Any prices mentioned in our blogs are subject to change at any time. All information is subject to change however, correct at the time of posting. Please check the manufacturer's website for the most up to date information

From minor thunderstorms to natural disasters, power outages are inevitable. They are potential dangers every homeowner should prepare for, and we’re here to help. Loss of electricity can be a frightening and potentially dangerous event, but it does not have to be. Choosing the right standby generator will help to ensure that your home has access to appliances and outside communications when the power fails. At first glance, choosing a standby generator may seem like a daunting task. There are several brand options on the market, but not all generators are created equal. In this article, we will discuss our two most popular and recommended models from Generac and Briggs & Stratton. Built to last, these standby generators provide the best performance for homes of all sizes in Fairfield County.

Some Factors that Differentiate Both Brands

Enclosure

Generac’s unique enclosure is distinctive and easily recognizable. The beige box with an orange logo is made from durable aluminum material and will last for years to come. The Briggs and Stratton company’s enclosures are made of automotive-grade Galvanneal steel. These enclosures are rust-resistant  and every bit as rugged as they look.

Price

A Generac standby generator will cost a little more than its Briggs & Stratton counterpart. Both are sturdy and well-built, but the Generac option is typically equipped for better performance than the Briggs-Stratton alternative.

Top Models from Generac and Briggs and Stratton

Generac 22KW Home Standby Generator

Generac 22KW Home Standby Generator

Generac 22KW Home Backup Generator is suitable for any homeowner with a sizable property and the desire to power large appliances like central heating and air. This robust device is strong enough to provide all the power you need for your residential property. If you are looking for the generator that can handle just about anything you throw at it, consider having us install this unit for you.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K49dpfdiIxU

Pros

  • It is among the most powerful air-cooled backup generators on the market.
  • This model offers the lowest MSRP cost per kilowatt of its class.
  • Generac’s G-Force engine is powerful and provides higher reliability with lower maintenance requirements.
  • Features a durable finish with RhinoCoat protection is built to last and stands up to the most rigorous weather conditions.
  • This backup home generator is quieter and more fuel-efficient than many other options.
  •  True Power Technology offers less than 5% harmonic distortion for smooth operation of appliances.
  • Wi-Fi capability makes monitoring the status of this generator from anywhere is easy and convenient via computer, smart phone, or a tablet.
  • Generac’s Evolution Controller provides an onboard LCD display to monitor battery and maintenance in multiple languages.
  • This generator can be connected to the existing liquid propane or natural gas supply.
  • With auto-detection for power loss, this generator is up and running within a few seconds.
  • Generac 22KW features removable door panels for easy installation.
  • Customer support is available 24/7.
  • This generator also comes with a limited 5-year warranty.

Cons

  • This generator is only protected by its 5-year limited warranty
  • We tried hard to find a few for you, but this standby generator really lives up to the hype.

Generac 16kW Standby Generator

Generac 16kW Standby Generator

This Guardian Series generator is another highly recommended home standby generator. Fast, professional installation means you can have it installed today. It can provide automatic backup power during an outage. This device can easily be connected to existing natural gas and KP fuel supplies.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zjxwWHc6394

Pros

  • True Power Technology offers less than 5% harmonic distortion for smooth operation of appliances.
  • Generac’s G-Force engine is powerful and provides higher reliability with lower maintenance requirements.
  • Wi-Fi capability makes monitoring the status of this generator from anywhere is easy and convenient via computer, smart phone, or a tablet.
  • It features a durable finish with RhinoCoat protection that stands up to the most rigorous weather conditions.
  • Generac’s Evolution Controller provides an onboard LCD display to monitor battery and maintenance in multiple languages.
  • Customer service support is available 24/7.

Cons

  • It is a heavy unit that should be installed by professionals
  • 5-year limited warranty

Briggs and Stratton Standby Generator with 200 AMP Transfer Switch

Briggs and Stratton Standby Generator with 200 AMP Transfer Switch

This may be one of the most popular models from Briggs and Stratton. The brand is well known for its reliability and performance, and this model does not disappoint. The device will run on both natural gas and propane. It is designed to safely and efficiently power sensitive electronic devices.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OD0HE0hT3U8

Pros

  • Patented Symphony II Power Management makes it capable of managing the power for high-demand appliances.
  • Sound dampening technology significantly reduces the noise level generators are prone to produce.
  • This model complies with the National Fire Protection Agency 37 Standard.

