We put in a Generac 26 KW generator a couple years ago, natural gas/propane. Seems to be reliable, comes on as required, so far no complaints. Things to consider: not cheap. Generac is proprietary for everything. It has to be their product, oil, filters, heaters...everything, or won't honor the warranty. I've been told they will analyze the oil if the engine fails, to ensure it was their oil. The generator has to be installed by a Generac trained technician/dealer...or warranty is void. Their app is so-so. Techs have to trained at Generac to work on their machines.

Good things, reliability, customer support, they do have an app, trained techs.

We had a power outage, 24 hr+, before we purchased the generator. We live in a remote area, not having power isn't an option (electric medical devices). Plus, we travel, and didn't want to come home to a freezer of rotten meat. Power company admits keeping a consistent grid is challenging due to terrain and staffing. We could have bought solar with batteries, but the overall cost was significantly more than the NG generator. Plus, electricity was less than $90/mo.

Overall, for peace of mind/comfort, no regrets.

I have a 10kW Generac for our house. Had it for about 17+ years. The longest we've been without power once was four or five days. I originally bought the generator as a source of power while building the house but never needed it for that purpose. I have it wired into the power panel thru a transfer panel mostly for some lights, freezer, and refrigerator. They've updated the power lines in the area to resist fires, so there have been less outages in the last couple of years. If I had to replace the generator, I'd go with batteries, since we have solar panels. My second choice would be a diesel generator. Although my set up has worked out well for us, I just don't like air cooled engines for a generator set up.

Many thanks to those weighing in with their experiences. I considered solar, but here in the Willamette Valley...lots of winter days with zero sun, and it's mainly winter when the long power outages happen.

The conractor I've contacted is a local industrial electrical contractor with a good reputation. I'll be sure to ask about brands other than Generac...