Questions To Ask Before Installing an EV Charger in Your Home

Don't put off thinking about getting a home charger if you want to switch to an electric vehicle and hope to be able to charge it at home. Compared to using a standard plug socket, using an electric vehicle (EV) home charger is quicker and safer. When purchasing an electric vehicle (EV), manufacturers advise that drivers have a home EV charger installation. So, what is the installation procedure? Here are some questions to ask an electrician before you start your home EV charger installation.

How Will the EV Charger be Installed?

It's important to inquire about the installation process in general. An electrician will arrive, check the meter box, measure how much cable is needed for the EV charger installation, and determine where the station will be installed. They will make any necessary preparations for the electric vehicle charger, and installing the electric vehicle charging station typically takes between two and four hours. During the installation of an EV charger, tests and inspections are always carried out as well.

How Much Does the Installation Cost?

Costs vary greatly. The EV charger itself will set you back between $700 and $2,200 for an attached garage, plus another $800 for installation. To supply more power to your detached garage, you may need to dig a trench if it does not have an electrical panel inside. That will undoubtedly raise the installation cost. An additional unanticipated expense could be upgrading your electrical panel or service to safely accommodate the increased load.

How Long Will It Take to Charge My Car?

This is contingent on the kind of charging system. The first stage takes about 16 hours. Stage 2, the most well-known system used in homes, requires around 6-8 hours for a full charge, which will give you roughly 300-500 kilometers of driving reach. Stage 3, on the other hand, can charge your batteries up to 80% in just 30 minutes.

What Are Common Issues That an EV Charger Can Have?

You may find that your main breaker constantly trips if the load calculation for the house is incorrect. A Stage 2 charger requires 240 Volts (50 Amps). The square footage of your home and the number of large electrical appliances you might have running simultaneously serve as the basis for the load calculation. If you install the charger incorrectly, you run the risk of having a variety of difficult-to-diagnose charging malfunctions and, worst case scenario, fire hazards.

Do EV Chargers Need Maintenance?

To prevent damage, the charging cord should generally be stored securely. The system as a whole should be kept clean, and any EVSE parts that are accessible should be inspected periodically for wear and tear. The units can be cleaned with mild detergent and a damp cloth. Before performing electrical component service, the equipment should always be de-energized. Ask a qualified electrician from HomeOps Electric for further details on maintenance and the installation process.