Key Considerations When Installing An Electric Vehicle Charger
If you recently purchased an electric vehicle, your next investment will likely be to install an electric vehicle charging station on your property. Having access to a home charging station is convenient and helps ensure consistent, reliable charging for your new car. However, there are a few things that you need to consider to ensure a successful experience with your charger installation. Here are a couple of key factors to think about.
Can your electrical grid support a charger?
The first thing that you need to consider before you install an electric vehicle charger is whether or not your home's electrical grid can support the draw of the charger. You should have an electrician assess the circuit to make sure that you have the capacity. If you don't, they can always establish an additional circuit for you to dedicate to the charger. This would help you ensure consistent power for the charger without worrying about overloading the primary power grid for your home. Don't skip this step or you might find that you trip breakers when you charge your car due to the excessive draw.
Do you need a permit for the installation?
In most areas, you need to have a permit to install an electric vehicle charger. Since some of the residential chargers operate on the 240-volt circuit, most municipalities require specialized electrical construction permits to install the charging system. This is essential for ensuring safety during the installation, so talk with an electrician about your area's requirements before you get too far into the process.
Are you having it professionally installed?
You might be tempted to have a friend or family member help you install the charger to save money on the cost of professional installation. Unfortunately, this can lead to a variety of complications and safety hazards. Since these chargers typically require a 240-volt circuit, it's in your best interest to leave the installation to a professional. In fact, many towns require these chargers to be installed by an electrician for safety's sake. Talk with your local electrician about having your new system installed professionally to protect yourself, your car, and your home.
These are three of the most important factors to think about when you're installing an electric vehicle charger for your car. Talk with an electrician today for more guidance and to ensure that you choose the right charging system for your home's electrical circuits.
Contact a local electrician to learn more about electric vehicle charger installation.