Electric Vehicle Chargers: What You Need to Know Before Installing
There are several things you need to know before installing an electric vehicle (EV) charger at your house. You might need an electrical panel upgrade or some type of work-around to support the charger’s power consumption. You have several charging options to choose from. Speaking with an EV charger expert is the best way to ensure you install the right unit for your car and home.
Level 1 Charging
Any regular three-prong, 120-volt wall socket, officially called a NEMA 5-15 receptacle, will work with a Level 1 charger (L1). For reference, 12 amps, or 1.5 kilowatts, is roughly the amount of electricity used by one of these; this is comparable to a portable electric space heater.
The majority of electric vehicles already have an L1 cable installed, meaning you won’t need to buy a new cable for charging. You also won’t have to worry about any electrical work as long as there is a standard outlet near your parking spot. All you have to do is pay for the power.
The downside to L1 chargers is their slow charging process. They normally add only a few miles of driving every hour. It can take up to 12 hours or longer to fully charge an electric vehicle.
Level 2 Charging
Similar to the majority of electric stoves and dryers, a Level 2 (L2) charger operates on a 240-volt circuit. As a result, its speed is at least twice that of an L1 cable and usually much higher.
The problem is that to install one, around 75% of people have to hire an electrician to do some electrical work. L2 chargers frequently require upgraded electrical panels with new circuits, four-prong outlets and new cabling.
There aren’t really any downsides to L2 charging other than the electrical upgrades you’ll need to make. Some studies show that L2 charging is much more efficient than L1 charging. This means more electricity coming from the outlet makes it to the vehicle’s battery. Some people say the faster charging is hard on an electric battery, but real-world case studies show no issues.
Level 3 Charging
Level 3 chargers are faster than L1 and L2 chargers but much more inconvenient to install at home. Still, they can give you an 80% recharge in about 30 minutes, give or take a few. That’s more than enough energy to drive for several hours.
These chargers are incredibly expensive to add to a home. In regard to their installation complexity, it’s like trying to add a gas pump to a residential setting. That’s why most L3 chargers only exist in public spaces.
Do You Absolutely Need Level 2 or 3 Charging?
For most people, an L1 or L2 charger is more than sufficient for their charging needs. L3 chargers are great to have, but their high cost and complex installation make them impractical in most neighborhoods.
The benefits of having an L2 charger over an L1 stem from faster charging, greater convenience and the ability to handle higher power demands. You’ll have a full battery every time you need it. Plus, instead of draining the car’s battery, an L2 charger allows you to pre-cool or warm the vehicle using power from your house. This can help extend the battery’s range in cold weather.
Where Is It Possible to Install an EV Charger?
A garage is the ideal spot to install an EV charger since it shields the vehicle from inclement weather and allows for simple connection to the electrical system. An alternative to a garage, such as a carport or driveway next to the electricity grid, may also work. You should position the charger so that it is not in the way of your car’s movement and is simple to access. Always get a specialist to ensure everything complies with electrical and safety regulations.
Finding Out Whether You Need a New Electrical Panel
You must verify that your home’s electrical panel can manage the additional power required by an EV charger. There’s a chance your present panel can’t provide the amount of power required. It’s best to get an electrician’s opinion on whether or not your system needs an update.
Should You Use Circuit-Sharing or Load-Shedding Devices?
If your electrical system has limitations, gadgets that share circuits or cause load-shedding may be helpful. Load-shedding lowers power use during peak hours, while circuit-sharing allows you to make use of existing circuits. To find out which one is ideal for your house, consult an electrician.
1st Choice Service Group Heating & Air has answers to any questions you may have about adding an EV charger to your home. We also offer services for other types of electrical upgrades, including panel upgrades, wiring enhancements and lighting installations. Call 1st Choice Service Group Heating & Air now to learn more about adding an EV charger to your home in Asheville, NC.