Choosing a Home EV Charging Station
Charging a plug-in electric vehicle (EV) at home is convenient and inexpensive. Most EV owners charge their vehicle at home to take advantage of lower residential electric rates compared to more expensive commercial charging stations. The cost to charge an EV at home over the course of a year can be less than the cost of running a central air conditioner.
Home charging is typically done on evenings and at night. For most owners, an EV’s range is enough for all their daily travel needs, eliminating the need to stop at public chargers for commuting and running errands. Simply connect your charger to your electric car when you come home from work, and you’ll have a fully charged battery the next morning.
Options For Charging an EV at Home
Prior to purchasing an EV you should check with the manufacturer for information about the required charging equipment, specifications and electrical requirements for your home. Using this information, Hickey’s electricians can provide you with a cost estimate for installing a charger and any related modification that may be required for your electrical system.
There are two types of residential charging stations available: level 1 and level 2.
Level 1 – Most electric vehicle manufacturers provide a level 1 charger, or electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) with the vehicle. Charging this way does not require any special equipment other than a 120V outlet. However, a dedicated branch circuit is highly recommended. With a Level 1 charger you can charge approximately 124 miles of range in 20 hours. Because level 1 chargers only supply around 2 to 5 miles of range to a vehicle per hour of charging time, they are best suited for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.
Level 2 – Level 2 chargers are sold separately from the vehicle. They require a 240V outlet, as well as a dedicated electrical circuit of 20 to 100 amps. Level 2 chargers will charge 3 to 7 times faster than a Type 1 charger, depending on the battery type and the charger design. All Type 2 chargers have an SAE J1772 connector, also known as a J plug, which is a North American standard for electrical connectors for electric vehicles.
Level 2 chargers are available with a range of features, from basic safety features and status lights, to more advanced designs with multi-function touchscreen displays, charging timers, smartphone connectivity and more.
Professional EV Charger Installation
EV chargers must be installed by a licensed electrician to comply with local, state and national codes and regulations. Local electrical inspecting and permitting authorities often require permits, and installers typically must submit a site installation plan to the permitting authority for approval before installation.
Whatever type of electric vehicle you have, whether it’s a Tesla, Chevy Bolt, Ford Lightning, or other model, Hickey Plumbing, Air and Electrical can professionally install a home EV charger that’s right for your needs. Call us today and discover the convenience and cost savings of charging at home.