Question 1

How long can a standby generator run continuously?

Accepted Answer

Most residential standby generators can run continuously for 150-200 hours (about 7-10 days) before requiring maintenance, though this varies significantly by model and fuel type.

The continuous runtime of a standby generator depends on several critical factors. Natural gas generators typically offer the longest runtime since they connect directly to your home's gas line, providing an essentially unlimited fuel supply. These units can often run for weeks during extended outages, limited primari

Question 2

How loud is a whole house generator?

Accepted Answer

Whole house generators typically produce 60-70 decibels at 23 feet (7 meters), which is comparable to normal conversation or light traffic noise. The actual noise level depends on the generator size, brand, and installation location.

Generator Noise Levels by Size:
Smaller units (10-16kW) generally run quieter at around 58-65 dB, while larger generators (20-26kW) typically operate at 65-72 dB. Premium brands like Generac's QuietSource series and Kohler's residential units are specifically desig

Question 3

Can I plug a generator directly into an outlet?

Accepted Answer

No, you absolutely cannot plug a generator directly into a household outlet. This practice, called "backfeeding," is extremely dangerous and illegal in Ontario, potentially causing electrocution, fires, and death to utility workers.

When you plug a generator into a regular outlet, electricity flows backward through your home's wiring system and out to the electrical grid. This creates multiple deadly hazards: the power can electrocute Hydro Ottawa workers trying to restore power (they expect li

Question 4

How often should I service my backup generator?

Accepted Answer

Backup generators require regular maintenance every 6 months or after 100-200 hours of operation to ensure they'll start when you need them most. Missing scheduled maintenance is the 1 reason generators fail during power outages.

Routine Maintenance Schedule:
Your generator needs attention twice yearly - ideally in spring and fall before Ottawa's storm seasons. This includes changing the oil (every 50-100 hours), replacing the air filter, checking spark plugs, and testing the battery. The fuel

Question 5

Do I need a permit for a standby generator in Ottawa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you absolutely need an ESA permit for standby generator installation in Ottawa. Installing a standby generator involves new electrical circuits, transfer switches, and connections to your home's electrical system - all of which require permits and professional installation under the Ontario Electrical Safety Code.

What requires the permit isn't just the generator itself, but the complete electrical installation. This includes running a new dedicated circuit from your electrical panel to th

Question 6

Do I need a transfer switch for a generator?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you absolutely need a transfer switch for a generator in Ontario. It's not just recommended - it's required by the Ontario Electrical Safety Code and ESA regulations for any generator connected to your home's electrical system.

A transfer switch is a critical safety device that prevents your generator from back-feeding electricity into Hydro Ottawa's power lines, which could electrocute utility workers or damage equipment. When the power goes out, the transfer switch safely disconnects you

Question 7

Can a generator damage my electronics?

Accepted Answer

Yes, generators can absolutely damage your electronics if not properly installed or if you're using the wrong type of generator. The biggest risks come from power quality issues like voltage fluctuations, frequency instability, and "dirty" power that can fry sensitive devices like computers, TVs, and smart home systems.

Portable generators are the biggest culprits for electronics damage. These units often produce unstable power with voltage spikes and drops that can destroy anything with microp

Question 8

Can I run my furnace on a portable generator?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can run most furnaces on a portable generator, but it requires careful planning and proper setup to do it safely. The key is having the right generator size and a safe connection method.

Most residential gas furnaces need between 600-1500 watts to start up and 300-800 watts to run continuously. The blower motor creates the biggest power demand, especially during startup when it can draw 2-3 times its running wattage. Electric furnaces, however, require much larger generators (10,000+ w

Question 9

How much does it cost to install a whole home generator in Ottawa?

Accepted Answer

Whole home generator installation in Ottawa typically costs between $8,000 and $25,000, depending on the generator size, fuel type, and electrical work required. The wide range reflects differences in generator capacity, installation complexity, and whether your electrical panel needs upgrading.

Generator costs break down into several components. The generator unit itself ranges from $4,000 for a basic 14kW natural gas unit to $12,000+ for larger 24kW models. Installation labor typically adds $

Question 10

What size generator do I need to run my whole house?

Accepted Answer

The size generator you need depends on your home's electrical load, but most Ottawa homes require a 15-20kW generator for essential circuits or 20-30kW for whole-house backup. To determine the exact size, you'll need a licensed electrician to calculate your home's actual electrical demand.

Understanding Generator Sizing

Generator sizing isn't just about your panel's amperage - it's about calculating your actual electrical load. A 200-amp panel doesn't mean you need a 200-amp generator, since y

Question 11

What is the cost of installing a transfer switch for a generator?

Accepted Answer

Installing a transfer switch for a generator in Ottawa typically costs between $1,500 and $4,000, depending on the size and type of switch needed. The total cost includes the transfer switch unit, installation labor, ESA permit, and inspection fees.

Manual transfer switches are the most affordable option, ranging from $1,500 to $2,500 installed. These require you to manually switch between utility power and generator power during an outage. They're suitable for smaller portable generators (5,00

Generators & Backup