EV Charging Station Installation
You can use either Level 1 or Level 2 EV charging to charge your vehicle at home. There is also Level 3 DC fast charging, but this requires far more power than your electrical system can supply.
Experts also recommend not using Level 3 charging more than a few times a month. The reason is that Level 3 charging causes the battery to heat up and can make it degrade much more quickly.
For Level 1 charging, all you need to do is plug your EV into a normal 120-volt outlet. The issue with this is that your vehicle will charge painfully slowly. If you use Level 1 charging, it will usually take well over a full day to receive a full charge.
This is where installing a Level 2 station is an excellent option since it can fully charge most EVs in four to eight hours. You also don’t need to worry about damaging your battery like you do if you always use public Level 3 stations.
When you choose HR Phoenix, you can count on our EV charging installers to help with all of the following things:
- Electrical load calculation
- Installing a new dedicated 240-volt circuit
- Hardwiring the charger or installing the correct 240-volt outlet
- Upgrading your electrical panel if needed
Performing an electrical load calculation is important for ensuring that your electrical system can support your EV charger. Depending on how many amps your current panel is, you may need to upgrade it to accommodate the charger.
You will also almost always need a new circuit installed for your charging station. That’s because the National Electric Code mandates that any Level 2 charging station is on its own dedicated 240-volt circuit. You then have the option to have an electrician hardwire the charger.
You can also just plug the station into a special 240-volt outlet. Hardwiring the charger is generally the better option since it helps prevent power fluctuations and will provide more consistent charging speeds.
The location of your EV charger is up to you, but installing it inside a garage is the best option whenever possible. The reason is that charging in extreme heat or cold can damage the battery and shorten its life. For best results, experts recommend trying to charge your vehicle in an area that is around 70 degrees.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of having an EV charging station at home?
Having an EV charging station at home offers convenience and cost savings. You can avoid the inconvenience of public charging stations and save money on fuel costs by charging your electric vehicle overnight at home.
What is the difference between Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 EV charging?
Level 1 charging involves plugging your EV into a standard 120-volt outlet, which charges slowly. Level 2 charging uses a dedicated 240-volt circuit and can fully charge most EVs in four to eight hours. Level 3 DC fast charging requires significantly more power and is typically used for quick charging on the go.
Why is Level 3 charging not recommended for frequent use?
Level 3 charging can cause the battery to heat up quickly, leading to faster degradation. Experts recommend limiting its use to a few times a month to preserve the battery’s lifespan.
What does the EV charging installation process involve?
Our EV charging installers handle various tasks, including electrical load calculation, installation of a new dedicated 240-volt circuit, hardwiring the charger or installing a 240-volt outlet, and upgrading the electrical panel if necessary. These steps ensure that your electrical system can support the EV charger safely and efficiently.
Where is the best location to install an EV charger?
It’s recommended to install the EV charger inside a garage whenever possible to protect the battery from extreme temperatures. Charging in an area around 70 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for preserving the battery’s lifespan.
Why choose HR Phoenix for EV charging station installation?
HR Phoenix is a family-owned company dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and outstanding workmanship. Our experienced team will guide you through the installation process, answer any questions you have, and provide a free estimate to ensure fair pricing for your EV charging installation.