Installing An Electric Vehicle Charger: Where To Start

Though they were once thought of as exclusive and costly, electric vehicles are becoming far more common and affordable. If you've been looking to invest in one, there are a few things that you need to consider. In order for you to charge your vehicle, you'll need to talk with an electrician about installing an electric vehicle charger at your home. Here's a look at some of the things that you'll need to consider when it comes to installing that charging station on your home's electrical circuit.

Start With An Electrical Circuit Inspection

Before you buy an electric vehicle, the first thing that you should do is reach out to a local electrician for an inspection of your home's electrical circuit. You'll want to make sure that your wiring is in good condition, that there's sufficient capacity for an electric vehicle charger, and that your circuit can sustain it. 

If you want to have the charger installed in the garage, your electrician will have to check the garage infrastructure as well. The goal is to ensure that your electric vehicle charger doesn't overtax your home's electrical supply. In some cases, it's best to create a new electrical circuit with its own breaker panel to support your electric vehicle charging station. Your electrician will tell you if this might benefit you when they conduct the inspection.

Check Your Local Regulations

Another thing you'll need to do before installing the charging station for your electric vehicle is to check your local regulations. Every municipality has its own specifications that define which types of electric vehicle chargers are permitted in residential areas. You may be allowed to use only level 1 or 2 chargers, while in some areas level 3 chargers are permitted for residential use as well.

If your electrician has experience with electric vehicle charging station installations in your area, they may be familiar with your local regulations as well as any permits that you might need to obtain before the installation. Make sure that you stay compliant with all of your municipal regulations when you install your charging station.

Choose Your Charging Station

Finally, you'll have to choose the charging station that's the best fit for your needs. Each level has its own specifications, with level 2 charging stations providing more power and charging vehicles faster than level 1, and level 3 stations charging faster than level 2. For most homeowners, a level 1 or 2 charging station is more than sufficient for their needs. Talk with your electrician about your lifestyle and the demand on your car to help you determine the best option.

For more information, contact a company like Shocking Difference LLC.