Head to head
Kohler 20kW RCA vs Briggs & Stratton PowerProtect 18kW
Briggs & Stratton · Home Standby Generator
Briggs & Stratton PowerProtect 18kW
~$5,746
18,000 W · up to whole home with central air
Quick takeThe Kohler 20kW RCA lists about $47 lower; the Kohler 20kW RCA puts out more sustained power (20,000 W); the Briggs & Stratton PowerProtect 18kW is quieter at 68 dB.
| Spec | Kohler 20kW RCA | Briggs & Stratton PowerProtect 18kW |
|---|---|---|
| Approx. price | ~$5,699 | ~$5,746 |
| Type | Home Standby Generator | Home Standby Generator |
| Fuel | NG/LP | NG/LP |
| Running / output watts | 20,000 W | 18,000 W |
| Starting / surge watts | 20,000 W | 18,000 W |
| Battery capacity | — | — |
| Expandable to | — | — |
| Noise | 69 dB | 68 dB |
| Runtime | Continuous (runs on home NG/LP supply); 20kW on LP, 18kW on NG | Continuous (runs on home NG/LP supply); 18kW on LP, 18kW on NG |
| Outlets | None — hardwired via automatic transfer switch (sold separately) | None — hardwired via automatic transfer switch (sold separately) |
| Fuel tank | — | — |
| Weight | 555 lbs | 465 lbs |
| Transfer-switch ready | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 5-year/2,000-hour limited | 7-year comprehensive (parts, labor, travel) |
Highlighted cell is the better figure for that row.
Owner pros and cons
Kohler 20kW RCA
- +Class-leading 41kVA surge starts big AC without load shedding
- +Hydraulic lifters and pressurized lubrication — minimal maintenance
- +Corrosion-proof enclosure suits coastal installs
- +5-year/2,000-hour warranty with 10-year extensions available
- +Priced competitively against Generac's 22kW
- −18kW on natural gas vs 20kW on LP
- −69 dB at full speed is the loud end of the class
- −OnCue Plus app and connectivity feel a generation behind
- −Thinner dealer network slows service scheduling in some areas
- −555 lbs and larger footprint complicate tight side-yard installs
Briggs & Stratton PowerProtect 18kW
- +18kW holds on natural gas with no derate, unlike many rivals
- +45 kVA motor starting handles a 3-4 ton AC without sizing up
- +Warranty includes labor and travel for 7 years
- +Corrosion-resistant aluminum enclosure with Dura-Zen coating
- +16-second Eco-Cise weekly test
- −68 dB is louder than the 65 dB Generac Guardian 18kW
- −Transfer switch, battery and install are extra
- −Fewer installers and parts counters than Generac
- −Owners report slower dealer service in some regions