Briggs & Stratton PowerProtect DX 20kW (040657) vs Kohler 26RCAL 26kW with ATS
The Kohler 26RCAL 26kW with ATS is the more powerful unit: 26,000 running watts against 20,000 — about 23% more capacity for the Kohler 26RCAL 26kW with ATS. The Kohler 26RCAL 26kW with ATS is the quieter of the two (67 dBA vs 68 dBA — though manufacturers measure noise at different loads and distances). Warranty favors the Briggs & Stratton PowerProtect DX 20kW (040657): 10 years vs 5.
| Briggs & Stratton PowerProtect DX 20kW (040657) | Kohler 26RCAL 26kW with ATS | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | home-standby | home-standby |
| Fuel | natural-gas, propane | natural-gas, propane |
| Running watts (gas / LP for standby) | 20000 W | 26000 W |
| Running watts (propane) | 20000 W | 26000 W |
| Running watts (natural gas) | 20000 W | 24000 W |
| Noise level | 68 dBA | 67 dBA |
| Output voltage | 120/240V | 120/240V |
| Automatic transfer switch included | No | Yes |
| Main-line circuit breaker | 100 A | — |
| Start type | automatic | automatic |
| Engine | Briggs & Stratton Vanguard | Kohler CH1006 |
| Engine displacement | 993 cc | 999 cc |
| NG use at half load | — | 180 ft³/h |
| Propane use at half load | — | 2.34 gal/h |
| Weight | 520 lb | 625 lb |
| Warranty | 10 yr | 5 yr |
Frequently asked questions
Which is more powerful, the Briggs & Stratton PowerProtect DX 20kW (040657) or the Kohler 26RCAL 26kW with ATS?
The Kohler 26RCAL 26kW with ATS, at 26,000 running watts on its best fuel versus 20,000 W. Remember that dual-fuel and natural-gas ratings are lower than gasoline ratings — the comparison table shows the published per-fuel figures.
Where do these specifications come from?
Every record on BackupAtlas is hand-curated from manufacturer documentation and spec sheets, and each generator page links to its source document.