Which brands make the best natural gas generators?
Top natural gas generator brands include some of the most respected names in the power industry, known for quality and reliability:
| Brand | Known For |
|---|---|
| Generac | Market leader in light-duty standby systems; integrated smart load management and user-friendly controls. Also offers commercial NG gensets up to mid-size ranges. |
| Cummins | Commercial and industrial-grade generator systems (Cummins owns the Onan brand as well). Renowned for robust engines and a global service network. |
| Kohler | Quiet operation and sophisticated backup power automation; strong presence in light commercial standby market with very reliable units. |
| Caterpillar (CAT) | Heavy-duty prime and standby solutions; CAT natural gas generators power many large facilities and are known for durability and high-hour performance. |
| MTU/Detroit Diesel | High-performance generators for continuous use; MTU (formerly part of Detroit Diesel/Rolls-Royce Power Systems) produces large natural gas gensets for industrial applications. |
For marine or offshore installations, confirm whether the proposed model holds valid DNV, Lloyd’s Register, or ABS certification and consult the manufacturer about corrosion resistance, vibration isolation, and enclosure protection standards (IP44 minimum recommended for salt environments).
The best brand often comes down to application: for light use, Generac and Kohler are top choices; for mission-critical industrial use, Cummins, CAT, and MTU are frequently preferred.
Depco’s inventory includes used and rebuilt generators from many of these manufacturers. All units are load tested, inspected, and supported by our team. We evaluate top brands based on their real-world performance so we can supply reliable power solutions to our customers.
Related Questions
Who makes the most reliable natural gas generator?
Reliability can depend on specific models, but Caterpillar and Cummins have long-standing reputations for extremely reliable industrial generators. Their natural gas units are often found in hospitals and utilities where uptime is critical. For light commercial use, Kohler and Generac standby generators are both considered reliable when properly maintained.
It’s also important to have good service support. A reliable generator is one that not only has solid engineering, but also accessible parts and service when something does need attention. For prime power in oil & gas and marine fleets, average annualized fuel and maintenance cost per kWh should be calculated and benchmarked against utility rates and critical downtime costs.
Which commercial natural gas generators are the quietest?
When low noise is a priority (for example, a generator located near offices or in a hospital setting), look for sound-attenuated enclosures and higher-grade mufflers on the generator. Among brands, Kohler is known for engineering quiet-packaged generators for commercial use. Cummins and Generac Industrial also offer models advertised as low noise, often meeting strict municipal noise ordinances (with levels around 65 dB at 7 meters, for instance). Often, it’s not just the brand but the optional sound enclosure and exhaust muffling that determines noise levels. To get the quietest setup, work with the manufacturer or supplier to add a level 2 or level 3 sound enclosure. In our experience, a properly enclosed Cummins or Kohler 150 kW natural gas genset can be surprisingly quiet – barely audible inside a building.
Are rebuilt generators from top brands worth it?
Yes, a rebuilt generator from a top brand can be great value. High-quality brands like CAT, Cummins, or Generac have engines that are very rebuildable – meaning with new parts and proper machining, they can be restored to like-new performance. Buying a rebuilt unit can save a lot of money (often 30-50% off new) while still providing the reliability of a proven design. The key is to purchase from a reputable rebuilder. Depco, for example, load tests every rebuilt generator we sell and provides documentation of the rebuild work. When done right, a rebuilt generator set gives you essentially the lifespan of a new unit at a fraction of the cost, making it worth it for budget-conscious projects.
Many industrial facilities and marine fleets document average generator lifespans and costs: In multi-generator hospital microgrids using Cummins and CAT, mean time between major service calls averages 2,500–3,000 hours over 5–7 years, while achieving compliance with annual emergency power code load banking. Performance may vary based on location, loading profile, and adherence to preventive maintenance best practices.
Explore Depco’s inventory of rebuilt and used natural gas generators, or contact our team for help selecting the right unit for your needs. Our experts are here to ensure you get a reliable power solution tailored to your requirements.
