EV Charger Installation – What to Expect
Many BC homeowners are wondering about the EV charger installation at home as electric vehicles (EVs) become more prevalent. In fact, BC leads the way in going electric.
Having an EV charger at home saves you from the hassle of searching for public chargers and ensures your vehicle is always charged and ready to go.
This article explores the steps involved in an EV charger installation, specifically focusing on:
- Mounting the EV charger
- Connecting the charger to your home’s power supply
- And testing the charger to ensure a safe and efficient setup
What Type of EV Charger Do You Need
Before we dive into the EV charger installation details, it’s important to understand the different types of EV charging stations for electric vehicles:
- Level 1 Charging Stations (L1) – These are standard EV chargers that use a 120V outlet and are typically used in residential settings.
- Level 2 Charging Stations (L2) – Offering faster charging, these require a 208-240V setup and are also commonly used in homes.
- Level 3 Charging Stations (L3 Fast Chargers) – These are high-speed EV chargers typically found in public charging stations.
NOTE: For residential use, Level 2 chargers are recommended
due to the balance between charging speed and cost-effectiveness.
Now that you know what EV charging station you should consider, let’s discuss what is involved in the installation process.
EV Charger Installation Process
Installing an EV charging station involves a few steps to ensure safety and functionality:
1. Mounting the EV Charger
Site Selection
The first step is selecting a suitable location for the charging station. The home EV charging station should be accessible, close to where your vehicle will be parked, and capable of housing the EV charger’s mounting equipment.
Charger Installation
Our certified electrician will mount the EV charger securely to the wall or a pedestal, installing it within the reach of your vehicle’s charging port. The area around the charger should be free of any obstructions to allow for easy access.
2. EV Connection Setup
Power Supply Connection
The EV charger is then connected to your home’s power supply. This step involves intricate electrical work to integrate the charger with your home’s existing electrical system safely.
The wiring and connections must comply with local electrical codes to prevent any risks. Our electricians can also help should you need an electrical panel upgrade.
Wiring Specifications
The wiring used for EV charging stations must be capable of handling the high-power demand. For outdoor installations, it is particularly important to use wiring that is rated for outdoor use and features strong insulation to withstand environmental conditions.
Typically, the wiring should be able to handle the expected load and be insulated to protect against moisture, temperature changes, and physical damage. Older homes may require wiring upgrades prior to the EV charger installation.
Compliance with Local & National Electrical Standards
The installation must comply with local electrical codes and national Canadian standards. Compliance includes proper grounding, adherence to safety clearances, and use of approved materials and methods. Verification of compliance is usually part of the electrical inspection process and must be confirmed by a licensed electrician to avoid legal and safety issues.
3. Testing the EV Charger Installation
System Checks
After installation, a comprehensive testing phase begins. This includes checking the electrical connections, ensuring that the charger communicates correctly with your electric vehicle model and that all components are functioning as expected.
Safety Inspections
The EV charger installation is also inspected to meet all safety standards. This might include a review by a local inspector to certify that the installation adheres to all regional electrical regulations.
User Testing & Training
After the installation, the homeowner must be comfortable using the new EV charging equipment. This includes demonstrating how to connect and disconnect the charger, how to read any displays or indicators, and how to use any associated mobile apps for monitoring or scheduling charging.
Ready to Install Your EV Charger?
Installing an EV charger in your home is a forward-thinking move that increases the convenience of owning an electric vehicle and enhances your BC property’s value.
Even though the EV charger installation must be completed by a certified electrician, we wanted you to understand the steps involved in the installation process.
Contact Premium Electric for expert EV charging station installation services. Our certified electricians will ensure your setup is done right, providing peace of mind and a quick, hassle-free charging experience.
Premium Electric is located in the Fraser Valley region of BC, servicing residential and commercial clients throughout the Lower Mainland including Surrey, Chilliwack, Abbotsford, and Mission.
Call us 24/7 at 604-308-6195 or email us directly to get a quote.
