Charging stations for electric vehicles: Purchase and installation in a house or condo

Purchasing and installing a 240V charging station

A variety of manufacturers, including several from Quebec, offer home charging stations for electric vehicles (EVs). There are two types, wall mounted and pedestal mounted, and most can be installed indoors or out. But this requires a separate 240V circuit connected to the home’s electrical panel. In Quebec, the Construction Code requires that electrical work be performed by an electrical contractor licensed by Régie du bâtiment du Québec—like the members of CAA-Quebec’s network of Approved Residential Suppliers.

What amperage should I choose?

Most home charging stations require 30 amps to deliver 7.2 kilowatts of power. Many vehicles have internal chargers capable of handling this maximum electrical output. Keep in mind that a vehicle with a 400 km range will take about 9 hours to fully charge on this type of station.

A 15-amp station (increasingly rare) limits the power to 3.6 kilowatts, doubling the charging time. Conversely, a 40-amp station (delivering 9.6 kilowatts of power) can cut that time by a third, provided the vehicle can handle the additional power.

Before choosing, also determine whether you need a programmable station or if your vehicle’s configuration options make this unnecessary. Pay particular attention to the materials: choose a robust cabinet and flexible wiring that can withstand the cold, especially if you plan to install your station outside.

How much does a home charging station cost?

A charging station will run you $800 to $1,500 depending on its quality and the options you choose. Be sure to factor in installation by a master electrician. Some master electricians can sell you home charging stations, and so can dealers and electrical retailers. Obviously, you should expect these costs when you purchase an electric car.

Home charging station rebate

The Quebec government offers financial assistance when you purchase a new 240V home charging station. Some municipalities have programs that can help you save even more. Look into it!

To receive these amounts, you must provide proof of eligible expenses and meet a series of conditions, including owning or leasing an electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle.

Renovating or building a home? Think EV!

The day is not far off when adding a charging station will be mandatory for all new residential construction. Get a jump on it! If you’re considering a new build or major renovation, plan ahead to accommodate a charging station.

Charging stations and safety

Nervous about handling such a high-voltage device? Don't worry: charging stations have a GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) to reduce the risk of electric shock.

Also, the pins on the plug are energized only when the plug is properly inserted into the vehicle’s socket, and the coupler is weather sealed. Lastly, a retaining device prevents disconnection if the cable is accidentally pulled.

Want to charge your vehicle at home without a charging station?

You can! All electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles marketed in North America come with an SAE J1772 connector, so they can be charged on a home’s 120V or 240V AC current.

Charging your electric car on 120V

While charging a fully electric car on 120V is easy, it’s really not practical because it takes so long— roughly 70 hours to fully charge a vehicle with a 400 km range! This may be fine for plug-in hybrids, but fully charging one with an 80 km range would still take up to 12 hours. That’s why you should consider charging from a regular outlet at home as a backup rather than an everyday solution.

Installing a charging station in a condo or apartment

If you live in a condo or an apartment, you’ll need your condominium syndicate’s or landlord’s permission and cooperation to purchase and install a charging station for your electric vehicle. They will likely see it as a way to add value to the building. And who knows, your neighbours might be interested in chipping in with you!

You’ll need to hire a licensed electrician, just like for a charging station installed at a house. Charging stations installed in multi-unit buildings may also qualify for a government rebate. But unlike for the residential grant, you don’t have to own an electric vehicle to qualify.

Buying a new condo?

Some buildings are already equipped with electrical systems that can accommodate 240V charging stations. Some technologies even let you add the electricity used for your EV to your residential account without making any changes to the electrical supply. Something to look into!