Backup Generators | Briggs & Stratton

You like to be prepared. From a hurricane to a snowstorm, a tailgating party to home improvement projects – you want the power on. Let us help you determine whether a portable generator or a standby generator is the best generator for you.

Whole-Home Generators Versus Portable Generators

Find out which type of generator is right for you — check out this side-by-side comparison.


	Portable Generators A temporary solution for power whenever and wherever you need it.	Standby Generators A permanent power solution for all the conveniences of life uninterrupted.
Installation	Portable; proper storage required No installation needed; must be operated outside	Permanently installed outside your home Professionally installed by a certified Briggs & Stratton dealer or licensed electrician.
Starting	Manual (recoil or electric start)	Automatic when power goes out
Fuel Type	Gasoline Refueling needed	Natural gas or liquid propane No refueling needed
What It Can Power	Outdoor items plugged directly into the generator Indoor items through a manual transfer switch	Overall home needs such as lights, water heater, refrigerator, air conditioner, etc. Automatically manages high wattage appliance priority with Symphony^® II power management system for automatic load management