Stratton 20kW Fortress Standby Generator

• Ideal for larger homes
  
• Powers entire household
  
• Comes with a Symphony® II Power Management system
  
• 10-Year limited warranty
  

Briggs & Stratton 12kW Standby Generator

• Great for mid-sized homes
  
• Compact and cost-effective
  
• Available with an automatic transfer switch
  

Briggs & Stratton Q6500 Portable Inverter Generator

• Great for temporary or portable use (camping, tailgating, job sites)
  
• Quiet operation and fuel efficient
  
• Not for whole-home backup, but excellent in a pinch
  

Are Briggs and Stratton Generators Good

Who Should Buy a Briggs & Stratton Generator?

Briggs & Stratton generators are a great fit if you:

• Want affordable whole-home coverage
  
• Value long-term reliability
  
• Prefer a brand with proven engine expertise
  
• Need a generator that’s easy to use and maintain
  

They’re especially popular among homeowners in rural areas, people who experience frequent power outages, and those who want peace of mind knowing their home is protected no matter the weather.

Final Verdict: Are Briggs and Stratton Generators Good?

Yes—Briggs and Stratton generators are a solid choice for anyone looking for reliable, long-lasting backup power. They offer powerful performance, trusted engineering, and great value for the money. Whether you’re dealing with unpredictable Michigan storms or planning ahead for emergency preparedness, these generators will keep your lights on and your family safe.

At Osburn Services, we install, service, and maintain Briggs & Stratton generators all across Michigan. We’re here to help you choose the right size, model, and setup for your home or business—and we back it up with expert installation and ongoing support.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re considering a generator, we’d love to help. Contact Osburn Services today to schedule a free consultation. We’ll walk you through your options, answer your questions, and make sure you’re ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.