With the growing popularity of Electric Vehicles, now is a good time to add convenience and value to your home by installing an EV charging station. When choosing a home EV charger, just like choosing an EV itself, you should take into consideration a few factors such as how long is your daily commute and what charging speed do you require? Also, it only makes sense to install an EV charging station if you have a dedicated parking spot, ideally near your home, or even better, in your garage. 

Here are some guidelines for choosing an EV charger and what the installation process involves. 

Types of EV Chargers

There are three levels of EV charges, the first two of which are suitable for residential use. 

• Level One EV Chargers - The most basic EV Chargers are Level 1 chargers which require nothing more than a regular 120 volt electrical outlet, with a GFCI if positioned outdoors. You may already have a convenient outlet near where you park your car, but if not, it could be a quick job for a licensed electrician. A standard level one charging cord typically comes with your Electric Vehicle at the time of lease or purchase. When purchasing an EV it’s a good idea to negotiate for an extra charging cord so you can keep one in the car and still have one always ready to plug in at home.
  
  While Level One chargers are the easiest and most cost-effective chargers, it can take over 24 hours to charge an average EV from empty. Level One chargers provide roughly 4 miles of range per hour of charging so leaving your vehicle charging overnight will result in about 30-50 miles of driving range the next day, sufficient for many round-trip commutes.

• Level Two EV Chargers - A Level 2 charger can fully charge just about any EV at home overnight. Level 2 EV chargers are more powerful than level 1 chargers as they work on 240 volts. These can charge an average EV in about 8 hours, gaining about 25 miles of range per hour of charging time. Level 2 chargers are commonly used in both private and public spaces. Installing a Level 2 charger in your home or place of business provides great convenience and adds value to your property. 

• Level Three EV Chargers - Direct Current Fast Chargers (Level 3) are the fastest EV chargers and are found almost exclusively in public charging stations and for commercial use.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an EV Charger

Important factors to consider when choosing an EV charger include charging speed, vehicle compatibility, cost, installation requirements and any additional features you will be needing. Costs for level 2 chargers vary based on the included features such as wi-fi connectivity or weather protection for units that will live outside exposed to the elements. 

Installation Process for EV Chargers

When looking into the installation process for an at home EV charger you will need to take into consideration the charger’s electrical requirements, and general safety considerations. There are two types of home Level 2 EV chargers, one that is hardwired into your system and another that is a plug-in design, The cost of installation will depend on many factors including the current electrical capacity of your panel. 

Keating Electric can determine for you the best options for installing your charging unit and also can of any permits etc. that may be required for the installation.

Benefits of Installing an EV Charger at Home

The benefits of installing an EV charger at home are convenience and cost savings. By charging at home, you don’t need to pay to use public charging stations and in many areas including Westchester County you can also save money by taking advantage of electric vehicle charging incentives offered by Con Edison. You’ll enjoy not visiting public charging stations except on long trips just like you won’t miss old-fashioned stops at the gas station. 

Take the First Step

Electric cars are the future, and the future is already here. Whether you already own an electric vehicle or are seriously considering buying one, you will benefit from having an EV charger installed. Give Keating Electric a call and we’ll help you get the right charger installed in the best, most convenient location for you.