Question 1

Do I need a 200A panel for an EV charger?

Accepted Answer

Not always. Many homes with 200A panels have enough capacity for a Level 2 EV charger without any changes. If your home has a 100A panel, you may need an upgrade depending on your existing electrical load. We perform a load calculation to determine what your panel can handle and recommend the best path forward. Give us a call or send a photo of your panel on WhatsApp for a quick assessment.

Question 2

Can you install a Tesla Wall Connector?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We regularly install Tesla Wall Connectors (Gen 3 and newer). We can hardwire the unit to a dedicated circuit, mount it in your garage or outdoors, and handle the permit and ESA inspection. If you already have your Tesla Wall Connector, we can install it. If not, we can advise on purchasing.

Question 3

What's the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 charging at home?

Accepted Answer

Level 1 charging uses a standard 120V household outlet and typically adds about 5 to 8 kilometres of range per hour. Level 2 charging uses a 240V circuit (like a dryer or stove outlet) and adds roughly 30 to 50 kilometres of range per hour, depending on the charger and vehicle. Most homeowners choose Level 2 for the convenience of a full overnight charge.

Question 4

Do I need permits and an inspection for an EV charger in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In Ontario, installing an EV charger on a dedicated circuit requires an electrical permit and an ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) inspection. This ensures the work meets the Ontario Electrical Safety Code. ConnectEV Inc. handles the permit application and coordinates the ESA inspection as part of every installation.

Question 5

My panel is full — what are my options?

Accepted Answer

If your panel has no available breaker spaces, there are a few options. We can install tandem breakers where code allows, add a sub-panel, or upgrade your main panel to a larger one with more capacity. In some cases, a load management device can help make room for an EV charger without a full panel upgrade. We will assess your situation and recommend the most practical solution.

Question 6

Where should the charger be installed — garage or outside?

Accepted Answer

Most chargers are installed inside the garage for convenience and weather protection. However, if you do not have a garage or prefer to charge in the driveway, many EV chargers (including the Tesla Wall Connector) are rated for outdoor use. We handle outdoor installs with weatherproof mounting and outdoor-rated conduit.

Question 7

Can you install a charger in a detached garage?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Detached garage installs require running wiring from your main panel to the garage, often through underground conduit. We handle the trenching, conduit, and wiring to Ontario code, and coordinate the permit and inspection. It is a bigger project, but we do these regularly.

Question 8

Do you install Level 3 / DC fast chargers at home?

Accepted Answer

Level 3 (DC fast chargers) are not typical for residential homes. They require commercial-grade electrical service and are generally found at public charging stations. For most homeowners, a Level 2 charger provides more than enough charging speed for overnight use. If you have a special use case or a commercial/multi-unit property, contact us to discuss options.

Question 9

How long does an EV charger installation take?

Accepted Answer

A straightforward installation is typically completed in a single visit. More complex projects — such as those requiring a panel upgrade, underground wiring to a detached garage, or long conduit runs — may take longer. We will give you a clear timeline before any work begins.

Question 10

Can I install the charger myself?

Accepted Answer

We strongly recommend having a licensed electrician install your EV charger. In Ontario, electrical work that involves adding a new circuit requires a permit and ESA inspection, which must be completed by a licensed professional. A proper installation ensures your safety, protects your home, and keeps your insurance valid.

Question 11

What brands of EV chargers do you install?

Accepted Answer

We install all major residential EV charger brands, including Tesla Wall Connector, ChargePoint Home Flex, FLO Home, Grizzl-E, and others. If you already have a charger, we will install it. If you need help choosing one, we can advise based on your vehicle and electrical setup.

Question 12

What does a panel upgrade involve?

Accepted Answer

A panel upgrade typically involves replacing your existing electrical panel with a new, higher-capacity panel (usually 200A). This includes a load calculation, coordination with your local utility if needed, installing the new panel, transferring all existing circuits, labelling everything, and completing the permit and ESA inspection. We ensure a clean, tidy installation with proper workmanship.

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