Electric Vehicle Charger, the GTA

Save money on gas with an electric vehicle by having an electric vehicle charger installed.

Electric Vehicle Charger, the GTA

Getting around in the GTA has never been easier with the electric vehicle, but stopping to re-fill for long periods of time can be inconvenient. With an electric vehicle charger installed into your home, you can charge at your convenience at any time. Many who own a charging station often leave their vehicles charging overnight, not only reducing the cost and the time spent waiting, but being able to drive around in the day hassle-free. Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation lists the hundreds of dollars saved per year driving an electric car compared to a gasoline car, and notes that less than $530 per year is spent on charging. At night when the cost of electricity tends to be the lowest, the cost of charging at home can amount to as low as $1.45 per day.

Every electric vehicle comes with a standard cord set that allows you to top-up anywhere as long as there is an electrical outlet, but the most common and efficient way to charge is via a level 2 charging station. With 1 hour of charging, you are provided with 30-50 km of driving range. Any licensed electrician can install a charging station into your home, provided that your electrical service and panel can accommodate the addition. With government rebates and incentives, installation has become more affordable, ranging from a few hundred dollars up to $1000 depending on the layout of your garage or driveway.

For an indoor installation, the charging station is plugged into a 240-volt wall outlet, not unlike a clothing dryer or a stove. Although it’s a bit more expensive, this type of charging station is portable and easier to repair or replace. For homes without a garage or without room to store your vehicle inside, an outdoor installation will be necessary, with a hardwired charging station that utilizes an interior electric connection (similar to a ceiling fan). Outdoor charging stations are usually accompanied by a holster and are weatherproof.

Contact MADE ELECTRIC for more information, to learn more about electric vehicle charging, and to inquire about having an electric vehicle charger installed in your home! We operate within the GTA to ensure that your vehicle and your home are functioning at the highest possible capacity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much is public charging compared to charging with an electric vehicle charger at home?

Costs can vary at public level 2 charging stations, but in Ontario are usually $1/hour or $2.50/charge. Public level 3 charging stations are pricier at $15/hour for quicker charging and longer trips. Wait times can be long, however. In comparison, the typical cost of charging at home is $1.45 per day with the added convenience of leaving your car to charge without having to worry. Many find the trade-off negligible and worth the installation.

What features can I expect from my electric vehicle charger?

Some charging stations come with additional features, such as Wi-Fi connectivity. This allows you to track your vehicle’s charging via an app, where you can schedule and control charging remotely. Although these features bump up the price of the charging station, the added convenience can be worth the premium, depending on what you’re looking for.

Does the location of my electric vehicle charger matter?

Since you’ll likely be charging your vehicle on a daily basis, the location of your electric vehicle charger is one of the most important considerations to make. The most common cable length that charging station manufacturers provide is either 16 or 25 feet. Before installation, keep in mind your parking situation, as this can affect your overall experience.