Level 1 EV Chargers in Canada: A Complete Guide
Written by EV Quotes |
November 2025
- What is a Level 1 EV Charger?
- How Fast Is a Level 1 Charger?
- When is a Level 1 Charger the Right Choice?
- Key Factors for Canadian EV Owners
- Comparing the Best Level 1 EV Chargers in Canada
- At a Glance: Charger Comparison
- Is a Level 1 Charger Right for You?
- Get Your EV Charger Installed by a Professional
If you're a new electric vehicle (EV) owner in Canada, one of your first questions is likely about charging. While powerful Level 2 chargers get most of the attention, the humble Level 1 charger remains a practical and affordable option for many drivers. A Level 1 EV charger is the simplest way to charge your vehicle, using a standard 120V household outlet, the same kind you use for a lamp or a laptop.
Plugging directly into a standard household outlet, a Level 1 charger is the simplest way to begin your home EV charging journey in Canada. It’s an ideal choice for many drivers, especially those in apartments or condos, those with lower daily mileage, or anyone needing a reliable backup.
Read on to learn everything you need to know about Level 1 EV chargers in Canada.
What is a Level 1 EV Charger?
A Level 1 EV charger, often called a "trickle charger," is a portable charging cable that plugs directly into a standard 120V wall socket. Most electric vehicles come with one of these chargers from the manufacturer. Because they don't require any special wiring or professional home EV charger installations, they are the most accessible and budget-friendly charging solution available.
- Voltage: 120 volts (standard household outlet)
- Power Output: Around 1.4 kW to 1.9 kW
How Fast Is a Level 1 Charger?
Level 1 charging is the slowest option, adding about 5 to 8 kilometres of range per hour of charging. This might not sound like much, but it's often more than enough for many Canadian drivers.
Let's break down what that means for daily use:
| Charging Duration | Estimated Range Added |
|---|---|
| 8 Hours (Overnight) | 40 km - 64 km |
| 10 Hours | 50 km - 80 km |
| 12 Hours | 60 km - 96 km |
Since the average Canadian drives about 40-50 km per day, an overnight charge is typically sufficient to replenish the battery for the next day's commute.
Level 1 vs. Level 2 EV Chargers: Which Is Better for You?
| Feature | Level 1 Charger | Level 2 Charger |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 120V (Standard outlet) | 240V (Dryer/Oven outlet) |
| Power Output | 1.4 kW–1.9 kW | 3.3 kW–19.2 kW |
| Range Added Per Hour | 6–8 km | 40–100 km |
| Installation | None required | Professional installation recommended |
| Cost | Often included with EV; $200–$450 to purchase | $500–$1500+ for the unit, plus installation costs |
When is a Level 1 Charger the Right Choice?
While not for everyone, Level 1 EV chargers are an excellent fit for specific lifestyles and situations.
Ideal Use Cases:
- Low-Mileage Drivers: If your daily commute is under 60 km, a Level 1 charger can easily meet your needs by charging overnight.
- Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) Owners: PHEVs have smaller batteries that can often be fully recharged in just 4 to 8 hours with a Level 1 charger.
- Renters or Condo Residents: For those living in multi-unit buildings where installing a Level 2 charger is difficult or prohibited, a standard outlet in a parking stall can be a lifesaver.
- A Reliable Backup: A portable Level 1 charger is perfect for travel, visiting friends, or as an emergency backup if your primary charger isn't available.
When to Consider a Level 2 Charger:
- High-Mileage Drivers: If you regularly drive more than 80 km per day, a Level 1 charger may struggle to keep up.
- BEV Owners with Large Batteries: Fully charging a large battery electric vehicle (BEV) from empty can take over 40 hours with a Level 1 charger.
- Quick Turnarounds Needed: If you need to recharge quickly between trips, a faster Level 2 charger is a must.
Pros and Cons of Level 1 Charging
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Low Cost: Often included with the vehicle, no extra purchase needed. | Slow Speed: Can take 40+ hours to fully charge a BEV from empty. |
| No Installation: Plugs into any standard 120V outlet. | Less Efficient in Winter: Extreme cold can reduce charging speed. |
| Portability: Easy to take with you on the go. | Impractical for High-Mileage Drivers: May not replenish daily use. |
| Battery Health: Slower charging is gentler on the battery over time. | No Rebates: Government incentives typically target Level 2 chargers. |
Key Factors for Canadian EV Owners
When choosing a Level 1 EV charger in Canada, there are a few country-specific factors to consider to ensure safety, reliability, and durability.
