Briggs & Stratton Storm Responder - 6250/8500W Portable Generator
The Briggs & Stratton Storm Responder (30728) is a portable open frame generator with a rated wattage of 6,250 W and a starting wattage of 8,500 W. (Read full specs)
The Home Depot 
Amazon Price history for the Briggs & Stratton Storm Responder
Page Content
Description
Storm Ready, this is the ideal quick response generator!
Zoom on the Briggs & Stratton Storm Responder
To sum up, the Briggs & Stratton Storm Responder is a portable generator tailored for:
- Food truck owners who do not wish to see their business interrupted under any circumstances
- Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
- Professionals in need of safely powering high-intensity work or lighting equipment
Over the following sections, you'll uncover its power characteristics, the selection of outlets it offers, its overall portability, and the supplementary features it includes.
Power & Run Time
The Briggs & Stratton Storm Responder
Running on gasoline, the Briggs & Stratton Storm Responder utilizes a 420 cc Briggs & Stratton OHV 4-stroke engine to deliver 120/240V, offering a running wattage of 6,250W and a starting wattage of 8,500W.
This generator is started via a standard recoil pull-rope starting mechanism.
The fuel capacity of 7.5 gallons allows the Storm Responder to operate for around 11 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.68 GPH).
Outlets
The control panel features the following 5 AC outlets:
Because the Storm Responder is equipped with a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, it is transfer switch ready: it can power your home during a power outage, as it can be easily connected to your breaker box to power your household.
Portability
At L28 x W27 x H28 in, the standard open frame design of the Briggs & Stratton Storm Responder delivers stability alongside easy maintenance access to components and good air cooling. The generator is designed for outdoor use and demanding environments.
With a weight of 210 lbs, the generator is still labeled as 'portable,' denoting its ability to be moved, although its heaviness might restrict easy portability. However, its challenging mobility is solved by its wheel kit (⌀10") and its folding handle, which will ease its displacement, once it is on the floor.
Features
The Storm Responder's control panel
The control panel of the Storm Responder includes a digital StatStation™ data center, which assists you in monitoring its status and activity, as it provides information on the lifetime run hours and power output.
Featuring a built-in fuel gauge, the generator offers quick, convenient, and easy gas level checks at a glance.
As for its security measures, the device features an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, letting you use it with a peace of mind.
The Storm Responder also benefits from Briggs & Stratton’s CO Guard™ (opens in a new tab) carbon monoxide shutdown. This new patent-pending technology uses advanced algorithms to shut down the generator when harmful levels of carbon monoxide accumulate in the generator's operating area.
In addition to the standard documentation and owner's manual (opens in a new tab) for prompt setup, Briggs & Stratton has also included a extension cord in the packaging of the Storm Responder.
The Briggs & Stratton Storm Responder versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Briggs & Stratton Storm Responder compare to generators of similar power (between 5500 and 6500 W).
- Tipping the scales at 210 lbs, the Briggs & Stratton Storm Responder qualifies as one of the heavier options among generators rated between 5500 and 6500 watts. If weight is a key factor for your needs, the Genmax GM6250iET is noteworthy for being one of the top contenders in this power range, with a dry weight of 102.6 pounds.
- At 50% load, the Storm Responder achieves one of the longer run times compared to devices of similar power, sustaining operations for around 11 hours. If runtime is a priority for you, the Pulsar PG7500 stands out as one of the generators with the longest run time in its power range, providing around 13 hours of continuous use.
- Run time is a key metric, but it's dependent on the generator's fuel capacity. Therefore, discussing fuel efficiency is necessary to get the full picture. Compared to similar devices, this generator is less fuel-efficient than most: it burns around 0.68 gallons of gasoline per hour at a 50% load. If you wish to acquire one of the most gasoline efficient products of this power range, the DuroMax XP7000iHT, with a fuel consumption of 0.38 GPH could be in your good books.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 5500-6500W generators, the Briggs & Stratton Storm Responder is on the cheap side of the price range.
It can therefore be a really good buy if you're looking to acquire a budget generator.
The bottom line
- Inexpensive
- CO Guard™ technology
- GFCI Outlets
- High run time
- No 50-amp output
- No electric start
- On the heavy side (210 lbs)
- Low fuel efficiency
Do you own the Briggs & Stratton Storm Responder and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?
Let us know and write your own review.
