Sustainability is a funny thing. We have to pay so much to keep the earth healthy. And, of course, you want to play ball, but sometimes you just need some guidance.
So with that being said, are you thinking of switching to an electric car and wondering how to install a home charger? Installing a home charger is not as complicated as you might think. This article will walk you through installing an electric car charger at home.
Determine Your Charging Needs
The first step to installing an electric car charger at home is determining your charging needs. Consider the type of electric car you have and its charging requirements.
Most electric cars come with a Level 1 charger that you can plug into a regular 120-volt outlet, but this can take up to 20 hours to fully charge your car. You must level up if you want faster charging (pun intended).
Level 2 chargers require a 240-volt outlet and can charge your car in 4-6 hours, depending on the battery size of your car. If you have a longer commute or plan to use your electric car for long trips, consider installing a Level 2 charger.
Preparing for Your Home Charger
Before you get the professionals to install your home charger, ensure your electrical panel can handle the extra load. The last thing you want is a power outage after trying to save the world.
Contact Yoder Electric to assess your electrical panel and make any necessary upgrades. You may also need to install a new circuit breaker for the charger.
Next, you need to decide where to install the charger. The most convenient location is usually in your garage or carport, but you should also consider the length of the charging cord and the distance between your car and the charger. Ensure there is enough space to park your car and access the charger safely.
Finally, you must choose the charger you want to install. There are many different brands and models of electric car home chargers on the market, so research to find one that meets your needs and budget.
How Professionals Install Your Charger
Technically, you can install an electric car charger at home but think about that briefly. If something goes wrong, you are putting your brand-new Tesla and your home’s electric system at risk.
It is highly recommended that you hire a professional electrician. A licensed electrician will ensure your home charger is installed safely and according to local building codes.
Here are the steps a professional electrician will take to install your home charger:
In case you are curious about our step-by-step process, here is what we do:
1. Choose the best location for the charger based on your needs and the layout of your home.
2. Install a new circuit breaker in your electrical panel and run a dedicated circuit for the charger.
3. Run a conduit from the electrical panel to the charger’s location.
4. Connect the charger to the electrical panel and the dedicated circuit.
5. Test the charger to make sure it is functioning correctly.
6. Obtain any necessary permits and have the installation inspected by local authorities.
Sustainability Doesn’t Have to Hurt
Installing an electric car charger at home is an excellent investment for electric car owners. It allows you to charge your car conveniently and quickly from the comfort of your home.
With the help of Yoder Electric, you can have your home charger installed safely and efficiently.