CEC Part I · Section 8 & 86 (EV Charging Equipment)
EV Charger Load Calculator
Size the breaker and wire for a Level 2 home EV charger, with the 125% continuous-load rule built in.
1. Charger Details
2. Required Circuit
125% continuous-load ruleMINIMUM BREAKER SIZE
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MINIMUM COPPER NMD90 WIRE
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EV charging circuits require an ESA permit and a Licensed Electrical Contractor — this is a continuous, high-draw load run for hours at a time, and undersized wiring here is a genuine fire risk. Also confirm your panel actually has this much spare capacity with our Panel Upgrade Calculator before buying a charger.
Why EV chargers get sized at 125%
- An EV charger is a "continuous load" — running at or near full draw for 3+ hours at a stretch.
- The CEC requires continuous loads to be sized at 125% of their rated current for both the breaker and the conductor.
- This is the same rule our Breaker Size calculator applies — EV charging is one of the most common places it actually matters in a home.
EV charger sizing
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Need an electrician for your project?
The Riley Group Electrical provides licensed, insured electrical services across Durham Region and the GTA. For panel upgrades, EV chargers, renovations, or troubleshooting, reach out today.
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ESA# 7011454
Durham Region & the GTA