Whether you are thinking about buying an electric car, or you’ve already bought one, good for you! Electric cars are incredible, good for the environment, they have less upkeep than regular cars, and let’s be honest, they are just plain cool. One of the many perks of owning an EV is the convenience of charging it at home. In this guide, we’ll tell you the things you must know before you purchase an EV charger for your home right in your own garage or driveway. It’s important to note that this guide is NOT DIY, you should not attempt to install the charger yourself. We recommend the entire installation be done by a trained certified electrician.
1: Figure Out Your Home’s Electrical Capacity
Before you start shopping, you’ve got to make sure that your home’s electrical system can support an EV charger. Most EV chargers require a 240-volt circuit, similar to what’s needed for large appliances like electric stoves or dryers. You’ll want to ensure that your existing electrical panel can handle this requirement along with the appliances that it is already supporting. If you’re unsure, or already know it can’t, you’ll need to consult with a professional electrician to upgrade your system.
2: Choose the Right Charger
Now that you’ve got the electrical side of things figured out, it’s time to find the right charger for you. Maybe you didn’t know this, but there are several types of EV chargers available, each with its own set of features and charging speeds. Level 1 chargers typically use a standard 120-volt household outlet and are sufficient for overnight charging. Level 2 chargers require a 240-volt circuit, provide faster charging speeds, and bring happiness to the impatient folks out there. Consider your charging needs and the compatibility with your car when selecting the right EV charger to install in your home.
3: Finding the Ideal Location for Your Charger
Deciding where to install your EV charger is an important step in the process. You’ll want to choose a location that is easily accessible and close to where you typically park your vehicle. Maybe that part is obvious, but you’ll also want to take into account factors such as the length of the charging cable, proximity to the electrical panel, and protection from weather when selecting the installation spot and the right charger. It’s also crucial to ensure that the chosen location complies with local regulations and safety guidelines (again, this is where we recommend you talk with a professional). While it might seem tedious now, imagine having everything set up just to find that you can’t quite reach the charger to your car with your garage closed.
4: Hire a Professional Electrician
A professional electrician will ensure that the installation meets all local electrical codes and safety standards. They will also make sure that no dangerous accidents occur that may have if you tried to do all this by yourself. The electrician will start by installing the dedicated circuit for the EV charger and connecting it to the electrical panel. They’ll then mount the charging unit according to the manufacturer’s instructions and route the charging cable to the desired location. Because the electrician will be installing your EV charger in your home, they will check the codes and protocols of your home and area to be sure that everything is done safely.
5: Testing and Verification
After the installation is complete, the electrician will test the EV charger to be sure that it is functioning correctly. This is also a good opportunity to familiarize yourself with the charger’s features and settings. We would recommend simply taking a video of the person helping you while they explain it. That way, you always have something to look back to when you have questions. Once everything has been tested and verified, you’re ready to start enjoying the convenience of charging your car at home.
You Now Have an EV Charger at Home!
Setting up an electric car charger at home doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive, especially with the help of a professional electrician. By enlisting their expertise, you can streamline the process and guarantee a smooth installation. Imagine the excitement of having your very own EV charger right in your driveway, ready to power up your vehicle whenever you need it. Congratulations on the new car, and here’s to an even more convenient charging process!