Level 2 Charging Station
EV Charger Installation
A change is coming fast
Whether we like it or not, a change is coming to Canada in how we transport from place to place. As gas prices increase and more manufactures pledge to be fossil fuel free, it is inevitable that soon almost everyone will be driving pure electric or a form of hybrid electric vehicle. Pro Trade Electric can come assess your homes electric capabilities and provide options to get your electric vehicle charging faster and ensure it is done safely.
Types of EV Chargers
There are 3 levels or vehicle chargers on the market currently. One other very important factor to consider is the size of your homes electric supply and its ability to provide enough power to your homes needs and vehicle simultaneously. See below for a breakdown of the 3 levels.
Level 1 Chargers
A level 1 charger uses a home’s standard outlet and provides a very slow rate of charge. In Ontario, these 120 volt outlets are required to be 20 Amp rated.
Level 2 Chargers
Level 2 chargers can easily charge a vehicle overnight and add up to 45km per hour of charge. On average most electric vehicle owners do 80% of their charging at home, thus making a level 2 charger the most popular option for homeowners when charging electric vehicles. Electric vehicle charging equipment can be plugged into a special outlet or hardwired directly, depending on the amperage of the charger. Plug in has an advantage if you have a cottage or second home and can save you the money of purchasing a second charger.
Level 3 Chargers
Level 3 EV chargers are extremely fast and can recharge an electric vehicle’s battery to 80% in only 30 minutes. Level 3 chargers are not possible to install for a home due to the type of electric supply in residential areas.
What charger is right for you?
This largely depends on your day to day driving habits and type of electric vehicle you drive. Hybrid or Pure Electric? Level 1 can work under certain circumstances but a level 2 charger provides much more flexibility due to its much faster charging time.
Do I need a service upgrade?
The answer to this question requires some investigation by a certified electrician. A demand calculation will need to be performed on your home. This is calculated by asking you a few simple questions and checking your existing electrical system loads. However, if you have a 100 Amp service, then more than likely you will need to upgrade your service and panel. Even if you are not required to upgrade, you can ask yourself these questions:
- Will I be purchasing a second electric vehicle in the near future?
- Are you planning on installing a pool, hot tub or sauna?
- Are you considering selling in the next few years?
- Will the Utility company allow me to upgrade?
Our team can help you through the process and don't worry if upgrading is not an option or not in the budget. It is always the preferred best option to upgrade your service but there is other methods of installation if this can't be done. Load management of your existing service to ensure safe operation is an acceptable method of installation if upgrading is not an option. Of course this load shed technology has a cost associated with it and it may potentially temporarily limit the charge rate to the vehicle if your homes electrical consumption gets too high.
When Pro Trade Electric comes to your home, we will help with the following:
- Complete a demand calculation to verify that your home can support a level 2 charger
- Provide or help you choose the proper charger for your vehicle
- Upgrade your electrical system if needed
- Install all equipment according to Ontario Electrical Safety Code
- Provide you with an option for Main Panel Surge Protection to protect your investment
- And more...
Pro Trade Electric will take care of everything needed to get your vehicle charging, including all necessary permits and requesting site surveys from the utility company, if an upgrade is required. Call us today and experience the difference with Pro Trade Electric!
Kawartha & Harcourt
Durham Region
GTA