When electric vehicles became popular in the automobile market, public EV charging stations became more common. But while they solved a problem, they didn’t offer vehicle owners the convenience, accessibility, and ability to control the level of charge.
So this created a new problem with only one viable solution – preparing your home for electric vehicle charging. If you’re clueless on how to go about it, no worries. In this guide, we will talk about that.
Let’s start with the tools you need for private EV charging.
What Do You Need to Charge Your Electric Cars at Home?
To keep your EV juiced up, you need the following:
- An EV charger that suits your car and driving habits
- Power supply that’s adequate for the type of EV charger you’re using and adherent to local regulations and safety codes
- Electrical wire (the right length)
- A charge point (the location could be your garage or carport)
Is My Home Good to Go for EV Charging or Does It Need an Upgrade?
You should know that not all homes are equipped to charge electric vehicles. In fact, the older the building is the slimmer the chance of it being suitable for the task. So what do you do?
The first order of business is to contact a licensed electrician to assess your home’s switch board and determine if it has the capacity for electric vehicle charging. As tempting as it is to skip this step, it’s essential because installing an EV charging station in a home with outdated wiring or not enough capacity can increase the risk of electrocution or fire.
So, let the electrician make their findings and decide if your home is okay or if it needs an upgrade. In that case, it will include upgrading to the best switch board for the task and getting the best wire for switchboard, to name a few.
How to Determine the Kind of EV Charger to Install?
Virtually every EV charger from level 1 to 4 is compatible with electric car brands, so the real bone of contention is deciding on the charger that suits your driving habits, taste, budget, and home setup. Here’s a breakdown of the different kinds of EV chargers for your vehicles:
- Level 1: This is the most basic type; it provides a slow charge and is compatible with a standard 240-volt power outlet. It’s ideal for those who drive short distances and have the patience to charge their car overnight.
- Level 2: It needs heavy-duty wiring and a 240-volt power outlet. It charges faster than level 1 and is better suited for those who travel longer distances.
- Level 3 and 4: These EV chargers are more common in public stations as they offer the fastest charging speed.
EV Charging Station and Wiring Tips
These are the tips we recommend for a great EV charging experience:
- Select a well-ventilated and accessible location to install EV charging stations.
- Ensure your home’s electrical system (switchboard and all) supports electric vehicle charging.
- Hire a licensed electrician to install the EV charger, especially if you’ve decided to go with level 2 to ensure compliance with local codes and prevent dangerous incidents.
- Always stick to the manufacturer’s charging guidelines.
Final Thoughts
Setting your home up for EV charging is the way to go if you’re tired of relying on public stations that may not be within accessible distance. Just remember to check if your home supports it, choose the ideal charger for your needs, and follow the tips we’ve provided.