Ok, so you finally did it. You pulled the trigger and made the switch to electric.
Now you’re probably staring at your garage wall thinking, “What the heck do I do next?”
You might be looking at your EV charger that came in the box, but here’s the thing, that basic Level 1 charger? It’s slow and typically takes 40-50 hours to charge a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) and 5-6 hours for a Plug In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV). It’s fine in a pinch, but it’s not built for the daily commute to Toronto or puttering around the GTA.
If you want real convenience that gives you the freedom to plug into your EV, sleep like a baby that has 5 pacifiers around them, and wake up to a fully charged EV by the morning, you’ll need to upgrade to a Level 2 home charger.
And that brings us to the big question:
“How much is this going to cost me to have it installed?”
Whether you’re in a downtown condo, a semi-detached in the suburbs, or somewhere in between, we’re breaking down everything you need to know. We’ll be covering everything from charger types and installation options to permits, electrical work, and total costs.
Let’s plug in and let’s break it down.
Why a Level 2 Home Charger is a Game-Changer.
A level 2 EV charger transforms EV ownership from “wait and hope” to “plug in and go.”
Forget about planning your day around public charging stations, waking up to a half-charged battery because you didn’t leave it plugged in long enough, or having to take the TTC because you forgot to charge your EV the night before.
With a proper Level 2 setup, your car charges faster, smarter, and more efficiently all while you’re fast sleep.
Here’s why Toronto homeowners are upgrading to a professionally installed Level 2 charger:
- Charge 4–10x faster than with a standard 120V wall outlet
- Avoid peak hydro rates with programmable off-peak charging
- Boost your property value with a future-forward feature
- Skip having to hunt for a public EV station
- Enjoy real EV charging convenience by plugging in and playing
Cost breakdown for an EV Install in Toronto.
The cost of a home EV charger installation depends on a few key factors:
The Charger
Level 2 EV chargers typically range from $700 to $1,500, depending on features like Wi-Fi connectivity, amperage, and brand.
Electrical Installation
Having a professional electrician install the wiring, charger, and performing the panel work in Toronto starts around $800 and can go up to $2,000+.
It all depends on the following factors:
- Distance from your electrical panel to the charger location
- Whether your panel has enough capacity
- If trenching or modifications are necessary
- Permit requirements from the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA)
Electrical Panel Upgrades (If Needed)
Some older homes in Toronto or the GTA may require a panel upgrade in order to handle the additional load that the EV charger will be drawing. Some chargers can draw upwards of 16-40AMPS. Ensuring that you have the amperage capicity in your panel is crucial to ensuring that it doesn’t become overloaded if you have multiple high amperage loads running (Stove, Dryer, EV charger, Kitchen appliances, and general outlets and lighting running all at once). This panel upgrade typically costs between $1,500 to $3,000+, depending on service size and complexity.
When it comes to your EV install you might be eligible for rebates or incentives. Don’t worry, we’ll help you explore what’s available and make sure you can put money back in your pocket.
Estimated Total Cost in Toronto
Service | Estimated Cost Range |
EV Charger Unit | $700 – $1,500 |
Installation | $800 – $2,000+ |
Panel Upgrade (if required) | $1,500 – $3,000+ |
ESA Permits & Inspections | Included with install |
Total Investment: Typically between $1,500 – $3,500+
(Depending on your home’s setup)
What to Expect for the Installation Process.
At Toro Electric, we make the process simple, fast, and stress-free.
Here’s how it goes:
Step 1: Site Assessment & Quote
We visit your home, inspect your panel, take our measurements to find out the distance of wire needed, and determine the best charger placement. You get a transparent quote with zero guesswork, and NO hidden fees.
Step 2: Permits & ESA Paperwork
We handle all the ESA permits, documentation, and submit everything so the job is compliant and inspected.
Step 3: Installation
We run a new cable back to your electrical panel, mount and wire your charger, and connect everything in your panel so it is safe and clean workmanship.
Step 4: Test & Walkthrough
We fully test the charger, show you how to use it, connect it to your app (if applicable), and answer every question.
Most installs are completed in half a day to one full day and you’ll be on your way to charging your EV.
So Should You Pull the Trigger on an EV?
If you want the freedom to charge on your own schedule, save money, and make your home EV-ready for the long haul, then yes. A home EV charger is absolutely worth the investment.
It’s about more than just having a higher charging speed. It’s about comfort, convenience, peace of mind, and never relying on public infrastructure that may or may not work when you need it most.
Get Plugged In with Toro Electric
We specialize in residential EV charger installations across Toronto and the GTA. Our team of licensed electricians are here to give you expert guidance, clean installs, and zero-stress service.
Request your free quote today and let’s get your EV charging setup right the first time.