Cons

  • There is a one-minute delay from this generator, so outages will be more noticeable at first.
  • Separate backup batteries will be required to keep computers or other electronics connected while the generator powers up.

Briggs and Stratton G140 Standby Generator

Briggs and Stratton G140 Standby Generator

If you are looking to find an affordable generator model, with a Briggs and Stratton badge, we recommend you look at this option. It is specially designed to provide enough juice to keep all your electronics running during a power outage. It is a rugged and durable device equipped with automotive-grade Galvanneal steel and a specially designed finish to resist rust.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TZcfRJhznV4

Pros

  • Briggs & Stratton Intek commercial-grade powerful engine will provide the power you need when the lights go out.
  • They build the durable enclosure with automotive-grade Galvanneal steel and advanced power paint finish to resist rust. This rugged option withstands even the harshest weather conditions.
  • The Briggs & Stratton G140 will work with both natural gas and liquid propane.
  • It features an automatic starter to prevent delays in power production.
  • Hear your television, not your generator. The noise reduction feature operates at 66.7 decibels at 50% load. This quiet system can be a pleasure to use in your home.

Cons

 

 

  • Suitable for mid-sized home

Take The Leap

There are many backup generators available on the market today. The trick is in finding the perfect option for your home and needs. Here, we have detailed some major differences between our two most popular brands. There are a few key buying points to keep in mind when making your potentially life-saving choice. Consider the cost. If you are looking for a lower upfront cost, Briggs and Stratton will be a good place to begin. To determine how much power your backup generator should have, consider calculating the wattage of the devices, appliances, and systems you need to operate. Should energy efficiency and low maintenance be your primary concern, you might want to go with our Generac models. No matter which brand option you choose, contact the best generator installation team in Fairfield County and get your home emergency ready for the next power outage event. We will have you ready and able to keep warm and cook a meal without starting a bonfire in your living room.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.
Name

Areas We Serve

Fairfield County: All along the Gold Coast, up to New Milford, Santella Electric, Inc. covers all of Fairfield County, CT. Connecticut is our home and we love serving the residents of the Nutmeg State. We are headquartered in New Canaan and have a full fleet of trucks all over the county at any given time. Fairfield County trusts Santella Electric!

Westchester County: From Pound Ridge to Mount Kisco, we love serving Southern New York. Many of our technicians reside in Westchester County and can be counted on by your family or business both day and night.

New Canaan
Pound Ridge, NY
Stamford
Bridgeport
Cos Cob
South Salem, NY
Darien
 Norwalk
Fairfield
Greenwich
Mount Kisco, NY
Wilton

& all of Fairfield County!

 

Google Reviews

Santella Electric
4.8
Based on 95 reviews
powered by Google
Aimee ShieldsAimee Shields
15:54 21 Nov 22
We had a fantastic experience with Santella. Tony came to our house and was incredibly knowledgable, professional, and friendly. He not only knew exactly what to do, he also consulted me for decisions about how to position all my new fixtures and outlets. As a person who really cares about the details and aesthetic, I appreciated that more than I can say. A few of our projects were tricky due to our house layout, especially adding outdoor outlets, but Tony worked hard to make it all work and look good. I'm very pleased with our updated lighting/power and will definitely ask for him again next time we call Santella!
Brian StapletonBrian Stapleton
00:24 19 Nov 22
Tony at Santella Electric is the best. Professional, responsive, courteous and intelligent. I trust his work and highly recommend him.
Jan HilgemanJan Hilgeman
13:00 19 Oct 22
This we our first time using Santella Electric at our new home. The office personnel were responsive and friendly, and we loved the electrician who came to troubleshoot and do the repairs we need. Courteous, friendly, respectful and resolved the problem easily. He took the time to explain the problem so I could understand it.
Karin SchrammKarin Schramm
14:31 07 Oct 22
Johan was on time, professional & explained all the work he did. Thank goodness, he had the circuit breaker’s we needed + the updated GCFI outlet for the kitchen. Now, my Mom can use her stove, oven, washer & dryer, again. SO grateful.
js_loader