Thinking about installing a Level 2 EV charger at home? Here's what Toronto homeowners need to know about permits, panel capacity, costs, and choosing the right electrician.
Why Toronto Homeowners Are Installing EV Chargers Now
Electric vehicle adoption in Toronto and the GTA is accelerating faster than almost anywhere else in Canada. With over 50,000 EVs registered in the Greater Toronto Area and new models arriving every month, the demand for home charging solutions has never been higher.
If you're driving — or planning to drive — an electric vehicle, installing a Level 2 home charger is one of the smartest investments you can make. Charging overnight at home is not only more convenient than public charging stations, it's also significantly cheaper. Ontario's time-of-use electricity rates mean overnight charging can cost as little as $2–$4 for a full charge.
Level 1 vs. Level 2: What's the Difference?
Level 1 charging uses a standard 120V outlet — the same type you'd plug a lamp into. It adds roughly 6–8 km of range per hour of charging. For most EV drivers, this is far too slow. A 60 kWh battery (typical of a mid-range EV) would take 40+ hours to charge from empty.
Level 2 charging uses a dedicated 240V circuit — the same voltage as your dryer or electric range. It adds 30–60 km of range per hour, meaning most EVs charge fully overnight in 6–10 hours. This is the standard for home EV charging and what New Toronto Electric installs.
Do You Need a Permit for an EV Charger in Toronto?
Yes. In Ontario, installing a Level 2 EV charger requires an ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) permit. This is not optional — it's the law under the Ontario Electrical Safety Code.
The permit process involves:
- 1A licensed electrical contractor (like New Toronto Electric) pulls the permit from the ESA before work begins.
- 2The charger is installed to code.
- 3An ESA inspector verifies the work meets safety standards.
Hiring an unlicensed contractor or doing the work yourself without a permit is illegal and can void your home insurance. New Toronto Electric handles the entire permit process as part of every installation.
Does Your Panel Have Enough Capacity?
Most EV chargers require a dedicated 40–60 amp circuit. If your home has an older 100-amp panel, you may not have the capacity to add an EV charger without first upgrading your electrical panel.
Signs you may need a panel upgrade before installing an EV charger:
- Your home has a 100-amp service (common in Toronto homes built before 1990)
- Your breaker panel is full with no open slots
- You already have high-load appliances (electric dryer, hot tub, electric range)
- You experience frequent tripped breakers
New Toronto Electric will assess your panel capacity during the free estimate visit and advise whether an upgrade is needed before the charger installation.
How Much Does EV Charger Installation Cost in Toronto?
EV charger installation costs in Toronto typically range from $800 to $2,500, depending on:
- Distance from panel to garage: Longer wire runs cost more
- Panel capacity: If a panel upgrade is needed, add $1,500–$3,000
- Charger model: Customer-supplied vs. supplied by electrician
- Permit fees: Included in New Toronto Electric's pricing
- Conduit requirements: Outdoor runs require weatherproof conduit
New Toronto Electric provides free, written estimates with no hidden fees. Call 647-642-0534 to book yours.
Choosing the Right EV Charger
The most popular Level 2 chargers for Toronto homes include:
- Tesla Wall Connector: Best for Tesla owners; requires Tesla-specific installation
- ChargePoint Home Flex: Compatible with all EVs; adjustable amperage (16–50A)
- Grizzl-E Classic: Canadian-made, extremely durable, ideal for Toronto winters
- Eaton Green Motion: Smart charger with app control and energy monitoring
New Toronto Electric is experienced with all major charger brands and can supply and install the right unit for your vehicle and home.
What to Expect on Installation Day
A typical EV charger installation takes 2–4 hours. Here's what happens:
- 1Our licensed electrician arrives and reviews the installation location with you
- 2The dedicated circuit is run from your electrical panel to the garage or charging location
- 3The charger is mounted and connected
- 4The circuit is tested and verified
- 5ESA permit paperwork is completed
- 6You're shown how to use the charger and app (if applicable)
After the inspection is complete (usually within 1–2 weeks), you'll receive your ESA certificate of inspection — important for insurance and resale purposes.
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