Safety Certifications (CSA, cUL, ETL)
For any electrical device in Canada, safety is paramount. Ensure your charger is certified by a recognized body like CSA (Canadian Standards Association), cUL (Underwriters Laboratories of Canada), or ETL. This certification guarantees the charger meets Canadian electrical safety standards and is a requirement for most home insurance policies. Uncertified chargers from online marketplaces pose a significant fire and safety risk.
Performance in Canadian Winters
Cold weather can impact both your EV's battery and the charger itself. Look for chargers with an operating temperature range suitable for Canadian winters (down to -30°C or lower) and a weather-resistant rating (like IP65 or higher) to protect against snow and ice. The cable should also remain flexible in freezing temperatures.
Compatibility and Availability
Nearly all non-Tesla EVs in North America use the J1772 connector, which is standard on these chargers. Tesla owners can use them with an adapter.
Comparing the Best Level 1 EV Chargers in Canada
Let's compare three popular and reliable Level 1 EV chargers available to Canadian EV owners: the Lectron Level 1 J1772, the MUSTART Level 1&2 Portable, and the ClipperCreek PCS-15.
Lectron Level 1 J1772
The Lectron Level 1 charger is known for its affordability and user-friendly features. It's a great entry point for new EV owners or those needing a reliable backup.
- Power and Speed: Delivers 1.4 kW to 1.65 kW, adding 7-10 km of range per hour.
- Build and Portability: Compact and lightweight, it comes with a carrying case, making it easy to store in your trunk.
- Winter Performance: With an operating temperature down to -30°C and an IP65-rated control box, it’s built to handle Canadian weather.
- Safety: ETL listed to UL standards, which is a recognized equivalent to CSA certification in Canada.
- Price: Typically ranges from$189-$224 CAD.
MUSTART Level 1&2 Portable
The MUSTART Level 1 charger offers excellent flexibility by supporting both Level 1 and Level 2 charging, making it a future-proof option.
- Power and Speed: As a Level 1 charger, it performs similarly to the Lectron. However, with a 240V outlet and the correct adapter, it can deliver Level 2 speeds.
- Build and Portability: It has a rugged build, a long 25-foot cable, and an LCD screen showing real-time charging data. It's heavier but still portable.
- Winter Performance: Its IP66-rated charging box and IP67-rated connector offer superior weather resistance, making it one of the best for harsh climates.
- Safety: ETL certified to UL standards.
- Price: Ranges from $200-$250 CAD for the 16A dual-level model.
ClipperCreek PCS-15
ClipperCreek (now part of Enphase) has a reputation for building "bulletproof" chargers. The PCS-15 is a top choice for those who prioritize maximum reliability and safety.
- Power and Speed: Operates at a steady 1.44 kW, adding about 6–8 km of range per hour.
- Build and Portability: Known for its extremely durable, "overbuilt" design. The NEMA 4 enclosure is watertight and ideal for outdoor installations
- Winter Performance: Engineered for North American winters, it operates flawlessly in temperatures down to -30°C.
- Safety: UL-listed and widely accepted as compliant with CSA standards, making it a favorite among electricians.
- Price: The premium build comes at a higher price, typically $300-400 CAD.
At a Glance: Charger Comparison
Is a Level 1 Charger Right for You?
Still not sure? A Level 1 EV charger is likely a great fit if:
- You drive less than 60 km per day.
- You can park and charge your car overnight for 8+ hours.
- You own a plug-in hybrid (PHEV).
- You live in a condo or apartment where installing a Level 2 charger is difficult.
- You’re looking for the most affordable home EV charging solution.
Even if you plan to get a Level 2 charger, a portable Level 1 unit is an excellent backup to keep in your trunk for travel or emergencies.
Get Your EV Charger Installed by a Professional
While Level 1 EV chargers typically don't require professional installation, it's always wise to ensure your home's electrical system is up to the task, especially if you plan to charge outdoors in a Canadian winter. If you decide to upgrade to Level 2, professional home EV charger installation is a must.
EV Quotes makes it easy to connect with licensed, verified electricians in your area. You can get up to three free, no-obligation quotes to find a trusted professional who fits your needs and budget.