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Backup power in Windsor

Electricians for generators and transfer switches.

20 pros in Windsor

In Windsor, backup power is tied closely to the local utility, ENWIN. It treats a generator as electrically connected to its distribution system whether it sits upstream or downstream of the meter, so a generator proponent who wants to connect must apply to ENWIN. The customer must also install an isolation device meeting Section 84 of the Ontario Electrical Safety Code, outside and typically near the meter, with access for utility staff. ENWIN does not permit meter socket plug-in emergency back-up transfer devices, so a quote that relies on one should raise questions. Winter adds to the need: the Windsor A station averages 139.8 cm of snow a year, and an ice storm in the wider region has knocked out power to thousands in Windsor. Before you hire, ask who will submit the application to ENWIN, whether the price covers the isolation device and the transfer switch, and confirm that a licensed electrician will connect the generator to your panel.

Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (source, opens in a new tab)

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What to know in Windsor

  • After an ice storm hit the Chatham, Kent and Essex areas, CBC reported about 20,000 customers still without power, with Hydro One having already restored power to 25,000 customers. The storm also downed trees and knocked out power to thousands in Windsor.

    CBC News (source, opens in a new tab)

Before you hire

  1. A generator wired into your home needs an approved transfer switch, fitted under a permit, so it can’t feed power back into the lines. Plan it before you buy.

    Source: bchydro.com (source, opens in a new tab)

  2. Get written quotes from at least three contractors for the same work, and check references from recent clients.

    Source: ised-isde.canada.ca (source, opens in a new tab)

  3. Put it in a written contract: the work, price, deposit, start and finish dates, warranty, permits and clean-up. Paying cash to skip it leaves you no recourse.

    Source: ised-isde.canada.ca (source, opens in a new tab)

Questions about hiring in Windsor

Who is allowed to connect a standby generator to my home's panel in Windsor?

ENWIN's outage guidance says only a licensed electrician should connect a generator to a home's electrical panel. Ask to see the electrician's licence before work starts, and ask who will handle any inspection or paperwork. Do not let anyone wire a generator to your panel without a proper transfer arrangement. ENWIN Utilities Ltd. (source, opens in a new tab)

Do I need to tell ENWIN before installing a generator?

Yes. ENWIN says a generator is electrically connected to its distribution system whether it is upstream or downstream of the meter, and a proponent who wants to connect must apply to ENWIN. Ask your installer whether they will submit the application or whether you must. ENWIN Utilities Ltd. (source, opens in a new tab)

Can I use a plug-in transfer device at my meter socket?

Not in ENWIN's area. ENWIN notes that it does not permit meter socket plug-in emergency back-up transfer devices for residential and small commercial customers. If a contractor proposes one, ask for a different approach, such as a permanent transfer switch installed by a licensed electrician. ENWIN Utilities Ltd. (source, opens in a new tab)

What should a generator quote include?

A written quote should name the generator and transfer switch, describe where each will be placed, and say who handles permits and utility paperwork. It should list what is excluded, the schedule, and the warranty terms. Ask for the same details from each contractor so you can compare quotes fairly.

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