EV Charger Installation
The Demand For EV Charging Is Rising
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming an increasingly popular choice for people looking to reduce their carbon footprint and save on fuel costs. As a result, more and more homeowners and businesses are looking to install EV chargers to make it convenient for their EVs to be charged at home or at work. Here at Renegade Electrical, we often get called upon to install EV chargers in our customers homes or businesses. Here’s a guide on what our process looks like.
One of the first things we need to do is assess the health of your electrical panel.
In order to support an EV charger, your panel will need to have enough room in it to allow for a new 240V circuit, and with a large enough capacity to allow for an additional load of 40-60A.
If your panel doesn’t meet these requirements, we will typically have to install a larger panel, and in some instances upgrade your electrical service.
Choosing The Right EV Charger For Your Needs
Once we have ensured that the electrical panel has the necessary capacity, we will need to choose the right EV charger for your needs. There are a few factors to consider when choosing an EV charger, including the make and model of the EV, the available power supply, and the charging speed desired. Most EV chargers are available in levels 1, 2, and 3, with level 1 being the slowest and level 3 being the fastest. Level 1 chargers use a standard 120-volt outlet and are suitable for overnight charging, while level 2 chargers use a 240-volt outlet and can charge an EV in 4-6 hours. Level 3 chargers, also known as DC fast chargers, can charge an EV in as little as 30 minutes, but they require a high-voltage direct current (DC) power supply and are generally only found at public charging stations.
Our EV Charger Installation Process
Once we have chosen the right EV charger for you, we will need to install it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically involves mounting the charger on the wall or on a pedestal, running the electrical cables from the charger to the electrical panel, and making the necessary connections. It’s important to ensure that all electrical connections are properly made and that the charger is securely mounted to prevent any accidents or injuries.
Safety is of the utmost importance when it comes to electrical work. Our licensed electricians have the knowledge and experience to properly install an EV charger in a way that ensures the safety of both the people who will use it and the property where it is installed. They are also aware of the electrical codes set by NEC and local authority that must be met to ensure safety, compliance and avoiding future problems.
Testing Your New EV Charger
Finally, once the EV charger is installed, we will need to test it to ensure that it is functioning properly. This typically involves plugging in an EV and verifying that it is charging at the appropriate speed. If you encounter any issues during the installation or testing process, it’s important to address them immediately to ensure the safety and reliability of the EV charger.
Installing an EV charger in a home or business can be a challenging task, but with the right knowledge and expertise, it’s something that our electricians can handle with confidence. By following these steps and adhering to all applicable electrical codes and regulations, we can help you enjoy the convenience and benefits of having an EV charger at home or at work. So, this is how our electricians can install EV chargers in a home or business.