Champion manual transfer switches and power inlet boxes

The Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) says a generator connected permanently to a home's wiring must have a transfer device, because the device stops the generator from feeding power back onto the utility lines. That connection needs a notification of work filed with ESA, and ESA recommends a licensed electrical contractor for the installation. Champion's switch manuals carry a separate wiring section for Canadian installations that refers to the Canadian Electrical Code. A generator plugged into a wall outlet has no such protection and puts line workers and neighbours at risk.

All four product pages list the cETLus mark, and the two inlet box pages also say CSA listed, so every row shows as listed for Canada. The switch pages add UL 1008, and in the switch manuals the label of the inlet box packed with each switch names CSA C22.2 No. 42. Check the generator's 240 V outlet before choosing. The 30 A switch and box take a cord from an L14-30R outlet, and the 50 A pair takes a cord from the generator's 50 A outlet. A GenerLink at the meter is the other common way to connect a portable generator, and it needs a short meter pull arranged with the utility.

The Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) notification of work is filed before the work starts. When the installation is done, ESA inspects it and issues a Certificate of Acceptance once it passes. Where the unit burns natural gas or propane, a licensed gas fitter makes the gas connection. Where a meter or a service entrance switch is involved, the local utility does its part of the work.