Review of the Briggs & Stratton PowerSmart Series P2400 Portable Inverter Generator

Should You Buy It?

This looks like an attractive option particularly if you are looking for mobility in a portable generator for recreational use. But it may also be a useful source of power for relatively brief periods when you are faced, for example, with a power outage. Briggs & Stratton are one of the few brands that incorporate in their models a technology that warns you of high levels of carbon monoxide being produced by the generator. While this is very welcome, it should not lull anyone into thinking they can use a portable generator in an enclosed space.

As for whether you might consider this model a candidate for your money, the answer is essentially yes. It is generally well-priced and has a reasonable level of features.

Key Points about the Briggs & Stratton P2400

Overview of the Generator

This is one of the smaller and less powerful models in Briggs & Stratton's PowerSeries line-up.

The P2400 is an inverter whose main market is among those who enjoy casual camping, tailgating and other recreational activities. But it should not be discounted for other uses such as providing you with some limited home backup when faced with an emergency or power outage.

Controls and Features

The control panel is basic but functional and contains a minimum of switches and controls. Like many of its competitors, there is no fuel gauge, making it harder to know how much fuel is left. Nor is there an hour meter to monitor total run time hours to help you keep to the specified maintenance schedules.

This model is equipped with what the company call QPT - Quiet Power Technology. This is essentially another name for an Eco mode, like that fitted to comparable inverters. It adapts engine speed automatically for quieter operation, uses less fuel when fewer items are connected and helps to extend engine life.

There is a limited set of receptacles for some basic essentials, including a dual USB adapter. As an inverter, the power output is clean and free from fluctuations, so you won't have any problems connecting your delicate electronics.

You can connect this model in parallel, but only to another P2400 or a P3000. If you go down this route note that you'll have to use Briggs & Stratton's proprietary connectors.

The manual for the P2400 can be seen here.

This is one of the few generators to incorporate a carbon monoxide protection, which the company call CO Guard™ Carbon Monoxide Shutdown. The technology automatically shuts down the generator when it detects harmful levels of carbon monoxide accumulating in the generator's operating area. On the face of it, this is a useful addition, but it doesn't mean that you are free to operate it anything other than in the open air.

Power Output

The specifications say this unit is powered by a 79cc engine pumping out 2400 starting watts and 1800 running watts.

Be aware, however, that the real available outputs will depend on where you live because temperature and altitude have a material impact on what a generator is able to deliver.

What Most Buyers Like

Many buyers see this as an attractive alternative to the more expensive Yamahas and Hondas. The few who have reviewed it all have been happy with their purchase. 

What Some Buyers Like Less

There are very few reviews for this model, none of which can act as a guide over any problems it may or may not have.