Ottawa experiences an average of 4–6 significant power outages per year, with major events (ice storms, windstorms, severe thunderstorms) causing extended outages lasting 12–72+ hours. The May 2022 derecho left parts of Ottawa without power for up to 10 days. The January 2025 ice storm caused 3-day outages across the west end. For Ottawa homeowners, a power outage means more than inconvenience. In winter, heating systems fail within hours, allowing pipes to freeze and potentially burst — a sing...
Portable generators ($500–$3,000): Gasoline or dual-fuel (gas/propane) units that you wheel out and connect manually during outages. Power output: 3,000–10,000 watts. Powers essentials (fridge, sump pump, furnace fan, lights, devices). Requires manual start, fuel storage, and extension cords or manual transfer switch. Brands: Honda, Generac, Champion. Inverter generators ($800–$4,000): Quieter, cleaner power than standard portables. Safe for sensitive electronics. Power output: 2,000–7,500 watt...
Essential circuits only (most popular): Powers furnace/heat pump fan, refrigerator, sump pump, well pump (if applicable), basic lighting, and a few outlets. Requires 7,500–12,000 watts. A Generac 10kW standby generator ($4,500–$6,000 for the unit) handles this load and is the most popular choice for Ottawa homeowners. Essential plus comfort: Adds central AC, microwave, washing machine, and more lighting circuits. Requires 14,000–20,000 watts. A 16–20kW standby generator ($5,500–$9,000 for the u...
Electrical permit: Required for all generator installations in Ottawa. The Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) must inspect the installation. Your licensed electrician handles the permit application and scheduling. Gas permit: Required for natural gas generator connections. A licensed gas fitter (G2 or G1 license) must install the gas line. The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) regulates gas work in Ontario. Placement requirements: Standby generators must be placed at least 5 feet ...
A standby generator for essential circuits costs $8,000–$14,000 fully installed. A whole-home generator powering all circuits costs $15,000–$25,000+ installed. Portable generators cost $500–$4,000 for the unit without installation.
Most Ottawa homes need 10–16kW for essential circuits (furnace, fridge, sump pump, lights, outlets). A 22kW+ unit powers the entire home. If you have a gas furnace, a smaller generator suffices since the furnace fan only draws 500–800 watts.
Yes. An electrical permit (ESA inspection) is required for all generator installations. Natural gas connections also require a gas permit (TSSA regulated). Your installer handles both permit applications.
If your Ottawa home has Enbridge natural gas service, choose a natural gas generator — unlimited fuel supply during outages. Rural homes without gas service should use propane with a 250–500 gallon dedicated tank.