How to Properly Install an EV Charger

 

Before purchasing an EV charger, you must know about EV Charger Installation. There are two types of EV chargers: Level 1 and Level 2. The first type does not require installation, and can be plugged directly into an electrical outlet. Level 2 chargers, on the other hand, require heavy-duty electrical outlets and special installation.

Level 1 EV chargers don't require any special installation

Level 1 EV chargers are the most basic type, and do not require any special installation. They consist of a power receiver installed in the vehicle and a wall box connected to an electric source. Once connected to an electric source, the charging unit will provide between 35 and 40 miles of range per hour. Without a nozzle, these units can provide 11 kilowatts of power.Level 2 chargers are more powerful and use 240-volt electricity. They also offer faster charging, but require more installation. Standard wall outlets only provide 120 volts. However, 240-volt appliances, such as electric ovens, use 240-volt electricity. To install level 2 chargers, you will need to find an electrician to install them.

Plug directly into electrical outlet

If you plan to install an EV charger at home, you should make sure to choose a charging station outlet that is NEMA certified. The designation indicates the plug configuration and the number of wires and poles. It also indicates the amperage rating and voltage. The receptacle should not be too old and worn.In some areas, you'll find EV chargers that plug directly into an electrical outlet. You can use this type to install the charger in your garage or other non-exposed location. This type of charger is compatible with 240V outlets. In addition, some EVs include a cord that plugs into a wall outlet.If you want to install an EV charger in your home, you will first need an outlet that is NEMA 14-50. This type of outlet will allow you to install a Level 2 charger. The other type of charger will require a dedicated circuit and will need to be hardwired. Hardwired charging is more reliable and does not require a GFCI outlet.

Level 2 EV chargers require heavy-duty outlet

A Level 2 EV charger can recharge any electric vehicle to 100 percent overnight. In contrast, a Level 1 charger may not be enough to charge an all-electric vehicle overnight. For this reason, many EV automakers recommend installing a Level 2 charger at home. These chargers are relatively easy to install.These chargers are typically 240-volt outlets, which most homes have. The voltage used for Level 2 charging is not the most important aspect, since the current needed to recharge the batteries is just as important. The current that a level two charger requires ranges from 12 to 80 amps. Depending on the type of vehicle you have, charging at this level can extend the range of your EV by 5.5 to 60 miles. In addition to voltage, the current required for charging at a level two outlet depends on the model of the charging unit.Level 2 EV chargers require a heavy-duty outlet that can handle the load. The outlet needs to have a 240-volt supply and must be installed by a certified electrician. In addition, many state and federal utilities will offer incentives to encourage the use of this type of charger. For instance, the EvoCharge iEVSE Home Smart EV Charger is connected to a local utility and can even receive further rebates through the municipality.

Inductive charging equipment

Inductive charging is one of the newest technologies to emerge in electric vehicle charging. It uses magnetic resonance to provide energy to the EV, while parked, via a receiver embedded in the vehicle. This technology is gaining traction, especially among fleet vehicles, as it promises to reduce charging time while maximizing uptime.This technology works through a standardization process that includes both a transmitter pad installed in the driveway and a receiver pad in the vehicle. The SAE J2954 standard was developed to provide usable wireless charging at distances of between 10 and 25 centimeters, which accommodates the ground clearance of most production vehicles. It can provide a typical EV with 35 miles of range per hour while parked.Inductive charging is similar to Level 2 charging, but has higher power levels. Inductive charging equipment can be installed in homes for about $US3,500. The equipment is compatible with all types of EVs, and is ideal for fleet operations.

Tax credits for EV charger installation

Whether you are installing EV chargers at home or at work, there are two types of tax credits that you can take advantage of. The first one covers the hardware costs and the second one covers the installation costs. Both credit programs offer a 30% tax credit and are retroactive to the year you installed the chargers.The new tax credit for EV charger installations is retroactive, meaning that the credits are good for installations completed in 2017 and 2018. This credit does not expire until 2020, so you have time to plan your installation.