Winter storms, freezing rain and high winds can take down power lines across the GTA, as the December 2013 ice storm showed. A little preparation keeps your home or business safe, warm and running when the power goes out.
Portable vs standby generators
A portable generator can run a few essential circuits. A standby generator is permanently installed, starts automatically and can power most or all of a building. Either way, the connection to your electrical system matters more than the generator itself.
Connect generators the safe way
- Use a transfer switch or approved interlock. It isolates your building from the utility grid while the generator runs.
- Never backfeed through an outlet. Plugging a generator into a dryer or wall outlet can send power back into the lines and seriously injure utility workers, and it can damage your equipment.
- Have it installed by a licensed electrical contractor. A permanent generator connection needs an ESA notification and inspection.
See generator installation and maintenance.
Carbon monoxide: the hidden danger
Run portable generators outdoors only, well away from doors, windows and vents, and never in a garage, even with the door open. Make sure carbon monoxide alarms are working.
Protect electronics with surge protection
Voltage spikes can occur when power is restored or during storms. A whole-building surge protector at the panel, combined with point-of-use protectors for sensitive electronics, gives the best protection. See surge protection.
When the power goes out
- Check whether the outage is just your building (a tripped main breaker) or the whole street, and report it to your utility.
- Turn off or unplug sensitive electronics and large appliances.
- Leave one light on so you know when power returns.
- Stay well away from downed power lines and call 911 and your utility.
When the power comes back
- Turn equipment back on gradually rather than all at once.
- If water reached your panel, outlets or equipment, do not turn it on: have it checked by an electrician first.
- If breakers keep tripping or anything smells hot, call an electrician.
For businesses
List your critical loads (servers, refrigeration, sump pumps, security, heating controls), put UPS units on IT equipment, and size backup power for what must keep running. We provide backup power solutions and 24/7 emergency service across the GTA.
Talk to a licensed electrical contractor
North York Electrical Inc. has served businesses, facilities and homeowners across the Greater Toronto Area since 1996. We are ESA-licensed (#7011426), insured and WSIB-covered, estimates are free, and we offer 24/7 emergency service, 365 days a year. Call (647) 990-2696 or send us your project details.
