Last updated: November 13, 2026
General information only
The content on CottageWatts is general information about backup power, heating and rural utilities in Canada. It is not electrical, engineering, HVAC, emergency-planning, legal or financial advice, and it doesn’t create a professional relationship of any kind.
Electrical and fuel safety
- Never backfeed your home through a dryer outlet, wall receptacle or “suicide cord.” It can energize lines that utility crews believe are dead.
- In Ontario, a transfer switch, interlock kit or standby generator connection should be installed by a licensed electrical contractor with a permit from the Electrical Safety Authority.
- Fuel-burning generators produce carbon monoxide. Run them outdoors only, away from doors, windows and vents, never in a garage, and keep working CO alarms in the home.
- Follow the manufacturer’s manual for every product, including its temperature limits.
Rebates and prices change
Rebate programs, eligibility rules and product prices change, and programs can end early. We show the date each guide was last checked and link to the official source, but we can’t guarantee every page is current when you read it. Confirm with the program administrator and get pre-approval where it’s required before you buy or install anything.
Your responsibility
Every home is different. Decisions about equipment, wiring, fuel and heating depend on your property, so get professional advice before acting. CottageWatts and its author aren’t liable for any loss arising from use of this site.
External links
We link to government, manufacturer and retailer websites for reference. We’re not responsible for their content. Some links may be affiliate links; see our Affiliate Disclosure.