Preparing for Your EV Charger Installation in Guelph and the Tri-Cities: Understanding the Necessary Upgrades
So you’re ready to start the process of installing an EV charger at your home. The process isn’t always straightforward, as there may be electrical work required on your home before your electrician can install the charger. In this guide, we’ll explore various EV charger installation options, their associated costs, and the necessary upgrades to ensure a future-proof setup.
Option 1: Standard EV Installation without System Expansion
- Peak Load Usage Report: This report measures the maximum amount of electricity your home uses at any given time. It is a requirement from the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) to ensure your current electrical system can handle the additional load of an EV charger. You obtain this report from your hydro provider and we submit it to the ESA on your behalf. For more information on preparing your home for an EV charger installation, check out our comprehensive guide.
- ESA Approval: We handle the approval process with the ESA to confirm that your system can safely support the EV charger.
- Installation: Once approved, we proceed with the installation of a standard Level 2 (L2) EV charger.
Cost: $500 – $1500
Includes materials and our labour. Does not include the cost of the EV charger.
This option is suitable for homes that do not require an electrical service upgrade to accommodate the EV charger installation. \
Option 2: Install an EV Electronic Management System (EVEMS)
- Load Monitoring: The EVEMS monitors the load coming into your home and controls the EV charger if the load is too high.
- Cost-Effective Solution: Ideal for homes that would otherwise require a service upgrade. The EVEMS provides a workaround to avoid the higher cost of an immediate service upgrade.
- Interim Solution: This is a temporary measure. If you add more high-power appliances or systems in the future, a full-service upgrade will eventually be necessary.
Cost: $1500 – $2500
Includes materials, EVEMS, and our labour. Does not include the cost of the EV charger.
Option 3: Service Upgrade + Standard EV Installation
- Service Upgrade: Upgrade your electrical service to 200 amps, which involves coordination with utilities and the ESA, as well as a panel upgrade.
- EV Charger Installation: Install a standard Level 2 EV charger after the service upgrade.
Cost: $2500 – $5000
Includes materials, service upgrades, and our labour. Does not include the cost of the EV charger.
Many factors influence the overall cost of EV charger installation, which is why there is a large variance in pricing. These factors can include the complexity of the upgrade, the condition of your existing electrical system, the layout of your home, and any additional work required to meet code requirements. We recommend discussing your specific situation with our team to get a precise quote.
Making the Best Decision
At Blais Electric, we are committed to offering future-proof solutions, ensuring your home is equipped for long-term needs. While some options may have a higher upfront cost, they save you money and time in the long run by preventing the need for repeated upgrades. We believe in doing it right the first time, providing you with a reliable and lasting solution.
If you have any questions or need further assistance with EV charger installation options, our team at Blais Electric is here to help. Contact us to schedule a consultation or to get a detailed estimate tailored to your specific needs.
Blais Electric | Guelph, Ontario | 519-766-2940
