MILWAUKEE - Rheem Manufacturing and Briggs & Stratton Power Products Group LLC have announced an agreement to offer a Rheem-branded standby generator through its HVAC distribution network.

This new turnkey residential standby generator program combines Briggs & Stratton's Power Products Group's product development, manufacturing, and generator expertise with Rheem's HVAC sales, installation, service, and parts distribution network.

"This new line of Rheem home standby power products reinforces our commitment to provide innovative home comfort solutions that deliver superior value, high efficiency, and peace of mind," said Art Berg, parts marketing manager, Rheem Heating and Cooling Division.

"We're well known for providing the most technologically advanced, energy efficient heating and cooling products on the market today, so the decision to offer a line of high-efficiency home standby generators to homeowners is a natural extension to our business," he said. "Additionally, it adds value to everyone in the HVAC distribution chain - distributors, dealers, and consumers alike."

Equipped with a whole-house power management system, the premium Rheem home back-up power generator system is said to incorporate advanced computer controls that efficiently and quietly manage the same essential, high-wattage appliances as a larger liquid-cooled standby generator nearly twice its size while using less fuel. And, according to the companies, it does so at a significantly reduced cost.

"The system's advanced controls will safely power both essential and high-wattage appliances - including up to two 4-ton air conditioners - any time a power outage occurs," said Scott Alderton, vice president of marketing, Briggs & Stratton Power Products Group.

HVAC systems and home standby power installations require many of the same professional skills and disciplines, from sizing and installation to service and support, which Berg sees as a distinct advantage for Rheem versus other standby generator channels.

"Proper selection and installation of central heating and cooling products requires extensive training and industry expertise," Berg said. "Central comfort systems are different for every home, so for them to function safely and efficiently requires a trained professional. The same is true for standby power generator installations. So consumers looking for a worry-free, turnkey home standby power generator installation should demand expert service, the type of service they've come to expect from the Rheem brand distribution network."

Briggs & Stratton Power Products Group is a major manufacturer of generators. For more information, visit www.homegeneratorsystems.com. Rheem is a leading manufacturer of central heating and cooling products. For more information, visit www.rheemac.com.

Publication date: 03/12/2007