Advantages of Installing a Level 2 Charger at Home

The electric vehicle (EV) market is in the midst of rapid growth, with more than 3 million electric vehicles sold worldwide last year, showing that people are increasingly opting for cleaner, environmentally friendly ways of getting around. This trend shows that electric vehicle owners want to charge their vehicles easily and quickly at home. In fact, nearly 80 percent of EV owners say they would like to have a home charger for overnight charging.

Obviously, level 1 chargers using standard wall sockets charge too slowly for most people and take longer to fully charge. In contrast, level 3 chargers (i.e. DC chargers) range in power from 50 kW to 350 kW and can be charged to 80% in 20 minutes. However, level 3 chargers are generally found only at public charging stations because they require a lot of power and are expensive to install. Therefore, the 240 volt level 2 charger becomes the ideal choice for home charging.

Switching to electric vehicles isn't just about buying a new car, it's also about making sure your home can support charging. That's why understanding the installation costs of a Level 2 charger is crucial for homeowners considering buying an electric vehicle. This way, they can be prepared to ensure that the electric car is fully charged at all times and without worry.

Advantages of Installing a Level 2 Charger at Home

Installing a Level 2 charger at home not only makes charging electric vehicles easy, but also brings a variety of benefits:

Easy Home Charging

With a Level 2 charger, you don't have to look outside for a fast charging station. Although public charging stations are fast, they are not always easy to find and are more expensive. Charging at home means your car is always ready, avoiding the extra hassle of parking.

Save Money on Electricity

Choose to charge your electric vehicle at night or during off-peak hours to save money. Many power companies offer special discounts to electric vehicle owners, making home charging more economical than public charging.

Faster Charging Time

Level 2 chargers charge faster than normal level 1 chargers. A Level 1 charger provides about 4-5 miles per hour, while a Level 2 charger provides about 25 miles per hour. This means less waiting time and more driving pleasure.

Increasing Home Values

More and more buyers attach importance to the installation of electric vehicle chargers. One study showed that homes with electric car chargers tend to sell for more than those without, making them a smart choice for home appreciation.

Prepare to Install Level 2 Charger

Evaluation Electrical System

Before installing a Level 2 charger, it is important to check your electrical system. A professional electrician can help you assess whether you need to update the circuit breaker box or switchboard to support an electric vehicle charger.

Choose the Right Location

Choosing where to install the charger is crucial, which affects the cost of installation. You may want to place the charger near the garage or driveway and take into account the distance from the switchboard - the closer the better, as this will reduce the need for wiring. In addition, it is also necessary to consider whether it is installed indoors or outdoors, if it is installed outdoors, it is necessary to ensure that the charger can withstand bad weather.

Steps to Install a Level 2 Charger

(1) Choose the right charger for your vehicle and determine the charging speed.
(2) Find an experienced electrician to install electric car chargers.
(3) Obtain the required local licenses.
(4) Update electrical systems if necessary.
(5) Install the charger in the selected location and connect it to the power supply.
(6) Check the charger before first use to make sure it is working properly.

Factors Affecting the Installation Cost of Secondary Chargers

Charger Type

When choosing a level 2 charger, there are mainly two types: hardwired and plug-in. Hardwired chargers are usually mounted and fixed, suitable for outdoor use, and cost between $500 and $2,000, depending on the features of the charger. Plug-in chargers are more flexible and easy to set up, and typically cost between $400 and $1,500.

Electrical Requirements and Upgrades

Ensure that the electrical system in your home can meet the needs of the Level 2 charger. If your house is older, you may need to install a 240-volt dedicated circuit or upgrade the switchboard. An electrician can inspect an electrical system for about $100 to $250. If you need to upgrade the switchboard, it can cost between $1,500 and $3,000, depending on the complexity of the job and the location.

Labor and Electrical Costs

The cost of hiring a professional electrician to install a Level 2 charger varies by region and the complexity of the job. Hiring an experienced electrician can help ensure that installations meet local codes.

Licenses and Regulations

Installing a Level 2 charger in your home usually requires an electrical permit and a building permit. Application fees range from 50 to several hundred dollars, and local authorities may be required to conduct inspections to ensure compliance.

Maintenance and Operating Costs

Maintaining a Level 2 charger at home is relatively simple and doesn't require much maintenance. It's a good idea to check the status of the charger regularly to make sure the cables are neat and the charging area is kept clean. The main cost of using a charger depends on the electricity bill and the frequency of charging, which can typically add about $30 to $60 to the monthly electricity bill.

Conclusion

In short, installing level 2 chargers at home is a convenient and efficient solution for charging electric vehicles. This will not only enhance your charging experience, but also bring long-term financial benefits to your family and increase the value of your home. As the electric vehicle market continues to expand, having charging facilities ready in time will make your future travel more hassle-free. When considering installing a Level 2 charger, remember to evaluate the electrical system, select the right location, and work with a professional electrician to ensure a safe and compliant installation.