How to Choose the Right Home Generator
South Florida families have seen it plenty of times. A hurricane blows through and the lights cut out. The AC stops, the fridge hums to a halt, and it is the middle of the night with kids waking up sweaty. In West Florida, even a quick afternoon storm can drop a tree on the lines and take out the whole street. When the power is gone, food starts to spoil and anyone who needs medical equipment has a problem that cannot wait. That is when a standby generator earns its keep.
That is why so many homeowners turn to standby generators. But which brand is right for your house? Generac, Kohler, and Briggs & Stratton are three of the most common names. Each has strengths. Each has trade-offs. The goal here is to give you the information you need to make a confident choice.
Why Choosing the Right Generator Matters
A standby generator is more than another appliance. It is your safety net when the power fails. Picking the right one makes sure:
- Your air conditioning keeps running in Florida heat
- Refrigerators and freezers stay cold during multi-day outages
- Sump pumps and well pumps keep working
- Lights, Wi-Fi, and chargers stay on so you can stay connected
The wrong choice can leave you with a system that is too small, too noisy, or too inefficient for long outages.
Comparing Generac, Kohler, and Briggs & Stratton
Here is what stands out when comparing these three residential generator brands:
Generac
- Widely recognized, with a large dealer network across Florida
- Popular standby models that start automatically in seconds
- Runs on natural gas or propane
- Broad size range for both partial and whole-home backup
- Some models can be louder than competitors
Kohler
- Known for premium build and long-lasting durability
- Quieter operation than many comparable models
- Runs on natural gas or propane
- Often priced higher than Generac or Briggs & Stratton
- Strong warranty coverage
Briggs & Stratton
- More budget-friendly, a solid option for smaller homes
- Compact units that fit tight spaces
- Runs on natural gas or propane
- Dealer network is smaller in Florida, so support can be harder to find
- Fewer advanced features on entry-level models
For many families, the choice comes down to how much of the home you want to power, how quiet you want the unit to be, and what budget you are working with.
Features to Consider
No matter which brand you lean toward, there are features that really make a difference during an outage:
- Automatic transfer switch. Powers your home automatically within seconds of the grid going down.
- Noise level. Matters in residential neighborhoods where generators run for hours.
- Fuel efficiency. The more efficient the unit, the less propane or gas you burn during long outages.
- Corrosion resistance. In South Florida, salt air can eat away at equipment. Look for weather-resistant enclosures.
- Remote monitoring. Handy for snowbirds or anyone who travels, lets you check your system on your phone.
Financing and Installation Considerations
A generator is a major investment, but it does not have to be an upfront burden. Reliable Power offers financing so homeowners can spread the cost into manageable payments. Many Florida families choose this option after a storm season reminder of just how critical backup power is.
Installation is not something to DIY. Proper sizing, safe fuel connections, and code compliance are critical. A professional installer makes sure the system matches your home’s electrical load and is ready to perform when the next outage comes.
Learn more about our generator installation services and how we help Florida families stay prepared.
FAQs
Which brand is most popular in Florida?
Generac has the widest dealer network and is very common, but Kohler and Briggs & Stratton both have strong followings depending on needs and budget.
Do these generators run on gasoline?
No. Standby systems run on natural gas or propane, which are safer and more reliable during extended outages.
How long do they last?
With regular service, most standby generators last 15 to 20 years.
Are standby generators loud?
Noise levels vary. Kohler is often quieter, while Generac and Briggs & Stratton offer models with sound-reduction features.
Can I finance a generator?
Yes. Financing options are available so you can install backup power without paying all at once.
How do I know what size to choose?
It depends on how much of your home you want covered. A professional assessment is the best way to size your generator.
Choosing a Generator with Confidence
Florida storms will always test the grid. The difference is whether your home is ready or not. A generator that fits your house keeps the AC on, the food cold, and life moving even when the lights are out down the street. Our team at Reliable Power helps families across South and West Florida sort through the options so the next outage is just an inconvenience, not a crisis.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get expert support every step of the way.
