The Future of Home EV Charging in Canada: Comparing the Aquila and Dorado Home Chargers
With the surge in electric vehicle (EV) ownership across North America, particularly in Canada, the demand for efficient and reliable home charging solutions is on the rise. Charging your EV at home is convenient, cost-effective, and essential for maintaining a fully charged battery. However, with numerous home chargers available on the market, it can be challenging to choose the best one for your needs.
Two standout options are the Aquila Home Charger and the Dorado Home Charger by Moten EVFC. Both chargers provide exceptional performance, but they offer different features and capabilities. In this blog, we’ll compare these chargers, focusing on their installation, energy savings, and compatibility with Canadian and US EV models. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which charger suits your home EV charging needs best.
Installation: Ease and Flexibility for Homeowners
When it comes to home EV charging in Canada, ease of installation is a crucial factor to consider. Not all homes are equipped with the electrical infrastructure to handle the demands of an EV charger, so selecting a charger that is easy to install and compatible with various home setups is vital.
The Aquila Home Charger, a 48A Level 2 charger, is designed with user-friendly installation in mind. This charger is ideal for homeowners who want a straightforward installation process without the need for extensive electrical upgrades. It operates on a standard 240V outlet, which is commonly found in Canadian homes. With its compact design and versatile mounting options, the Aquila Home Charger can be installed both indoors and outdoors, making it a flexible solution for different types of home environments.
On the other hand, the Dorado Home Charger offers more power with its 80A capacity, which allows for faster charging times. However, due to its higher power requirements, installing the Dorado Charger may require a more robust electrical setup. Homeowners with an existing 240V outlet may need to upgrade their electrical panel to support the Dorado’s energy demands, especially if they plan on using the charger at its maximum output. Despite the additional installation requirements, the Dorado Home Charger is still designed to be a seamless, long-term solution for those looking to future-proof their EV charging needs.
Both chargers are designed to be compatible with Canadian weather conditions, which can be harsh, especially during the winter months. The Aquila and Dorado both feature weatherproof exteriors, allowing for outdoor installation even in freezing temperatures. This is particularly important for homeowners who may not have access to indoor garage space.
Energy Savings: Efficiency and Cost-Effectiveness
Energy efficiency is another critical consideration when choosing an EV charger, particularly for home EV charging in Canada where electricity costs vary depending on the province. Both the Aquila and Dorado Home Chargers are designed to provide energy-efficient charging, but they differ slightly in terms of their overall energy savings.
The Aquila Home Charger is ideal for daily charging needs, offering a balanced approach to speed and energy consumption. With its 48A output, the Aquila can charge most EVs overnight without putting excessive strain on your home’s electrical system. This is especially beneficial for homeowners who want to avoid high-electricity bills while still ensuring that their EV is fully charged by morning. Additionally, the Aquila offers smart charging features, allowing users to schedule charging sessions during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower. This can result in significant energy savings over time.
The Dorado Home Charger, with its 80A output, is a powerhouse that allows for faster charging times but at a higher energy draw. While it charges EVs more quickly than the Aquila, the Dorado is best suited for households that need to charge multiple vehicles or for individuals who require rapid charging on a daily basis. The Dorado’s advanced energy management system ensures that it operates efficiently, but due to its higher output, homeowners should be mindful of electricity usage, especially during peak hours. Like the Aquila, the Dorado also supports smart charging, which allows users to optimize charging times for energy savings.
For those looking to balance charging speed with energy efficiency, the Aquila may be the better option. However, if charging speed and future-proofing are your top priorities, the Dorado will deliver the performance you need, albeit with slightly higher energy usage.
Compatibility with Canadian and US EV Models
Another important factor in choosing the right home charger is its compatibility with the various EV models available in Canada and the US. Both the Aquila and Dorado Home Chargers are designed to work seamlessly with a wide range of EV models from major manufacturers, making them excellent choices for home EV charging in Canada.
The Aquila Home Charger is compatible with most popular EV models, including those from Tesla (with an adapter), Nissan, Chevrolet, BMW, and more. Its universal J1772 connector ensures that it can be used with nearly all electric vehicles sold in North America. This makes it an ideal choice for households with a single EV or those planning to purchase a different model in the future.
Similarly, the Dorado Home Charger is designed to accommodate the growing variety of EV models in both Canada and the US. Its high-powered 80A output makes it especially suitable for EVs with larger battery capacities, such as the Tesla Model X, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and other high-performance models. The Dorado’s compatibility with both current and future EV models ensures that it will remain a reliable charging solution even as EV technology continues to evolve.
In terms of cross-border compatibility, both chargers are fully compliant with Canadian and US electrical standards. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who frequently travel between the two countries or those who plan to purchase an EV from a US manufacturer.
Choosing Between Aquila and Dorado: What’s Best for You?
Ultimately, the choice between the Aquila Home Charger and the Dorado Home Charger depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you’re looking for a reliable, easy-to-install, and energy-efficient charger for daily use, the Aquila Home Charger is a great option. Its balanced charging speed, weatherproof design, and energy-saving features make it an excellent choice for most Canadian homeowners.
On the other hand, if you’re seeking a more powerful solution with faster charging times and the ability to charge multiple vehicles, the Dorado Home Charger is the way to go. While it requires a more robust installation and uses more energy, its advanced features and compatibility with a wide range of EV models make it a future-proof investment for households with growing EV needs.
Conclusion
As the electric vehicle market continues to expand, having the right home charging solution is essential for convenience, energy savings, and overall vehicle performance. Whether you choose the Aquila or the Dorado, both of Moten EVFC’s chargers provide reliable, efficient, and weather-resistant options for home EV charging in Canada. By considering factors such as installation, energy efficiency, and compatibility, you can make an informed decision that suits your lifestyle and ensures that your EV remains charged and ready for the road ahead.
