Do I need a generator to use the SureConnect Service

Yes, you will need a generator to use the SureConnect Service and the GenerLink™ device. GenerLink™ is an interconnection device that lets you connect a portable generator directly to your home’s electrical panel allowing you to easily use any of your home’s appliances or household devices during a power outage. Therefore, you will need to have a generator for the SureConnect service to work but it is not included in the SureConnect Service package.

What kind of generator do I need?

Not all generators are compatible with the SureConnect Service. Compatible generator sizes range from 3,000 to 8,500 Watts. You can confirm your generator compatibility using the Compatible Generator guide here.

It is recommended the generator have a ‘Floating Neutral’ or ‘Neutral not connected to frame’, or similar markings on the unit. The generator must have a L14-20 or L14-30 plug type (120/240-volt connector). Note: A 14-50 straight connector is not compatible with the SureConnect Service equipment offered by NB Power.

What size generator do I need?

The size of the generator you need is determined by how much power you will require during an outage (i.e. how many appliances you will want to continue to run).  You will want a generator that is between 3,000 and 8,500 Watts; depending on how much power is required to run your largest appliances with motors. (ex. a dishwasher or refrigerator). You can always run your smaller appliances by rotating them off and on at different times.

How is SureConnect different from traditional transfer switches?

The SureConnect Service offers several advantages over traditional transfer switches:

1. Traditional transfer switches might require re-wiring your home’s electrical panel. With the SureConnect Service, a technician installs a GenerLink™ device onto your electric meter which runs a neutral wire from the device to your home’s electrical panel without any rewiring needed.
2. With the SureConnect Service you have the flexibility of selecting the appliances you want to run from your home’s breaker panel,up to the capacity of your generator. Most basic traditional transfer switches have 6 to 8 hard-wired circuits, which limits the number of circuits that you can connect to it.
3. Since the SureConnect Service and GenerLink™ device uses your existing breaker panel, you can run any large 120 or 240-volt appliance up to your generator’s capacity. Your well pump, water heater, and sump pump are just some of the appliances that could potentially be run on a rotating basis with SureConnect (depending on your generator capacity). Many transfer switches and sub panels have only one or two 240-volt circuits rated at 15 or 20-amps. Heavier loads, such as hot water heaters, might not be accommodated by those transfer switches and sub.
4. Take comfort knowing the SureConnect service covers you with free installation, replacement parts and ongoing customer support.

Is there any potential for damaging my appliances?

There is no risk of damage to your appliances created by the SureConnect Service and GenerLink™ device. You should exercise care when selecting your generator to ensure you are buying a high-quality generator.

Who is eligible for SureConnect Service?

• SureConnect service is available in areas of New Brunswick serviced by NB Power.
• Your home must have a code-compliant entrance of 200-Amp or less.
• Your home must have a code-compliant circuit breaker electrical panel (it cannot have a fuse panel).
• Your electric meter and home panel must be considered accessible by NB Power definition.
• Your NB Power account must be in good standing.

How do I subscribe in the SureConnect Service?

Please complete the web form here. Or call us at 1 800 663-6272 for more information.