Briggs & Stratton 30681 Spec Review

Description

Zoom on the Briggs & Stratton 30681

In a nutshell, the Briggs & Stratton 30681 is a portable generator mostly geared towards:

• RV travellers wishing to enhance their freedom and nomad lifestyle
• People occasionally participating in outdoor fairs, festivals or events
• Food van owners who know that just a short power outage could lose them hundreds of dollars
• Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
• Professionals in need of safely powering high-intensity work or lighting equipment

The following sections will present you in detail its power characteristics, the different outlets it offers, its overall portability, the extra features it benefits from, and any relevant emission compliance details.

Power & Run Time

The Briggs & Stratton 30681's core is the 342 cc Briggs & Stratton OHV 4-stroke engine, which runs on gasoline. With an output of 120/240V, it provides a running wattage of 5000W and a peak wattage of 6250W.

The generator features a simple traditional pull-start mechanism.

Thanks to a fuel capacity of 7 gallons, the 30681 can operate for around 12.5 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.56 GPH).

Outlets

The control panel features the following 5 AC outlets:

Two Duplexes 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI

120/240V 30A (L14-30R) receptacle

Since the 30681 bears a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, it is transfer switch ready: it is easily connectible to a breaker box and can power your home in case of a power outage.

Portability

With its dimensions of L29 x W25 x H27 in, the conventional, open frame design of the Briggs & Stratton 30681 offers stability and allows the generator to be raised above ground level. This type of design is ideal for tough environments and heavy outdoor use.

As the generator's weight is 171 pounds, manually moving it or transporting it may be challenging, despite the fact that it is technically considered 'portable' (movable). Nevertheless, it can still be moved quite conveniently with the help of its wheel kit (⌀10") and its folding handle, once it is placed on the ground.

Features

The 30681's control panel

The fuel level of the generator can be determined quickly, easily, and conveniently with the help of its built-in fuel gauge.

From a security point of view, the generator is equipped with an overload protection (circuit breaker), giving you a peace of mind during use.

Accessory-wise, along with the previously mentioned features, the Briggs & Stratton 30681 is packaged with the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), helping you start the device right away.

Emissions

The Briggs & Stratton 30681 is CARB-compliant. It can therefore be sold and purchased in all 50 states, including California.

Moreover, it features a spark arrestor and therefore, can be used in forested areas.

Product Video

The Briggs & Stratton 30681 versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Briggs & Stratton 30681 compare to generators of similar power (between 4500 and 5500 W).

• Since the generator weighs in at a dry weight of 171 lbs, the Briggs & Stratton 30681 belongs in the expected weight range for devices which can produce between 4500 and 5500 rated watts. If you are concerned by weight, one of the champions in the above mentioned power range is the Westinghouse WGen5300v, with a dry weight of just 107 pounds.
• With a run time of around 12.5 hours at 50% load, the 30681 has one of the higher run times, compared to its similarly powerful peers. Furthermore, considering the run times, one of the generators which have a roughly same power output, with the highest autonomy, is the Cat RP5500, as it provides around 15 hours.
• Run times are important, yet thanks to their dependence on the fuel capacity, they should be judged along with the fuel consumption of the device. As this generator uses an estimated 0.56 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 50% load, it finds itself in the average gasoline consumption range of similar products. If you are concerned with gasoline efficiency, having a fuel consumption of just 0.35 GPH, the Westinghouse WGen5300v is a device you should look out for.

Price comparison

The bottom line

Unlike many websites, we did our best to research each of the specs above. That being said, we are not immune to making the occasional mistake or omission. Should you notice any missing or incorrect values, don't hesitate to suggest improvements so we can address the issue.

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 30681 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

Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.