Briggs & Stratton 30708 Spec Review

Description

Zoom on the Briggs & Stratton 30708

In summary, the Briggs & Stratton 30708 is a portable generator especially useful for:

• RV travellers wishing to enhance their freedom and nomad lifestyle
• People occasionally participating in outdoor fairs, festivals or events
• 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 who want to be able to deliver results, even during a power failure

In the sections ahead, the power characteristics, availability of various outlets, the portability, and any additional features of the device shall be discussed, including its emission compliance information.

Power & Run Time

The Briggs & Stratton 30708 is powered by a 389 cc Briggs & Stratton OHV 4-stroke engine. It delivers 120/240V, runs on gasoline and offers a running wattage of 5750W as well as a peak wattage of 7185W.

This generator gets running thanks to a simple traditional pull-start mechanism.

With a full tank, the 30708 can operate for around 11.5 hours at 50% load (fuel consumption around 0.65 GPH), thanks to its fuel capacity of 7.5 gallons.

Outlets

The control panel features the following 7 AC outlets:

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

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)

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

As it features a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, the 30708 is transfer switch ready: in case of a power outage, you will be easily able to connect it to a breaker box and power your household.

Portability

The dimensions of the Briggs & Stratton 30708, which are L29 x W21.5 x H25.5 in, and its typical, open frame design provides stability and enables the generator to be raised above ground level. The design is ideal for rough environments and demanding outdoor use.

Even though this device may be technically portable (as in movable), manipulation and transportation without special equipment can be a challenge, as it weighs 190 pounds. However, this lack of maneuverability is compensated by its wheel kit (⌀10") and its folding handle, with which you can conveniently shift it, once it's on the ground.

Features

The 30708's control panel

The control panel of the 30708 includes a digital data center, which assists you in monitoring its status and activity, as it provides information on the lifetime run hours.

The generator includes a built-in fuel gauge, a quick, easy and convenient method of checking the device’s gas level.

As far as security is concerned, the generator can be used with a peace of mind, as it features an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker).

Besides the usual set of documentation and owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to get you promptly started, Briggs & Stratton also included some oil in the 30708's packaging.

Emissions

The Briggs & Stratton 30708 is neither EPA approved nor CARB-compliant..

However, it features a spark arrestor and thus, may be used in forested areas.

The Briggs & Stratton 30708 versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Briggs & Stratton 30708 compare to generators of similar power (between 5500 and 6500 W).

• With a dry weight of 190 pounds, the Briggs & Stratton 30708 finds itself in the expected weight range for generators able to produce between 5500 and 6500 rated watts. If weight matters to you, one of the champions in this power range is the Pulsar G65BN with only 126 pounds.
• The 30708, falls within the average autonomy range compared to generators of a roughly same power, with a run time of around 11.5 hours at a 50% load and a full tank. 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.
• Even though run times are undoubtedly important, they are dependent on the fuel capacity to a large extent. For a more wholesome picture, we must take into consideration the fuel consumption of the generator. This generator is rather wasteful, compared to other devices within the aforementioned output range, when it comes to gasoline consumption, as it reaches roughly 0.65 GPH at a 50% load. If you wish to acquire one of the most gasoline efficient products of this power range, the Lifan ESI 7000iER-EFI, with a fuel consumption of 0.38 GPH could be in your good books.

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 30708 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

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