When installing a plug-in EV charger, it is easy to focus only on charging speed. However, the quality of the receptacle, wiring and electrical connections is just as important.

An EV charger can operate at a substantial electrical load for several hours at a time. That is why GO Electrical uses materials selected specifically for the demands of EV charging rather than treating the installation like an ordinary appliance receptacle.

In the installation shown in our video, we used a heavy-duty EV-grade receptacle and #6 copper armoured cable to create a durable charging connection inside the garage.

What Is an EV-Grade Receptacle?

Many plug-in Level 2 EV chargers connect to a 240-volt receptacle, commonly a NEMA 14-50R.

Although different 14-50 receptacles may have the same general shape and electrical rating, they are not necessarily built to the same standard of construction. Heavy-duty EV-grade receptacles are designed specifically for the extended charging periods and repeated plug insertions associated with electric vehicles.

Depending on the manufacturer, an EV-grade receptacle may include features such as:

• Heavy-gauge copper contacts
• Higher contact pressure
• Reinforced construction
• Heavy-duty mounting components
• High-torque conductor terminals
• Terminal designs that provide greater contact with the conductor

For example, Leviton describes its heavy-duty 14-50R as being designed specifically for plug-in EV charging, with heavy-gauge copper contacts and high-torque terminal connections. Hubbell similarly describes its EV receptacle as having industrial-grade construction and a clamping system intended to provide a secure conductor connection.

Why Does Receptacle Quality Matter?

EV charging is different from briefly operating many other household appliances.

A vehicle may charge continuously for several hours, placing sustained demand on the receptacle, plug and conductor connections. A poor or loose electrical connection creates resistance, and resistance produces heat.

A standard 50-amp receptacle has a high chance of failure, simply because it was not designed for the purpose of EV charging. That is why we prefer to install a product designed and approved for that application.

The receptacle must also be installed according to the manufacturer’s requirements. This includes using compatible conductor sizes, preparing the conductors correctly and tightening the terminals to the specified torque.

Using a premium receptacle cannot compensate for poor installation. The product and workmanship both matter.

What Is Mechanically Protected Wiring?

The wiring method also needs to suit the environment where the charger or receptacle will be installed.

Garages can expose wiring to:

• Stored tools and equipment
• Shelving and workbenches
• Bicycles and recreational equipment
• Vehicle movement
• Accidental bumps and impacts
• General wear from everyday use

For the installation featured in our video, we used #6 copper armoured cable. Electricians often refer to this type of cable as BX.

The metal armour surrounding the conductors adds a layer of physical protection and creates a clean, durable wiring method for an exposed garage installation. Ontario’s Electrical Safety Authority requires EV charging equipment and associated wiring to be protected from mechanical damage where the location creates that risk. The appropriate method depends on the specific layout and installation environment.

Is #6 Armoured Cable Required for Every EV Charger?

Not in every case. Depending on the charger, conductor type and installation conditions, a smaller conductor may be permitted.

At GO Electrical, however, we choose to use #6 copper conductors for our EV charging circuits as our standard practice.

One reason is that EV charging is a sustained electrical load. On a 50-amp circuit, smaller conductor sizes can be operating close to the upper end of their permitted capacity depending on the wiring method and conductor rating. By using #6 copper, we provide additional capacity rather than designing the circuit as close as possible to the minimum requirement.

It also gives the homeowner more flexibility for the future. If charging equipment is replaced or upgraded later, having a more robust branch circuit already installed may reduce the amount of electrical work required.

We also use armoured cable for our EV installations whenever it is suitable for the location. EV chargers are commonly installed in garages or immediately outside of them, where wiring can be exposed to tools, shelving, vehicles, stored equipment and everyday impacts. The metal armour provides an additional layer of mechanical protection around the conductors.

For exterior installations, we typically use #6 TECK90 cable. TECK90 provides the mechanical protection we want while also being rated for wet and outdoor environments when installed appropriately.

This is not because every EV charger is required to use #6 armoured cable. It is a workmanship standard we have chosen for our installations because it provides a durable circuit, added mechanical protection and greater flexibility for future charging needs.

Receptacle and Breaker Requirements

For cord-connected EV chargers using either a NEMA 14-50R or 6-50R receptacle, the Electrical Safety Authority requires the receptacle to be protected by a 50-amp overcurrent device.

The receptacle, breaker, wiring and charger must be treated as one complete system. Installing a 50-amp receptacle does not automatically mean that every charger can operate at 50 amps. The charger must be configured according to the circuit rating, applicable electrical requirements and manufacturer’s instructions.

Plug-In or Hardwired EV Charger?

Both plug-in and hardwired EV chargers can be good options when installed correctly.

Benefits of a plug-in charger

A plug-in charger can be:

• Easier to remove or replace
• Convenient when moving homes
• Compatible with certain portable charging units
• Useful when the receptacle may serve a future approved purpose

Because the receptacle and plug add another connection point to the circuit, the quality of the receptacle and its installation are especially important.

Benefits of a hardwired charger

A hardwired charger:

• Eliminates the receptacle and plug connection
• Can provide a clean, permanent installation
• May support higher charging outputs, depending on the equipment and circuit
• Can be a practical choice when the charger will remain in place

The best option depends on the vehicle, charger, garage layout, electrical capacity and the homeowner’s future plans.

A Proper EV Installation Is More Than Just Adding an Outlet

An EV charger is a significant electrical load. A proper installation should include more than simply mounting a receptacle and connecting it to the panel.

Before beginning the work, GO Electrical reviews:

• Your electrical service capacity
• The condition and available space in your panel
• The charger’s electrical requirements
• The proposed cable route
• The location of the charger or receptacle
• The risk of physical damage
• Your current and future charging needs

EV-charger installations in Ontario are subject to the Ontario Electrical Safety Code, require an electrical notification and must use approved electrical equipment. Electrical work performed for hire must be completed through a Licensed Electrical Contractor. citeturn595357search6

EV-Charger Installations in York and Durham Region

GO Electrical provides permitted residential EV-charger installations throughout York and Durham Region.

Whether your installation requires a hardwired charger, an EV-grade receptacle, mechanically protected wiring, energy management or an electrical service upgrade, we will assess the home and explain the available options before recommending a solution.

Send us a picture of your electrical panel, the EV charger you plan to use and the location where you park. We can help you determine what may be required for a safe, durable and practical installation.