BC has a program that covers $500 to install a home Level 2 EVSE. That pays for half of the unit itself. I am out of pocket for the electrical work, but that was less than $500 for materials and labour.
Eaton Level 2 Charging Station
I just installed an Eaton Level 2 charging station and wanted to post my thoughts on the unit. I chose the Eaton as it was available through Home Depot Canada and was the only one that HD sold here that was for indoor / outdoor installations.
The good:
The not so good:
I wanted to purchase a unit and have it installed by an electrician of my choice, as I found the whole process of contacting a consultant to do a review of my electrical system quite unnecessary and rather expensive. After all there is no magic to a Level 2 EVSE. It is simply a sophisticated GFCI along with a controlled relay that switches off and on the 240 V supply. The on-board controller does communicate with the vehicle and does monitor for over-current situations in order to protect the vehicle, the electrical system and ultimately the end-user. That being said, they should cost more in the vicinity of $500 and the installation is no more complicated that installing a hot tub, so a good electrician can complete the work.
All in all the Eaton is a good choice, is well made and I expect that it will be very reliable. The price on Canada is just under $1,000, which comparatively, is in about the mid range in terms of current pricing for Level 2 EVSE units.
The good:
- Stainless steel housing
- Reasonable mounting bracket
- 24' charging cable
- Sturdy
- Eaton trusted name in power systems
- Good cable magament / storage
The not so good:
- "Intuitive" controls, not so intuitive
- No charging complete indicator
- No stop button (relies on charging cord release button)
- LED illumination an option, but not via Home Depot
I wanted to purchase a unit and have it installed by an electrician of my choice, as I found the whole process of contacting a consultant to do a review of my electrical system quite unnecessary and rather expensive. After all there is no magic to a Level 2 EVSE. It is simply a sophisticated GFCI along with a controlled relay that switches off and on the 240 V supply. The on-board controller does communicate with the vehicle and does monitor for over-current situations in order to protect the vehicle, the electrical system and ultimately the end-user. That being said, they should cost more in the vicinity of $500 and the installation is no more complicated that installing a hot tub, so a good electrician can complete the work.
All in all the Eaton is a good choice, is well made and I expect that it will be very reliable. The price on Canada is just under $1,000, which comparatively, is in about the mid range in terms of current pricing for Level 2 EVSE units.
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