Electric vehicle purchases are on the rise and with that comes the need to routinely charge your vehicle. Installing an EV charger at home can be a great convenience, create a reduced need for public charging pitstops, and has the potential benefit of increasing your property value. Just keep in mind the installation process involves several crucial steps that require professional expertise.
Step 1: Site Assessment
The first thing that needs to be done is a home site assessment. This will determine the best location for your charging station and will also determine whether or not your electrical system can handle the additional load. A certified electrician or installation professional will evaluate:
- Electrical Capacity: Your home’s electrical panel must have the capacity needed to support the charger. It is possible that you might have to upgrade your system.
- Placement: The charger should be installed in a location that provides easy access to the vehicle while ensuring safety but not while sacrificing convenience.
- Permitting Requirements: Local building codes require permits (depending on the county & installation requirement) for some home EV charger installations. We can help you navigate this process.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Charger
There are different types of EV chargers available, and selecting the right one depends on your charging needs and vehicle specifications. The main types of chargers include:
- Level 1 Charger: Uses a standard 120V household outlet and provides a slow charging rate, typically adding 3-5 miles of range per hour.
- Level 2 Charger: Requires a 240V outlet and charges significantly faster, offering 10-60 miles of range per hour depending on the charger’s power output.
- DC Fast Charger: Primarily used for commercial installations, these chargers provide rapid charging, adding 60-100 miles of range in 20-30 minutes.
For most homeowners, a Level 2 charger is the ideal choice for speed and a level 3 charger is usually too powerful for a home electrical system.
Step 3: Installation Process
The key steps to be aware of during the installation process include:
- Upgrading Electrical Panel (if necessary): As previously mentioned, if your panel lacks sufficient capacity, an upgrade will be required before installing the charger.
- Installing a Dedicated Circuit: A dedicated circuit is oftentimes necessary to prevent overloading your electrical system.
- Mounting the Charger: The charger unit is securely mounted where previously determined it would be best placed, this will guarantee easy access.
- Running Electrical Wiring: Proper wiring is installed from the electrical panel to the charger.
- Testing and Activation: After installation, the system is tested to verify proper functionality, and you’ll receive instructions on how to use and maintain the charger.
Step 4: Understanding Installation Costs
The cost varies based on several factors, but can include the type of charger, electrical upgrades, labor, and permitting fees. On average, costs range as follows:
- Level 1 Charger: $400 - $600 (minimal installation cost if an existing outlet is used).
- Level 2 Charger: $575 - $4,000 (depending on electrical upgrades and labor costs).
- DC Fast Charger: starts at $30,000 (commercial only).
Additional costs may include trenching for underground wiring, upgrading the electrical panel, or obtaining necessary permits.
Common Challenges in EV Charger Installation
While installation is generally straightforward, some common challenges can arise:
- Electrical System Limitations: As discussed before, older homes or buildings may require significant upgrades to support an EV charger.
- Permitting Delays: Some counties have strict regulations that can slow down the installation process.
- Placement Restrictions: Limited space or accessibility issues may require creative solutions for charger placement. This also can increase the cost for additional electrical wiring or actual construction work.
- High Installation Costs: Depending on the required upgrades, installation costs can be higher than expected.
By working with us, we can help address these challenges efficiently.
For a smooth installation process, please consider hiring us. We are a family-owned company providing a wide range of residential and commercial electrical services. If you are looking at other companies, here are some tips for finding a reputable service provider:
- Check Certifications and Licensing: Make sure that the installer is certified, licensed, and experienced in EV charger installations. We’ve installed hundreds of EV chargers and can guarantee a safe install.
- Read Customer Reviews: Look for reviews and testimonials from previous customers to gauge reliability and quality of service.
- Request Multiple Quotes: Compare pricing and services from different providers to get the best value.
- Ask About Warranties and Support: A good installer should offer warranties on installation and provide ongoing support if needed.
An EV Installation at home can be a valuable investment that also provides a great deal of convenience. By understanding the step-by-step process, choosing the right charger, and working with a qualified installer, you will have a safe and efficient installation experience. If you're looking to get an EV charger installed, call us and get started today!