As more people make the switch to electric cars, the convenience of charging at home has become not just a luxury but a necessity for many. While most EVs come equipped with a standard Level 1 charger, there are many reasons why you should consider installing a Level 2 EV home charger, such as charging speed.
But what does installing a Level 2 EV charging station at home entail?
In this blog, we guide you through everything you should consider before installing a Level 2 home EV charger, from understanding the technical requirements to evaluating the costs and benefits. Our goal is to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision. So, whether you're an EV owner looking to upgrade your home charging setup or just beginning to explore the world of electric vehicles, this post is for you.
Let's get started!
Benefits of a Level 2 EV Home Charger
Benefits that come along with installing a Level 2 EV charging system at home include:
- Faster Charging Times: The most significant advantage of a Level 2 home charger is its speed. Compared to a standard Level 1 charger, a Level 2 charger can recharge your EV up to seven times faster (up to 80% in half an hour to 40 minutes), ensuring your car is ready to go when you are.
- Greater Convenience: Installing a Level 2 charger at home means you can charge your EV during your most convenient times, including overnight. There is no need to rely on public charging stations and plan your day around when and where you will charge your car.
- Increased Home Value: Installing a Level 2 EV charger can boost your home's value. As more people switch to electric vehicles, prospective home buyers are increasingly looking for properties equipped with home EV charging stations.
- Environmental Impact: By driving an EV and charging it at home, you reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.
- Cost Savings: While there's an upfront cost to install a Level 2 charger, over time, charging at home can be more economical than relying on public charging stations, especially if you take advantage of off-peak electricity rates.
- Prolonged EV battery life: Solely relying on public Level 3 EV charging stations (DC fast chargers) can put stress on your EV battery. While battery degradation from Level 3 DC chargers is minimal, it's still best to rely on a Level 2 home charger for day-to-day charging.
Learn more about our residential EV charging station installation services!
What to Consider Before Installing a Residential Level 2 EV Charger
Before installing a residential Level 2 EV charger, it's crucial to consider a few key aspects. These factors will ensure your installation goes smoothly and that your new charging station operates safely and efficiently.
Your home's electrical infrastructure
The first thing to assess is your home's electrical infrastructure. A Level 2 EV home charger requires more power than standard home appliances, so ensuring your home can handle the increased load is essential. This involves evaluating your home's electrical capacity, which includes the electrical panel, wiring, and circuits.
A reputable licensed electrician can thoroughly evaluate your existing electrical infrastructure and determine if it can support an EV charging station. They can also identify any necessary upgrades or changes to ensure your charger operates optimally and safely.
EV charging station types and brands
From Tesla to Wallbox and Emporia, many types and brands of EV home charging stations are available on the market, each with their own features and benefits. When selecting the best charging station for your home, consider the following key factors:
- Charging Speed: Not all Level 2 chargers offer the same charging speed. Some can deliver more power than others, resulting in quicker charge times.
- Vehicle Compatibility: Ensure the charger you select is compatible with your specific EV model. While most Level 2 chargers use a standard connector compatible with various EVs, it's always wise to double-check.
- Warranty: A warranty provides peace of mind, knowing that you're covered if something goes wrong with your charger. Look for a charger with a robust warranty from a reputable brand.
- Smart Charging Features: Look for home EV charging systems with "smart" features, such as WiFi connectivity, scheduling capabilities, and energy usage tracking. Many home EV chargers now come with an app that gives you complete remote control of your charger via your smart devices. These features can significantly enhance your charging experience and make home charging that much easier.
At Lemberg, our team of reliable electricians will take the time to help you find the residential EV charging system that best fits your needs and budget. We are your trusted local electrical contractor with over 95 years of electrical experience in the Milwaukee area.
Installation Costs
The total cost of installing a Level 2 EV charger at home varies depending on several factors:
- Equipment: The cost of the charging station itself can range significantly based on its features, power output, and brand.
- Electrical Upgrades: If your electrician determines that your home requires electrical upgrades to accommodate the charger, these will add to the total cost. Upgrades could include things like a new circuit or an updated electrical panel.
- House Structure: A crucial factor to consider is the distance between your garage and the electrical service panel, typically located in the basement. This is especially important for larger homes or if the house has a furnished basement. In other words, if your electrical panel is hard to get to or reach, this may add an extra cost.
- Labor: The cost of labor for the installation will depend on the complexity of the job and the rates of the electrician you hire.
- Permits: Depending on your local regulations, there may be fees associated with securing the necessary permits.
Various federal, state, and local incentives may be available to offset some of these costs to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles. These can include tax credits, rebates, or even discounts on your electric bill. It's worth researching what incentives are available in your area, as they can significantly reduce the overall cost of installing your home EV charger.
Safety and compliance
Below are key safety and compliance aspects you should consider when installing your residential EV charging station.
Cable Management: Proper cable management cannot be overstated. It reduces the risk of tripping hazards, prevents damage to the charging cable, and keeps your charging area neat and organized. Many home charging stations come with cable management solutions like hooks or reels, but you can also explore additional options that suit your specific needs.
Grounding: Grounding is a crucial safety measure that protects your home and your vehicle from electrical faults. This should be done by a licensed electrician during the installation process to ensure it's correctly and safely executed.
Surge Protection: Surge protection is another important consideration. A surge protector can safeguard your EV charger and your vehicle from potential damage caused by electrical surges. This is particularly critical in areas prone to lightning storms.
Compliance with Local Building Codes: If you're installing an EV charger in an apartment building or multi-unit residence, you'll need to comply with local building codes. These can include specific requirements for wiring, installation location, and accessibility. Consult with a professional who is familiar with these codes to ensure your installation meets all necessary standards.
Are you a multi-unit residential building owner looking to install EV chargers for your residents? Learn everything you need to know about commercial EV charging station installation here!
Maintenance
Keeping your Level 2 EV charging station in optimal condition is essential to ensure its longevity and performance. While these stations are designed for durability and minimal upkeep, the following are some regular maintenance practices that can help you maximize their potential.
- Keep your charging station free from dust and debris by wiping it down with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using water or harsh cleaning agents as they could damage the station. It's also advisable to check for any visible signs of wear and tear, such as fraying cables, which should be addressed immediately.
- Have a qualified electrician perform routine inspections to look for any potential issues, including loose connections, corrosion, or signs of overheating. This proactive maintenance approach can not only ensure your charging station is functioning properly but also help prevent more significant issues down the line.
- Pay attention to anything unusual in your EV’s charging patterns. For example, if your EV is charging slower than usual, it may indicate a problem that needs to be addressed. If you notice any irregularities or have concerns about your charging station's performance, it's best to contact an electrician that specializes in EV charger installation or reach out to the EV charger manufacturer.
Why Choose Lemberg?
Lemberg is committed to being your trusted Milwaukee and SE Wisconsin EV charging station contractor. We proudly offer residential and commercial EV charging station installation for all Level 2 and 3 EV chargers. If you’re looking to install a Level 2 EV charger for your home, Lemberg is your trusted electrician.
Our expert team is here to provide you with turnkey and budget-friendly solutions to your residential EV charging station installation needs. Whatever the scope of the project, we are here to help guide you from initial planning and cost estimating to final unit installation.
Contact us today to learn more!
