Ask These Questions Before Installing an EV Charger in Your Home

All Star Electric

before installing ev charger

What’s the number one way to eliminate fuel costs, reduce harmful emissions, and become more energy independent? You guessed it. Electric vehicles. Before installing an EV charger at your home or business, there are several things you must consider.

Since Tesla Motors released the first electric vehicle in 2000, more and more people are getting on board with the trend. As a result, charging stations are popping up all over the place, making it easier than it once was to operate an electric vehicle.

Although it’s great to see businesses become EV car friendly, having your own EV charger is necessary if you want to own one of these eco-responsible beauties. Thankfully, having your own charging station installed is a fairly simple process—just make sure you ask the right questions before getting started.

Do I Need Extra Voltage or Amperage?

The last thing you want is a dead electric car. To make sure your vehicle is ready at a moment’s notice, you will need to have an EV charger installed in your garage or driveway for an easy nighttime recharge. This might require additional wiring to allow for a 240-volt outlet.

You also need a charger that can handle at least 30 amps, also known as a Level 2 charger. That way, your vehicle is ready to go after a few short hours. In-fact, you will get about 30 miles after charging for one hour. You EV driving guests will appreciate this convenience! Installing an EV charger is a great way to achieve these charging requirements, but some people opt to install a 240 volt receptacle only. This choice typically comes down to preference and cost.

Where is the Best Location for my EV Charger?

This probably goes without saying, but you want to place your EV charger at a convenient location. To make sure you have enough room, measure the distance between your intended installation spot and your vehicle’s charging port. Let your certified electrician know if you need more length or if you plan to accommodate multiple EV vehicles.

Should I Choose a Portable or Permanent EV Charger?

There are two basic EV charger types: plug-in or hardwired. A plug-in charger is portable, which can come in handy when you travel or move to a new home. If you want a permanent solution, then a hardwired charger is best.

In either case, it’s a good idea to get help from a qualified electrician to make sure important details are considered. For example, you cannot hardwire your EV panel unless your electrical panel is within reach of your vehicle’s charging cable.

Which Smart Options do I Want?

You will want to track the amount of electricity your EV vehicle consumes. Many EV vehicles come with mobile apps featuring a timer and meter. You can also choose a Wi-Fi enabled EV charger that features a touch screen timer and meter display. Although convenient, the second option depends on a solid Wi-Fi connection. Another option is to install a device that’s directly attached to your home’s smart grid.

Where do I find a Qualified Electrician in San Antonio?

Do you need help answering these important questions? To make sure you’re getting the best EV charger for your electric vehicle, contact All Star Electric. We specialize in installing safety certified charging stations of all types!

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