How often should I inspect whole-home power?
Inspect whole-home power at the manufacturer or authority interval, after severe weather or unusual operation, and whenever a documented condition changes.
What this means
Whole-home power covers partial outages, surges, generator concerns, and utility symptoms. Relevant observations include Only part of the home has power, Power goes off and returns, Appliances were damaged after a surge, Generator power seems unstable, Service wires or mast look damaged. The correct response depends on age, design, climate, usage, installation, recent work, and the exact manufacturer instructions; these observations narrow next steps but do not prove a failed part.
Safe checks
- Use the exact manual, warranty, local authority, and service history to set the interval for whole-home power.
- Add a check after severe weather, renovation, long vacancy, or unusual operation.
- Shorten the interval when a condition is changing or has recurred.
Stop and get help if
- Stop for heat, buzzing, arcing, smoke, burning odour, water exposure, damage, or repeated tripping.
- Never remove a cover, work live, or stand in water to reach electrical equipment.
Which professional to call
Use a qualified licensed electrician when the condition exceeds safe user access or the visible checks do not explain it.
Find the relevant tradeSource and method
This answer combines HomeSOS's structured triage with safety boundaries supported by a public source. It does not replace inspection.
Health Canada: Home safetyReviewed August 12, 2026