Standby generators have become indispensable for both residential and commercial properties, ensuring that essential appliances and systems remain operational during power outages. Among the many options available in the market, the Briggs & Stratton 40346 20000-Watt Standby Generator stands out for its robust performance and reliability. This review will provide an in-depth look at the generator, including its features, advantages, disadvantages, cost performance, and comparisons with competing products.
Product Overview
The Briggs & Stratton 40346 is a powerful standby generator designed to provide a reliable power source during outages. With a 20,000-watt capacity, it can easily handle the electrical needs of a large home or small business. The generator is powered by a commercial-grade Vanguard engine, ensuring durability and consistent performance. It operates on both natural gas and liquid propane, offering flexibility for various installation scenarios.
Key Features
Power Output: 20,000 watts
Engine: Vanguard commercial-grade
Fuel Options: Natural gas and liquid propane
Transfer Switch: Included, with Symphony® II Power Management
Noise Level: Approximately 74 decibels during operation
Warranty: 5 years
The generator’s design emphasizes convenience and ease of use. It includes a transfer switch that ensures automatic activation during a power outage, providing seamless transition without user intervention. The Symphony® II Power Management system optimizes power distribution, ensuring that essential appliances receive priority during an outage.
Summary of Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
High Power Output: The 20,000-watt capacity can handle the electrical load of large homes and small businesses, ensuring that critical systems remain operational during outages.
Reliable Engine: The Vanguard commercial-grade engine is known for its durability and reliability, providing consistent performance over time.
Fuel Flexibility: The ability to operate on both natural gas and liquid propane offers installation flexibility and ensures continuous operation during extended outages.
Automatic Transfer Switch: The included transfer switch with Symphony® II Power Management simplifies operation and ensures that essential appliances receive priority power.
Comprehensive Warranty: A 5-year warranty provides peace of mind, ensuring that any potential issues will be addressed by the manufacturer.
Disadvantages
Noise Level: At 74 decibels, the generator can be relatively noisy during operation, which may be a concern for some users, especially in residential areas.
Installation Cost: Professional installation is required, which can add to the overall cost of the generator.
Maintenance Requirements: Regular maintenance is necessary to ensure optimal performance, which can be an additional ongoing expense.
Comparison with Competing Products
When evaluating the Briggs & Stratton 40346 against other standby generators in the market, several key competitors come to mind: the Generac 7043 and the Kohler 20RESCL-200SELS. Here’s how they stack up:
Generac 7043
Power Output: 22,000 watts
Engine: Generac G-Force engine
Fuel Options: Natural gas and liquid propane
Noise Level: Approximately 67 decibels
Warranty: 5 years
The Generac 7043 offers slightly higher power output and a quieter operation compared to the Briggs & Stratton 40346. However, it lacks the Symphony® II Power Management system, which can make power distribution less efficient during an outage.
Kohler 20RESCL-200SELS
Power Output: 20,000 watts
Engine: Kohler Command PRO engine
Fuel Options: Natural gas and liquid propane
Noise Level: Approximately 69 decibels
Warranty: 5 years
The Kohler 20RESCL-200SELS is comparable to the Briggs & Stratton 40346 in terms of power output and fuel options. It is also quieter, but like the Generac, it does not include a power management system, which can affect overall efficiency.
see also: 3 Best Kohler Whole Home Generator In 2024
Cost Performance
The Briggs & Stratton 40346 20000-Watt Standby Generator is competitively priced within its category. While the initial cost may be higher than some lower-capacity models, the generator’s robust features and reliable performance justify the investment. When considering the cost performance, it is essential to factor in the long-term benefits, such as the 5-year warranty, the reliability of the Vanguard engine, and the efficiency of the Symphony® II Power Management system.
Installation and Maintenance Costs
Installation: Professional installation is required, which can vary based on location and specific site requirements. On average, installation costs range from $2,000 to $5,000.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure optimal performance. Annual maintenance costs typically range from $200 to $400, depending on the service provider and specific maintenance requirements.
Long-term Savings
Investing in a standby generator like the Briggs & Stratton 40346 can lead to long-term savings by preventing losses associated with power outages. For businesses, this can mean avoiding downtime and lost revenue. For homeowners, it can prevent costly damages associated with prolonged power outages, such as spoiled food and potential water damage from sump pump failures.
Purchase Recommendations
When considering the purchase of the Briggs & Stratton 40346 20000-Watt Standby Generator, it is essential to assess your specific power needs and installation requirements. Here are some recommendations to help guide your decision:
Assess Power Needs: Determine the total wattage required for essential appliances and systems in your home or business. This will ensure that the generator’s 20,000-watt capacity is sufficient for your needs.
Consult a Professional: Engage a certified electrician or generator specialist to evaluate your site and provide an installation estimate. This will help you understand the total cost and ensure proper installation.
Consider Noise Levels: If noise is a concern, particularly in residential areas, explore options for noise reduction, such as installing the generator in a soundproof enclosure or selecting a location that minimizes noise impact.
Review Warranty and Service Plans: Ensure that you understand the warranty coverage and available service plans. This will help you plan for ongoing maintenance and address any potential issues promptly.
Conclusion
The Briggs & Stratton 40346 20000-Watt Standby Generator is a powerful and reliable option for ensuring continuous power during outages. Its high power output, reliable engine, and fuel flexibility make it a strong contender in the standby generator market. While it does have some disadvantages, such as noise level and installation costs, the overall benefits and performance make it a worthwhile investment for both residential and commercial users.
FAQs:
What is the fuel consumption of the Briggs & Stratton 40346?
The fuel consumption of the Briggs & Stratton 40346 varies depending on the load and fuel type. On average, it consumes approximately 2.45 gallons per hour on natural gas and 3.36 gallons per hour on liquid propane at full load.
How often should the generator be serviced?
Regular maintenance is crucial for optimal performance. It is recommended to service the generator annually or after every 100 hours of operation, whichever comes first. This includes checking and changing the oil, air filter, and spark plugs, as well as inspecting the fuel system and electrical connections.
Can the generator be used for off-grid applications?
The Briggs & Stratton 40346 is designed primarily for standby use during power outages and is not intended for continuous off-grid applications. For off-grid power needs, consider a generator specifically designed for continuous operation.
What is the warranty coverage for the Briggs & Stratton 40346?
The generator comes with a 5-year limited warranty that covers parts and labor for repairs needed due to defects in materials or workmanship. It is essential to review the warranty terms and conditions to understand the full extent of coverage.
How loud is the Briggs & Stratton 40346 during operation?
The generator operates at approximately 74 decibels, which is comparable to the noise level of a vacuum cleaner. While this may be relatively loud for some users, proper placement and noise reduction measures can help mitigate the impact.
Is professional installation required?
Yes, professional installation is required to ensure proper setup and safe operation. It is important to hire a certified electrician or generator specialist to handle the installation process.
The Briggs & Stratton 40346 20000-Watt Standby Generator offers robust performance and reliability, making it a valuable investment for ensuring continuous power during outages. By understanding its features, advantages, and considerations, you can make an informed decision that meets your specific power needs.
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