Electric vehicles (EVs) have become more popular in recent years due to their eco-friendliness, low operating costs, and improved performance. However, EV owners must recharge their vehicles frequently, which requires access to charging stations. As a result, there is a growing need for EV charging stations, particularly in residential areas. Installing an EV charger in your home is a great way to save money, reduce your carbon footprint, and enhance the convenience of owning an EV. We’ll discuss the steps involved in installing an EV charger in your home.

Step 1: Determine the Type of EV Charger You Need

The first step in installing an EV charger is determining the type of charger you need. There are three main types of EV chargers: Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast chargers (DCFC). Level 1 chargers use a standard household outlet and provide a slow charge that can take up to 24-60 hours to fully charge an EV battery. Level 2 chargers require a 240-volt circuit and provide a faster charge that can fully charge an EV battery in 6 to 10 hours. DCFCs are the fastest option, providing a full charge in as little as 30 minutes. However, they are much more expensive to install than Level 1 and Level 2 chargers and are only available for commercial sites, not residential.

Step 2: Choose the Location for Your EV Charger

Once you’ve decided on the type of charger you need, the next step is to choose the location for your EV charger. It’s best to choose a location that is close to where you park your EV, but also convenient for you to access. If you have a garage, it’s a great location for an EV charger. However, if you don’t have a garage, you can install an EV charger on an outside wall of your home or in your driveway.

Step 3: Hire an Electrician

Installing an EV charger requires electrical work, so it’s important to hire a licensed electrician to do the installation. The electrician will need to install a new circuit breaker and run wiring from the breaker box to the location of the EV charger. The electrician will also need to install a new outlet or hardwire the charger directly to the electrical panel.

Once the electrical work is done, it’s time to install the EV charger. Your electrician can make sure to securely mount the charger to the wall or other mounting location. If you’re installing a Level 2 charger, you may also need to install a charging cord hanger to keep the cord off the ground.

Step 4: Test the EV Charger

After the EV charger is installed, it’s important to test it to make sure it’s working properly. Plug in your EV and make sure it starts charging. You should also test the charger’s safety features, such as the ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) and overcurrent protection.

Conclusion:

Installing an EV charger in your home is a great way to save money and reduce your carbon footprint. By following these steps and hiring a licensed electrician, you can have an EV charger installed in your home in no time. With convenient access to a charging station, you can enjoy the many benefits of owning an EV, including lower operating costs and improved environmental sustainability.

EV Plug Pros is a licensed electrician that can complete your EV charger installation!