What Type of EV Charger Do I Need for My Home?

What Type of EV Charger Do I Need for My Home?

Most Ontario homeowners who buy an electric vehicle install a Level 2 home charger — a 240V unit hardwired or plug-connected to the electrical panel. The choice of charger depends on your vehicle’s onboard charger capacity, your daily driving distance, and whether your electrical panel can support the added load.

Level 1 vs. Level 2 Charging

• Level 1 (120V standard outlet): Adds approximately 8 km of range per hour of charging — enough for vehicles driven under 50 km/day if plugged in overnight. No installation required beyond a dedicated 120V circuit near the parking space. Not practical for longer daily commutes or larger battery EVs
• Level 2 (240V dedicated circuit): Adds 25–50 km of range per hour depending on the charger amperage and the vehicle’s onboard charger. Fully charges most EVs overnight regardless of daily driving distance. Requires a 240V circuit — typically 40A or 50A — installed by a licensed electrician

Choosing a Level 2 Charger

• 32A charger (7.2 kW): The most common residential choice. Charges most EVs (Tesla Model 3, Chevrolet Equinox EV, Hyundai IONIQ 6) at their maximum onboard charger rate overnight. Requires a 40A dedicated circuit
• 48A charger (11.5 kW): Needed for vehicles with an 11 kW or larger onboard charger (some Tesla models, Ford F-150 Lightning). Requires a 60A dedicated circuit. Faster charging is the benefit; most homeowners do not need this speed for overnight use
• Smart chargers vs. basic: Smart Level 2 chargers (ChargePoint, JuiceBox, Tesla Wall Connector) can be scheduled to charge during off-peak Ontario time-of-use hours, reducing electricity costs. A basic dumb charger starts immediately when plugged in

EZSMART installs Level 2 EV chargers for all vehicle brands across Ontario, including panel upgrades when the existing service cannot support the added load. Contact us to assess your panel capacity and recommend the right charger and circuit for your vehicle and home.

Amir Azimipour

Electrician Since 2008 Journeyman Electrician Designated Master Electrician at EZSMART Corp