The one rule
Never backfeed your house by plugging a generator into a wall outlet or dryer plug with a double-male “suicide cord.” It can electrocute you or a utility worker on the lines, start a fire, and destroy your generator when power returns. It’s also illegal.
Your three safe options
| Option | How it works | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Extension cords | Plug appliances directly into the generator with heavy-duty, outdoor-rated cords | Fridge, sump pump with a plug, lamps, chargers — no electrician needed |
| Manual transfer switch | A small sub-panel for chosen circuits, fed from an outdoor inlet box | Furnace, well pump, selected lights and outlets |
| Panel interlock kit | A plate on your main panel that prevents the main breaker and generator breaker from being on at the same time | Flexible: choose any circuits by switching breakers |
Ontario rules in plain language
ESA permit. Installing a transfer switch, interlock or generator inlet is electrical work. In Ontario, the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) requires a permit (notification) for this work, followed by an inspection.
Who can do it. ESA recommends hiring a Licensed Electrical Contractor, who will take out the permit. You can check a contractor’s licence on ESA’s website. Homeowners are allowed to do some electrical work in a home they own and live in, but they must take out the permit themselves — and this is not a beginner job.
Approved equipment. Use a transfer switch or interlock certified for use in Canada and, for interlocks, approved for your specific panel.
Sizing the inlet. Match the inlet and cord to your generator’s outlet (for example, a 30A twist-lock or RV-style connection). Your electrician will confirm what works with your generator.
Using it safely in an outage
- Set the generator outdoors, at least 6 metres (20 feet) from windows, doors and vents.
- Connect the cord to the inlet before starting the generator.
- Turn off the main breaker (or flip the transfer switch to generator) before turning on the generator breaker.
- Turn circuits on one at a time, largest motor first.
- When utility power returns, reverse the steps.
Carbon monoxide warning: Fuel generators must run outdoors only — never in a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or shed, even with doors or windows open. Keep them at least 6 metres (20 feet) from windows, doors and vents, and keep working CO alarms on every level of your home.
Generators that work with an inlet Imported alternative
The Aceup 4000W models have a 30A RV-style (TT-30R) outlet, a common choice for a 120V generator inlet — confirm with your electrician. All three are 120V generators.
| Photo | Product | Type / size | CAD price | Rating | Best for | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Aceup 4000W gas inverter Imported alternative |
Gas inverter · 4,000W starting / 3,200W running | $542.99 CAD | More headroom for a sump pump or furnace blower | Aceup 4000 gas — $542.99 CAD · 4.6★ (393) · Ships from Amazon | |
 |
Aceup 4000W Dual Fuel Imported alternative |
Dual-fuel inverter · 3,200W gas / 3,000W propane running | $650.99 CAD | Propane backup when gas stations are closed | Aceup Dual Fuel — $650.99 CAD · 4.6★ (393) · Ships from Amazon | |
 |
PowerSmart 2500W inverter Imported · budget |
Gas inverter · 2,500W starting / 1,900W running | $386.99 CAD | Fridge + essentials on a budget | PowerSmart 2500 — $386.99 CAD · 4.5★ (1,211) · Ships from Amazon |
Aceup 4000 gas — $542.99 CAD · 4.6★ (393) · Ships from Amazon
Imported alternativeAceup Dual Fuel — $650.99 CAD · 4.6★ (393) · Ships from Amazon
Prices, star ratings and review counts were checked on Amazon.ca on Sep 18, 2026 (ET) and can change. Products marked Imported alternative are not made in Canada.
FAQ
Do I need a permit to connect a generator to my house in Ontario?
Yes. Installing a transfer switch, interlock or generator inlet is electrical work that needs an ESA permit and inspection. A Licensed Electrical Contractor will normally take out the permit for you.
Is it legal to plug a generator into a wall outlet?
No. Backfeeding through an outlet or dryer plug with a double-male cord is illegal and dangerous. It can electrocute utility workers, start a fire and destroy your generator.
Is an interlock kit allowed in Ontario?
Yes, if it is certified for use in Canada, approved for your panel and installed under an ESA permit. Many electricians install interlocks as a lower-cost alternative to a transfer switch.