Thinking About Getting an EV Charger? Here’s What You Need to Know

9/7/2024

As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to gain popularity, more homeowners are looking to install EV chargers for convenient, at-home charging. Whether you’ve already purchased an EV or are planning to, having your own charging station offers the flexibility to charge your car overnight and avoid public charging stations. But where do you start? In this blog, we’ll cover the basic things to consider when getting an EV charger, from installation options to charging speeds.

Why Install an EV Charger at Home?

Having an EV charger at home offers several benefits:

Convenience: With a charger at home, you can plug in your EV overnight and start each day with a full battery, no need to visit public charging stations.
Cost Savings: Charging at home is generally cheaper than using public chargers, and you can take advantage of lower electricity rates during off-peak hours.
Long-Term Value: Installing an EV charger can increase the value of your home, especially as more people switch to electric vehicles.

Types of EV Chargers: What Are Your Options?

There are two main types of EV chargers for home use:

Level 1 Charger (120V):
This charger plugs into a standard 120V household outlet and is the slowest option, typically adding 3-5 miles of range per hour. It’s a good starting point for occasional EV use or if you drive short distances.
- Best for:
  - Low-mileage drivers
  - Overnight charging
  - Occasional EV use
Level 2 Charger (240V):
A Level 2 charger requires a 240V outlet (similar to what’s used for electric dryers) or a hardwired connection. It charges much faster than a Level 1 charger, adding 25-30 miles of range per hour, making it ideal for daily driving and long-distance trips.
- Best for:
  - Daily commuting
  - Faster charging needs
  - Long-distance drivers

Installation: What Do You Need to Know?

Installing an EV charger is relatively straightforward, but there are a few things to consider:

Electrical Panel Capacity:
Your home’s electrical panel will need to have enough capacity to handle the additional load of an EV charger, especially if you’re opting for a Level 2 charger. An electrician can evaluate your panel and determine if any upgrades are necessary.
Outlet vs. Hardwired:
Some chargers plug into a 240V outlet, while others are hardwired directly into your home’s electrical system. Plug-in chargers are more flexible and easier to install, while hardwired chargers offer more stability for long-term use.
Professional Installation:
While a Level 1 charger can be plugged into any standard outlet, a Level 2 charger often requires professional installation, especially if it involves upgrading your electrical panel or running new wiring.

What About Costs?

The cost of installing an EV charger varies depending on several factors:

Charger Cost:
Level 1 chargers are typically included with your EV purchase, while Level 2 chargers cost anywhere from $400 to $1,200, depending on the brand and features.
Installation Costs:
Installation costs for a Level 2 charger range depending on the size of the circuit, whether you need to upgrade your electrical panel, plug-in vs hardwired, distance from the panel.
Long-Term Savings:
Charging at home is generally cheaper than using public chargers. Plus, you can take advantage of time-of-use (TOU) electricity rates, which are lower during off-peak hours, further reducing your costs.

Conclusion:

Installing an EV charger at home is a smart investment that offers convenience, flexibility, and cost savings. Whether you opt for a Level 1 charger for occasional use or a faster Level 2 charger for daily driving, the right setup will ensure your EV is always ready to hit the road. If you’re ready to install an EV charger and need guidance, contact us today! We’ll help you choose the best option and ensure a safe, professional installation.

Thinking about getting an EV charger? Contact us today for expert advice and installation to keep your EV ready to go at all times!

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