Based on my experience with portable gensets (I have a 10k kw troybilt TRI-Fuel unit and a portable 2k Harbor Freight inverter unit), this B&S generator is a GASHOG.
On the one hand I don’t think you can make these kinds of inferences across brands, fuels, power ratings and generator types. For example, a 10kW generator making a kilowatt will generally be less efficient than a 2kW generator making the same power – the engine is bigger and has more internal friction, and would be operating further from the peak of its efficiency curve.
On the other hand, in this case it looks like you’re not far off the mark. Kinda loud, kinda inefficient, compared to similar generators:
Yes! All of what he said.
This machine is louder, heavier, less fuel efficient. The only pros are the slightly higher surge watts and the CO guard. However, if you’re following generator rules and using it outside in a well ventilated area, you shouldn’t ever need the CO guard.
I own the generator linked about and it is as advertised. And it costs almost exactly the same as this Briggs and Stratton. I would definitely avoid this generator. Not cause it’s “bad” but because there are MUCH better options for the same price.
For $20 less with free shipping, you can get a WEN 56235i inverter gen that has 100 more running watts, is 11 dB quieter, is 17lbs lighter, and runs 1.5 hours longer per gallon at 25% load. And if you keep an eye on the website, the WEN also occasionally goes on sale for $379, which is what I paid for mine.
The B&S has a CO monitor that the WEN doesn’t have, and the WEN has a 12v DC automotive-style power outlet that the B&S doesn’t have. They both use a 79cc 4-stroke motor.
Regardless of which one you get, one of these small inverter generators is a great tool for emergencies, camping, worksites, or even just for power at the far end of your backyard.
Thanks for comments, I was thinking this was a good option but the WEN is still the front runner for me at this point.
Have had to ship my WEN 2350 back twice due to OHV adjustment or pull cord recoil problem…After 2 weeks the pull cord gets to 3/4 and hits a hard stop…wish I knew what to do
.anyone know how to reset valves on this generator?.