We lose power several times each summer and have far more frequent brown outs. I use a 1400VA UPS for the cable modem, router and APEX controller and it runs most of the tanks (sans lights) including return pump and Vortechs for about an hour. The Vortechs have their own battery backup that runs about 6 more hours.

For longer outages, I have a 6500KW gasoline generator that can run the essentials in the home (assuming I'm home to get it plugged in and started.)

I'm currently looking into a whole-house generator. I learned that in addition to the cost of the generator and installation - I'll likely also have to upgrade the gas meter to accommodate the additional flow at an additional $1K