Generator Installation Cost in Ontario
Keep your home powered during Ontario's winter storms and summer blackouts. Learn about backup generator costs, from portable units to whole-home standby systems. All prices in Canadian dollars.
Get Free Quote: +1 866 565 5427Power outages in Ontario are becoming more frequent due to severe weather, aging infrastructure, and increased demand. A backup generator ensures your family stays safe and comfortable during blackouts — keeping your furnace, sump pump, refrigerator, and essential devices running.
From portable generators to fully automatic whole-home standby systems, there's a solution for every budget and need.
Types of Backup Generators
Portable Generator
3,000 - 10,000 watts
$500 - $3,000
Manual start, gasoline powered. Powers essentials. Requires manual setup and connection during outage.
Standby Generator (Partial)
10,000 - 16,000 watts
$6,000 - $12,000
Automatic start, natural gas/propane. Powers essential circuits. Automatic transfer switch included.
Whole-Home Standby
20,000 - 48,000 watts
$15,000 - $30,000
Powers entire home. Natural gas or propane. Automatic start within seconds of outage.
Generator Installation Costs
Generator installation involves more than just the unit itself. You'll need a transfer switch, electrical connections, gas line (for standby units), concrete pad, and permits.
Installation Cost Breakdown (CAD)
Transfer Switches Explained
A transfer switch is a critical safety device that isolates your home from the utility grid when running on generator power. This prevents backfeeding, which can injure utility workers and damage equipment.
Types of Transfer Switches:
- Interlock Kit ($400-$800): Allows you to manually switch between utility and generator power at your main panel. Budget-friendly option for portable generators.
- Manual Transfer Switch ($800-$1,500): Dedicated switch panel with selected circuits. Flip a switch to power essentials.
- Automatic Transfer Switch ($1,500-$3,000): Detects power outage and automatically starts generator and transfers load. Required for standby generators.
Note: In Ontario, ESA requires a proper transfer mechanism for any generator connection. Direct connection without a transfer switch is illegal and dangerous.
Do You Need a Panel Upgrade?
Many Ontario homes may need a panel upgrade before generator installation, especially for whole-home standby systems.
You May Need a Panel Upgrade If:
- Your current panel is 100 amps or less
- Your panel is a fuse box (not breakers)
- There's no space for transfer switch breakers
- You're installing a whole-home standby generator
- Your panel is outdated or in poor condition
A 100A to 200A panel upgrade typically costs $1,400 - $1,800 CAD and is often done simultaneously with generator installation.
View Panel Upgrade Pricing →Generator Fuel Types
Gasoline
Most affordable upfront. Requires manual refueling. Fuel degrades over time. Best for occasional, short outages. Typical runtime: 8-12 hours per tank.
Natural Gas
Connected to your home's gas line. Unlimited fuel supply. No refueling needed. Slightly lower power output than propane. Most popular for standby generators.
Propane (LP)
Higher power output than natural gas. Requires propane tank installation. Better for rural areas without natural gas. Long shelf life.
Dual Fuel
Can run on natural gas OR propane. Maximum flexibility. Switch between fuels if one runs out. Ideal for uncertain fuel availability.
Generator Brands We Install
We install and service all major generator brands. Our electricians are trained and certified on these systems.
Quick Reference: Generator Pricing
Portable + Interlock Kit
Budget option. Manual startup. Powers essentials (furnace, fridge, sump pump, lights).
Portable + Transfer Switch
Better convenience. Dedicated circuits. Manual startup but easy switching.
Standby Generator (Partial)
Automatic startup. Powers essential circuits. Natural gas. Most popular choice.
Whole-Home Standby
Powers entire home. Automatic. Premium peace of mind. Includes all installation.
Generator Installation Service Areas
KoljiBros Electrical installs backup generators across the Greater Toronto Area and Southern Ontario.
Get Your Free Generator Quote Today
Don't wait for the next blackout. KoljiBros Electrical can help you choose the right generator for your home and budget. We handle everything — sizing, installation, gas connection coordination, permits, and ESA inspection.