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 420 cc Briggs & Stratton OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 6,250 W |
| Starting watts | 8,500 W |
| Running amps (@120/240V) | 52.1/26 amps |
| Peak amps (@120/240V) | 70.8/35.4 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 11 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | Yes |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | No |
| Data center | Power output and lifetime run hours |
| Indicators | No |
| Fuel tank | 7.5 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 210 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 28 x 27 x 28 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | Unknown |
| THD | Unknown |
| Compliance | EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection, CO monitoring |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Bonded to frame |
| Accessories included | Extension cord and wheel kit |
| UPC | 011675307288 |
We've taken extra care to research and verify each of the specifications above. That said, occasional mistakes or omissions are still possible. If you spot any missing or inaccurate information, feel free to suggest a correction so we can address it.
About Briggs & Stratton
Founded in 1908, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Briggs & Stratton is a well renowned American based gasoline engine manufacturer. While the company mainly focuses on engines – including outdoor, power tool, karting, cast iron and aluminum models, power generators are a crucial component of their portfolio as well – Briggs & Stratton provides both portable and standby solutions for casual users with full support, including installation. The company operates on a global scale, with 13 facilities spread across all the of the continents.
Warranty Information
The Briggs & Stratton Storm Responder is covered under a warranty for up to 2 years. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of Briggs & Stratton generators, please consult Briggs & Stratton's warranty policies stated in the user manual (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support : 1-800-743-4115.
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 |
| Microwave (1000 watts) | 1500 | 1500 | |
| AC (10,000 BTU) | 1500 | 2200 | |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Slow cooker | 270 | 270 | |
| Total | 4962 W | 5962 W | |
| For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Electric grill | 1650 | 1650 | |
| Slow cooker | 270 | 270 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 4990 W | 5580 W | |
| For work | Table saw | 1800 | 4500 |
| Air compressor (1 hp) | 1600 | 6100 | |
| Drain cleaner | 250 | 250 | |
| Electric fence (25 miles) | 250 | 250 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 3980 W | 8480 W |
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
i’ve owned the B&S 6250/8500 Storm Responder since 8/2017. I’ve used it 4 times, twice with the 30A plug and transfer switch on my home box. It worked well. It ran during and after Berly for 36h, no problem. I ran it another 4h while the power company was installing new equipment to all the homes in the neighborhood. It was a treat to see it start each time on the first pull, then run without any problems. Powers everything in the house except AC, oven, sauna, and threw a cord to my neighbor who even ran his coffee maker (AC is a dual compressor, variable speed and 30A is not enough power). Never saw the lights flicker. Running 1d-2d is probably not enough to burn up any sensitive electronics, but a longer outage would. I’m likely to upgrade to an multi-fuel inverter generator powerful enough to handle the AC. It will be relatively expensive, but much lower cost than a stand-by unit.
I have 2 of these. One is several years old with 92 hrs on it…..works great. The other one is fairly new with 19 hrs on it, but it shuts off when using 60%.
My generator worked great the only time i had to use it. Now i was just trying to start it and the start pull cord broke.
Not the rope but the rewind spring? I just need to order the casing and rewind compartment but can’t find anything just for parts. Is this so I need to contact a repair dealership. It’s only 3 bolts to repair>>>
Above expectations during the 2022 hurricane black out.Runing time was extended but the job was great for us without problems during the 5 days without power.We just moved to Florida and the Storm Responder was the only choose at short notice but seems was the right one .
Had for a year and never even put gas in it. A tropical storm came and I gassed it up in preparation. After only ten minutes or so running my camper at 20% load, it stopped providing power. The motor ran fine, but no juice and the display was cycling on and off. I took it to a certified Briggs and Stratton repair shop and they had to replace the circuit board. Usually it’s covered under warranty for the first year, but I was a month over. After part and labor, the bill was almost $600 for a generator I paid $800 for. I works fine now, but I have $1,400 in a generator that only performs at an $800 level.
Bought one a few years back and it has been good so far. Pretty much ran my whole house minus the AC ( i diddnt try). Theres 2 things i can complain about, 1. I went through a break in procedure of running it for 30 min , letting it cool off and changing the oil ( running royal purple break in oil) and the amount of metal that came out of the oil was pretty surprising. Im a gear head and have not seen many engines dump this much metal in the oil for the first 5 oil changes. It did clear up after about 5 oil changes and there seems to be no more flake now. 2. The noise, it is a loud generator, very loud. But it works well for me and seems to be of decent quality materials. Overall i am very pleased with this generator and would recommend it , just follow a break in procedure and it will last for years to come!
Worse generator I’ve ever owned !!….. I bought two of these pieces of crap and both died within 20hrs of running…. Don’t waste a cent on this garbage !!!!
See the bottom pros and cons.
I purchased the 8500 Storm Responder today. We were ravaged by Hurricane Laura and will be without power for weeks. So was super happy to get it after 4 days of suffering. BUT I purchased it from L***s and they offered zero warranty. They said Briggs and Stratton will cover any issue. Well the Stat Station does not light up or give me any information.