Switching to an electric vehicle (EV) is one of the smartest and most eco-friendly decisions you can make today. But before you start enjoying the convenience of charging at home, there’s an important step you can’t skip — installing a proper EV charger in your garage.
At Okla Électrique, our Residential Electricians have helped hundreds of Quebec homeowners install safe, efficient, and code-compliant charging stations. Whether you drive a Tesla, Nissan Leaf, or any other electric vehicle, your charger setup can make a big difference in your charging time, safety, and long-term energy efficiency.
Here’s everything you need to know before installing an EV charger in your garage.
1. Know Your EV Charger Levels
Not all EV chargers are the same. Before you invest, it’s important to understand the three main levels of chargers available in Canada:
Level 1: Standard Plug-In
This is the basic option that uses a standard 120V household outlet. It’s slow — usually providing around 5 to 8 km of range per hour of charging — which means a full charge can take over 24 hours.
✅ Best for: Hybrid owners or those who drive very short daily distances.
❌ Limitations: Not ideal for daily EV use due to slow charging.
Level 2: Dedicated Home Charger
This is the most popular and practical choice for home use. A Level 2 charger operates on a 240V circuit (similar to an oven or dryer) and can fully charge most EVs in 4 to 6 hours.
Level 2 chargers require professional installation by a licensed electrician to ensure safety and compliance with Quebec’s electrical standards.
✅ Best for: Full EV owners who drive daily.
⚡ Bonus: Many homeowners qualify for provincial rebates when installing certified Level 2 chargers.
Level 3: DC Fast Charger
These are industrial-grade chargers typically found at public stations. They operate on high-voltage DC current and can charge an EV up to 80% in 30 minutes. However, they’re not suitable for home installation due to high costs and power requirements.
✅ Best for: Commercial or fleet applications.
❌ Not designed for residential garages.
2. Assess Your Electrical Panel Capacity
Before installing an EV charger, your electrician will need to check your electrical panel to ensure it can handle the additional power load.
Older homes in Quebec often have 100-amp panels, which may not support a 240V charger without tripping breakers or overloading circuits. In that case, an electrical panel upgrade might be necessary.
At Okla Électrique, our electricians evaluate your current setup, calculate your home’s total load, and recommend whether an upgrade is needed before installation. A modern 200-amp panel provides enough capacity to support not only an EV charger but also future upgrades like electric heating or solar panels.
⚙️ Expert Tip: If your panel is older than 20 years or frequently trips, upgrading it before installing a charger ensures both safety and reliability.
3. Choose the Right Charger Location
Where you install your EV charger matters for both convenience and safety.
Most homeowners choose to install the charger inside the garage, ideally near the area where the car’s charging port aligns easily. If your garage layout doesn’t allow for easy cable reach, outdoor wall-mounted options are also available — with weatherproof casings designed for Quebec’s climate.
The certified electricians at Okla Électrique ensure that your installation follows all local regulations for clearance, ventilation, and accessibility. We also make sure the cable is long enough for flexible parking positions.
📍 Expert Tip: Measure your vehicle’s cable reach before installation to avoid future frustration when parking at different angles.
4. Understand the Permits and Codes
In Quebec, EV charger installations require electrical permits and must meet strict standards set by the Corporation des maîtres électriciens du Québec (CMEQ).
This isn’t a DIY project — improper installation can void warranties, cause safety hazards, or even risk electrical fires.
By hiring Okla Électrique, you ensure your charger installation is fully compliant with provincial electrical codes. We handle everything — from permit applications to final inspection — giving you complete peace of mind.
📄 Expert Tip: Avoid hiring unlicensed contractors. Only certified electricians can perform legal EV charger installations in Quebec.
5. Know Your Charging Speed and Circuit Size
A Level 2 charger’s speed depends on the amperage rating of both the charger and your home’s electrical circuit.
Here’s a general guide:
- 30 amps = ~30 km of range per hour
- 40 amps = ~40 km per hour
- 50 amps = ~50 km per hour
Most homeowners find that a 40-amp circuit provides the best balance between cost and efficiency.
Our Residential Electricians will calculate your vehicle’s specific power needs and configure your installation accordingly. We also ensure the circuit breaker, wiring gauge, and outlet type match the required load — ensuring optimal performance and safety.
6. Plan for Smart Features
Modern EV chargers aren’t just about power — they’re about intelligence.
Smart chargers allow you to:
- Schedule charging sessions during off-peak hours
- Monitor energy use via mobile apps
- Receive alerts if something goes wrong
- Integrate with smart home systems
At Okla Électrique, we install smart chargers that sync with your Wi-Fi, helping you track energy costs and even take advantage of time-of-use electricity pricing.
📱 Expert Tip: If you already have a smart home system (like Google Home or Alexa), ask us about integrating your charger into your automation network for seamless control.
7. Consider Weatherproofing and Cable Protection
Quebec winters can be harsh, and not every charger is built for sub-zero temperatures. If you’re installing your EV charger outdoors or in an unheated garage, choose a charger rated for cold-weather operation.
Okla Électrique installs units with NEMA 4-rated enclosures, meaning they’re protected from snow, ice, and rain. We also add protective conduit to prevent cable damage and ensure long-term durability.
❄️ Expert Tip: Always keep cables off the ground in winter to prevent freezing or tripping hazards.
8. Estimate Your Installation Costs
While costs vary based on your home’s layout and panel condition, here’s a general overview of what to expect:
| Installation Type | Approximate Cost (CAD) |
| Basic Level 2 install (short distance to panel) | $800 – $1,200 |
| Complex install (long wiring, wall drilling, etc.) | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Panel upgrade (if needed) | $1,500 – $3,000 |
💰 Expert Tip: Check the Hydro-Québec “Roulez Vert” rebate program, which can refund up to $600 for eligible residential installations.
9. Think About Future-Proofing
Even if you have one EV today, plan your installation with the future in mind.
A 200-amp panel and 50-amp circuit allow for dual charging setups, meaning you can add another EV or plug-in hybrid down the road without needing another major upgrade.
At Okla Électrique, we future-proof your installation — ensuring the setup remains efficient and flexible for years to come.
🔋 Expert Tip: Opt for a wall-mounted charger with a detachable cable — it makes maintenance and upgrades easier later.
10. Hire Certified Electricians You Can Trust
Your EV charger installation is an investment — one that directly affects your home’s safety and efficiency. That’s why it’s essential to trust certified electricians who understand Quebec’s local standards and the latest EV technologies.
At Okla Électrique, our team of Residential Electricians is fully licensed, insured, and certified to install all major EV charger brands. We handle the entire process — from evaluating your panel and securing permits to testing the charger and ensuring every connection is secure.
Our goal is simple: make your transition to electric driving seamless, safe, and sustainable.
Final Thoughts: Charge Smart, Charge Safe
Installing an EV charger in your garage isn’t just about convenience — it’s about investing in your home’s value, safety, and future. With the right setup, you’ll enjoy faster charging, lower energy bills, and peace of mind knowing your system meets every safety standard.
Whether you’re upgrading your home’s electrical panel, planning for an EV, or exploring smart energy solutions, Okla Électrique is here to help.
⚡ Trust the experts who power Quebec homes safely and efficiently — every single day.
Need a Quote?
Book your free site visit with Okla Électrique today and get a detailed estimate for your EV charger installation.
📞 Serving Ahuntsic, Montreal, Laval, and the Greater Quebec area.