Ocean to Outback · WA EC16326
Generator Changeover Switches in Perth Hills
A changeover switch lets a generator supply your home or shed safely during a power outage, without feeding electricity back into the network. In WA it must be installed by a licensed electrical contractor. OTOLEC is a generator changeover electrician based in Chidlow, serving the Perth Hills and rural WA.
Licensed electrical contractor
WA EC16326
Locally based
Chidlow, Perth Hills
Metro & rural WA
Homes, business, farms
Emergency callouts
Free quotes
No obligation
Why it matters
Plugging a generator into a power point, or using a modified lead, can send electricity back through the switchboard into the network. That puts you, your neighbours and line workers at risk. A permanently wired changeover switch keeps the generator and the grid apart, so the generator only supplies your installation while the network is off.
Outages on rural lines
Western Power says many regional customers are supplied by a single long feeder line running through bushland and farmland, and that storms and fires can delay repairs until it's safe to work. A changeover switch gives you a safe way to run essential circuits from a generator while you wait.
What's included
- Talking through what you want to run: the whole property or essential circuits only
- A changeover switch installed at or beside the switchboard it controls
- Labels on the switchboard and affected circuits
- Lodging the required notices with the network operator, and an Electrical Safety Certificate
- Testing the changeover in both positions
Choosing a generator
Look for the Australian Standard mark (AS2970 or AS3010) on the generator, check it suits the load you plan to run, and always run petrol or diesel generators outdoors in a well-ventilated spot, away from windows, because of carbon monoxide. Switch appliances on one at a time rather than all at once.
Ready to talk through your job?
How it works
01
Call or request a quote
Start with a call or your contact details. We discuss the service, your location and the work involved. Quotes are free and without obligation; urgent electrical concerns should always be raised by phone.
02
Arrange a visit
Confirm availability, access and what needs assessment. Mention equipment, planned changes and any constraints that affect attendance. We'll arrange a time that suits you.
03
Agree the work
The existing installation and proposed scope are assessed before the work proceeds. Discuss any changes to the requirements so the job reflects your property and the electrical work that is actually needed.
04
Tidy up and test
Completion includes attention to the work area and testing of the electrical work performed. Ask any questions about the installed fittings, controls or repair before considering the job complete.
Based in Chidlow
Find your local service
Based in Chidlow, OTOLEC services homes, businesses and rural properties across the Perth Hills, Perth metro and rural Western Australia. Choose your suburb below to read about the service locally, or call about a location not listed. Coverage and attendance are discussed for your actual job.
Your questions answered
Can I just plug my generator into a power point?
No. WA safety guidance is clear: don't plug a generator into household power points or connect it to the wiring. It can feed electricity into the network. A changeover switch is the safe way to do it.
Who can install a generator changeover switch?
A licensed electrical contractor. For permanently connected generators the switch goes at the main switchboard. OTOLEC holds WA Electrical Contractor Licence EC16326.
Does the work need to be notified?
Yes. Installing on-site generation is notifiable work in WA, so your generator changeover electrician lodges a Preliminary Notice and a Notice of Completion with the network operator.
What about switches that connect the generator and grid at the same time?
Western Power treats "make-before-break" switching as embedded generation, which has its own connection requirements. We'll talk through the right setup for your property.
Do you travel to Perth Hills for generator changeover switches?
Yes. OTOLEC services the Perth Hills, Perth metro and rural WA from Chidlow.
Official guidance
Related services
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Let’s talk about your job.
Call 0435 591 549Emergency and after-hours callouts: call to confirm availability.
- Licensed WA EC16326
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- Obligation-free quotes