Learn About Chargers

Did you know that over 80% of electric vehicle (EV) charging happens at home? Charging at home is not only the most cost-effective but also often more convenient. When you drive an EV, enjoy the convenience of simply plugging in upon arriving home. Unlike gas-powered vehicles which need regular trips to the gas station, EV drivers can charge hassle-free overnight while their car is parked, and wake up to a fully charged vehicle, ready for the day ahead.

Charging time depends on your EV’s battery size and the charger type. Your EV has an onboard converter that converts your home’s current so that it can be used to charge the EV’s battery. The converter has a maximum power acceptance rate, which limits the charging speed, regardless of the rated power of your EV charger. Read further to learn about the different types of chargers or use our EV Calculator tool to try different combinations of charging schedules, charger types, and rate plans to find the best charging solution for you. 

Types of EV Chargers

An EV can charge at different power levels, which affects how quickly the vehicle's battery charges. EV chargers are grouped into three categories: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3/Direct Current Fast-Charging (DCFC).

Level 1 (L1) charging is an affordable and simple option, using a standard 120volt (V) outlet found in homes. Most EVs come equipped with a portable 120V cord set, enabling drivers to charge their vehicles almost anywhere, but L1s come with limitations.

While L1 charging requires minimal setup. It’s a low-power device that charger EVs slowly, making it suitable for EVs with small battery capacity (e.g. plug-in hybrids), those who drive short distances, those that have several hours (8+ hours) to charge between trips, or as a backup solution kept in the trunk of your car while traveling.

Rated Power: Level 1 chargers deliver a power output of 1.4 kW to 3.3 kW (12-30 Amps) at 120V, adding around 5 to 8 kilometres of range per hour of charging. Most of us drive less than 60 kilometres per day, so in many cases, daily L1 charging may be adequate. It offers a cost-effective and convenient charging experience without the need for significant electrical upgrades.

If you need faster charging, you'll want to upgrade to a Level 2 charger. Explore our EV Calculator to estimate your time savings and find out how a Level 2 charger can better suit your driving habits.

Level 2 (L2) charging offers a balance of speed and convenience, making it ideal for homes, businesses, and workplaces. L2 chargers provide higher power output, charging your EV much faster compared to Level 1 chargers, and often include smart features like scheduling, energy monitoring, and remote access.

Rated Power: L2 chargers operate on a 240-volt circuit, with a power output ranging from 3.3 kW to 19.2 kW (16 - 80 Amps). L2 chargers can typically fully charge an EV in a few hours (4 to 6 hours, depending on the battery size) providing 30+ kilometres of range per hour depending on the rated power level of the charger.

When selecting an L2 charger, consider costs besides the charger itself ($500 - $1,500), such as installation, permits, and potential upgrades to your home’s electrical panel or service. Installation usually requires a dedicated 240V outlet.

Depending on your home’s existing electrical capacity, a service upgrade might be necessary. You must consult a licensed electrical contractor to assess your home’s electrical capacity to support a L2 charger. Consider implementing an Energy Management System (EMS) or smart panels if a service upgrade is potentially required. These options can dynamically manage your home’s overall electrical load, providing power for EV charging without requiring extensive, costly service upgrades. Refer to our Charging Ahead: A Homeowner’s Guide to Installing a Level 2 EV Charger.

Level 3 chargers, also known as DC fast chargers (DCFC), are the most powerful EV chargers currently available. They can fully charge an electric vehicle in under an hour, depending on factors such as the EV’s battery capacity and the charger power output.

Typically located at public charging stations, these chargers are strategically placed in high-traffic areas, along highways, rest stops, and near shopping centers. Due to their significant infrastructure requirements and high-power demands, DC fast chargers are suited for public installations where they get regular use. They require 3-phase power, which is not available in residential settings.

Canada boasts an extensive EV charging infrastructure, making it convenient for you to charge vehicles on the go. Explore the Public Charging Map to find chargers near you or plan your next trip with ease.

Buying & Installing an EV Charger

When installing a home charger, understanding your charging requirements and your homes electrical capacity is crucial. Explore the sections below to discover key factors to consider and the available options to ensure a safe and reliable EV charging experience. Was this useful?

Before You Buy
Installation Planning

1. Assess Electrical Readiness: Have a licensed electrical contractor check your home’s electrical panel capacity (amp space and load). Consider an Energy Management System (EMS) or smart panels to manage load and possibly avoid upgrades.

2. Understand Costs & Fit: Look at the purchase price, installation cost and/or monthly fees. Choose a charger based on your EV, home’s capacity, and driving habits to avoid overspending. Use the EV Calculator to help you evaluate.

3. Purchase a Certified Charger: Confirm the charger is certified for use by checking for a certification mark approved by Electrical Safety Authority (ESA).

Wanting to install a Level 2 EV charger, and wondering if you need an electrical panel upgrade or an electrical service upgrade to your home? It's important to have a licensed electrical contractor assess your home’s capacity to handle the additional electrical load, so that you’re making an informed and safe choice.

Refer to our Charging Ahead: A Homeowner’s Guide to Installing a Level 2 EV Charger.