Winter in the South West means storms, and storms mean the power goes out. So every year about now, people around Margaret River start asking us about generators. It’s a good idea. But here’s the bit most folks miss: a generator is only as safe as the way it’s wired in. That’s where a generator changeover switch comes in, and it’s not a job for a mate with an extension lead.
What a changeover switch actually does
A changeover switch (you might hear it called a transfer switch) is the safe link between your generator and your home’s wiring. Flick it over and your generator runs the circuits you’ve chosen, while keeping itself completely separate from the grid. No switch, no safe way to power the house properly. Simple as that.
Why you can’t just plug a generator into a power point
We get asked this a lot, so here’s the straight answer. Running a generator into a wall socket with a double-ended lead (some people call it a suicide cord, which tells you everything) pushes power back down the line. That can electrocute the linesperson out fixing your street, wreck your appliances, and start a fire. It’s also illegal. Connecting a generator to your home has to be done by a licensed electrician, full stop.
What we set up for you
We fit a proper changeover switch at your switchboard and work out which circuits you actually need when the power’s down. Usually that’s the fridge, some lights, a few power points, and for a lot of local places the bore or septic pump. We’ll also help you pick a generator that’s the right size, so you’re not over or under doing it. Then we show you how to use the thing, so there’s no guesswork on the night.
Sort it before the next front rolls through
The best time to do this is before you need it, not in the dark with a torch in your teeth and the footy off. We’ve been keeping homes across Margaret River, Cowaramup and Witchcliffe powered up since 1981, so we’ve seen what a bad storm season does. Give us a call and we’ll get you set up properly, ready for whatever winter throws at us.
