Stay Powered When It Matters Most

Power outages in the Cowichan Valley aren’t just inconvenient—they can be costly, disruptive, and even dangerous in extreme weather. A backup generator offers peace of mind, but one of the first questions we hear is:
“What size generator do I actually need?”

Here’s what to consider when choosing the right backup power solution for your home—and why having a licensed electrician handle the install is key.

⚡ Step 1: Know What You Want to Power

Start by thinking about the essentials you want running during an outage. This will determine how much wattage your generator needs.

Here’s a quick breakdown of typical wattage:

  • Refrigerator: 600-800W
  • Electric furnace: 5,000-25,000W
  • Well pump: 1,000W
  • Sump pump: 750-1,500W
  • Lights: 60-300W per room
  • Router/modem: 50-100W
  • Electric range: 2,000-5,000W

Add it up to get your total expected load. Most households choose a balance between comfort and cost—powering key appliances, lighting, and the internet.

🔌 Step 2: Choose the Right Generator Type

There are two main options:

  1. Portable Generator (Short-Term Use)
  • Typically powers a few items through extension cords or a manual transfer switch
  • More affordable but requires setup during outages
  • Great for small cabins or short-term needs
  1. Standby Generator (Automatic Backup)
  • Permanently installed, kicks in automatically
  • Can power the whole home or just essentials
  • Ideal for rural properties or homes with frequent outages

At Easthom Electric, we often recommend 14kW to 22kW standby generators for most mid-size homes in the Valley.

🧰 Step 3: Hire a Licensed Electrician for Installation

Installing a generator isn’t just about plugging it in. A certified electrician will:

  • Ensure your panel and circuits are set up correctly
  • Install a transfer switch for safe switching between utility and backup power
  • Help you plan for fuel sources (natural gas, propane, or diesel)
  • Set up smart add-ons like remote start or mobile app control

We recently installed a custom 14kW generator with remote start on a Malahat property, allowing full coverage for a caretaker’s suite and essential systems—all controlled easily, even off-grid.

✔ Local Generator Experts, Trusted for Generations

With nearly 40 years serving the Cowichan Valley, Easthom Electric provides clean, professional generator installations for homes, farms, and businesses. We’ll help you plan, size, and wire your system for dependable performance.

📞 Get a quote today: 250.746.4429

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