Skip to Content

Charger Installation

Our main focus in on Level 2 EV Charger installations. If an in-home charger was not your first priority after shopping for a new EV, it will certainly be your second. 

Below are the 3 most common types of install:

1. Receptacle installation for plug-in style charger 
  • 14-50R Receptacle installation.
  • Used with mobile chargers, up to 40 Amps (9.6 kW) max.
  • Allows for easy removal of portable chargers.
  • Not necessarily cheaper to install.
  • Certain electrical code relaxation rules do not apply.
  • Useful if you charge in multiple locations with the same charger.
  • More cost effective if a mobile charger came with your vehicle, and you do not want to purchase another one.
  • Requires a GFCI breaker if installed outdoors ($$$).


2. Hardwired charger installation 
  • Hardwired level 2 charger.
  • Wired directly to electrical panel, up to 48 Amps (11.5 kW) typical.
  • Can have up to 80 Amps (19.2 kW) with some models.
  • Power output can be adjusted to accommodate allowable load.
  • Most common installation.
  • Can be mounted indoor or outdoor.
  • A better solution than a plug-in charger. 


3. Hardwired charger with load management 
  • Hardwired level 2 charger with load management.
  • Wired directly to electrical panel, up to 48 Amps (11.5 kW) typical.
  • Charging output power adjusts automatically based on site consumption.
  • Ideal solution for sites with limited available power capacity.
  • Can avoid a costly panel upgrade using this type of system.
  • May have an additional rebate available for EVEMS.
  • Can be mounted indoor or outdoor.
  • Might be the only solution if you have a 100 amp electrical panel. 


Which Charger is right for you?

The list below is not exhaustive by any means, but these units generally have good reviews are all quality units. 

We can install just about any charger you like, including one that you have already purchased yourself. Some new EV purchases will include a shop credit that can be used to purchase a new charger, and you can use the credit to have a unit shipped straight to your door. 

Tesla Universal Wall connector

  • Up to 48A (11.5 kW).
  • Hardwire only.
  • Has group power management functions for multiple chargers on the same circuit. 
  • Universal unit has a J1772 adapter built-in.
  • Can charge NACS or J1772.
  • Adapter locks onto unit for theft prevention.
  • Can be used with a load management unit (Neurio W2) for dynamic power management. 
  • The only logical choice if you own a Tesla. 
  • Use with Cyber Truck to deliver power to your home in the event of an outage. 


We have a few Neurio meters in stock for those looking for a load management system. These devices are notoriously hard to come by, but we do have some!

​​

Emporia Level 2 Charger

  • Emporia Level 2 Charger.
  • Up to 48A (11.5 kW).
  • Hardwire or Plug-in style available.
  • NACS and J1772 versions available.
  • Load management capable.
  • Has great reviews. 


Wallbox Pulsar Plus

  • Wallbox Pulsar Plus.
  • Up to 48A (11.5 kW).
  • Hardwire or Plug-in style available.
  • NACS and J1772 versions available.
  • Can be used with a load management unit.
  • Has group power management functions.


Variablegrid RS40

  • Variablegrid RS40.
  • Up to 40 A (9.6 kW).
  • Dynamic load balancing.
  • NACS and J1772 versions available.
  • Multi-level power management, ideal for condos/townhouse complexes.
  • Bundle with Smart Charger for load management.
  • Wireless connection to power meter reduces install complexity.
  • BC Hydro grant available for load management function.
  • Canadian company based in Vancouver.


Prepare for your charger install

Prepare for your charger install

Specific information is required before an EV charger can be installed. Get a head start by collecting some relevant information first. We can assist with any or all of these items as needed, and it is standard information that is collected during a site assessment. 

 

Electrical Capacity

This is the total amount of power that your building can support, and it's determined by the electrical infrastructure. Examine your electrical panel and find the main breaker, which will indicate the total amount of amps that your panel can distribute. 

 

Peak Demand

The highest rate of electricity use during a period of time. It's the time of day or year when electricity consumption is at its peak, often coinciding with the most extreme temperatures of the year.

By logging into your BC Hydro or Fortis account, you can request a usage history for your building. This information is used to determine exactly how much power you use at a maximum over a 12-month period. There are electrical code rules that allow for using an augmented load calculation in lieu of a standard load calculation and it may be the determining factor to verify that there is enough capacity to accommodate an EV charger. 

Be aware that it may take a day or two for the utility company to provide the historical data. This process can also be slightly more complicated if you live in a townhouse or similar, and you may be required to request historical usage data from your neighbors if the housing units are connected.