Electric vehicle (EV) charger installation may seem like a daunting task, but it’s really not that difficult. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to do it yourself and provide some tips on finding a qualified installer. We’ll also take a look at the different types of EV charging available and what you need to know before making your purchase. So if you’re considering going electric, read on for everything you need to know about getting an electric car charger installation.
Different Types of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations and How to Choose the Right One
If you’re thinking of making the switch to an electric vehicle (EV), you’re probably wondering about charging options. EVs can be plugged into three different types of charging stations: Level 1, Level 2 and Direct Current (DC). Keep reading to learn more about each type of station and how to choose the right one for your home or business.
Level 1 Charging Stations
A Level 1 charger comes standard with every new EV and can be plugged into any standard 110-volt outlet. This type of charger usually doesn’t require any upgrades to your utility panel. A Level 1 charger delivers about 5 miles per hour of charge, so it’s great for topping off your battery before a long drive.
Level 1 charging stations use a 120-volt alternating current (AC), which is the same type of current that powers your home appliances. These stations are the slowest option for charging an EV and average 5 miles per hour of charge. Level 1 stations are often used as an emergency backup for people who own Level 2 or DC fast-charging stations.
Level 2 Charging Stations
If you’re looking to get the most out of your EV, you’ll want to upgrade to a Level 2 charger. Level 2 chargers are faster, more powerful, and can be installed at home or at public charging stations. With a Level 2 charger, you can get up to 25 miles of range per hour of charge. That means you can charge your car overnight and wake up with a full battery, ready to take on the day.
If you’re looking to get the most out of your battery electric vehicle (BEV), then Level 2 charging is the way to go. BEVs like the Tesla Model 3 have larger batteries that require longer charging times, making Level 2 the ideal choice. In addition, drivers with longer commutes or who want a faster charge or a longer electric driving range should also consider choosing a Level 2 charging station. With Level 2, you’ll be able to take advantage of your car’s full potential and get where you need to go without any range anxiety. So if you’re serious about making the switch to an electric vehicle, be sure to look into Level 2 charging stations. You won’t be disappointed.
Level 2 charging stations use a 240-volt AC, which is the same type of current that powers your clothes dryer or oven. These units can charge an EV up to five times faster than a Level 1 station and average 13 to 25 miles per hour of charge. Most EV chargers being installed today are Level 2 EV chargers.
Direct Current (DC) Charging Stations
DC fast-charging stations, commonly known as Level 3 chargers, use direct current (DC) power to quickly charge an EV’s battery. These units can charge a car in as little as 30 minutes, making them ideal for long road trips or quick charges before or after work. However, DC fast-charging stations are the most expensive option.
When you’re on the road, one of the best things you can do for your vehicle is to find a publicly available DC fast charger. These high-power stations can charge a battery to 80 percent of capacity in 30 minutes or less, making them ideal for long-distance travel. Many manufacturers now offer DC fast charging as an option for their vehicles, so check with your car manufacturer for more information. With the increasing availability of Level 3 DC fast chargers, there’s no excuse not to take advantage of this convenient and reliable technology.
Although it would be convenient to have a DC charger at home, it’s not a possibility for most homeowners. The majority of homes do not generate enough electricity to power a Level 3 charger. If you’re looking to use one of these chargers, your best bet is finding them in public parking lots or business complexes.
How to Choose the Right Charging Station
Now that you know more about the different types of charging stations available, you might be wondering which one is right for you. The answer depends on several factors, including budget, driving habits, and your electrical infrastructure.
If you only drive your car for short trips around town, a Level 1 station will probably suffice since you can charge your vehicle overnight while you sleep. If you frequently drive long distances or want the option to quickly charge your car, consider installing a Level 2 station in your garage. And if you’re really looking for convenience, go with a DC fast-charging station—just be prepared to pay a bit more upfront.
Fortunately, many electricity providers offer incentives for EV owners who make the switch to cleaner energy sources. So not only will you be doing your part for the environment, but you’ll also get paid to do so.
Installing an Electric Car Charging Station
If you’re considering installing an electric vehicle (EV) charging station, there are a few different factors that you’ll need to take into account. First, you’ll need to get an electrical assessment of your property to make sure that your home or business can accommodate an EV charger. Once you’ve determined that, you’ll need to decide which electric rate and meter system will work best for you. Finally, you’ll need to hire an EV charger installer who can handle everything for you.
WattLogic is one of the largest EV charger installers in the United States, so we’re more than qualified to help you with your installation.
Getting an Electrical Assessment
Before you do anything else, you’ll need to get an electrical assessment of your property. This assesses whether your home or business has the capacity to support an EV charger.
Our team of professionals will help select the best charger for your unique situation and determine what kind of upgrades, if any, need to be made in order for your property to accommodate an EV charger.
Determining Which Electric Rate and Meter System Works Best For You
Once we’ve determined that your property can support an EV charger, we’ll work with you to determine which electric rate and meter system will work best for you. There are a lot of different options out there, and it can be tough to determine which one is right for you. We’ll sit down with you and go over all of your options so that you can make the best decision for your needs.
Hiring an EV Charger Installer That Can Handle It All For You
Finally, once you’ve decided on which electric rate and meter system is right for you, it’s time to hire an EV charger installer who can handle everything for you. While some businesses try to cut corners in the installation process, this is generally not a good idea. It’s important to hire a professional who has experience installing EV chargers so that the process goes smoothly and without any problems. WattLogic has installed EV charging stations all over the United States, so we’re more than qualified to help you with your installation.
Installing an electric vehicle (EV) charging station is a big decision—but it’s one that comes with a lot of benefits. Not only will it make it easier for you to charge your own electric vehicle, but it will also make your home or business more attractive to potential customers or tenants who own EVs. If you’re considering installing an EV charging station, WattLogic is here to help. We offer electrical assessments, consultations on which electric rate and meter system is right for you, and complete installation services. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help!
