As more electric and hybrid cars hit the streets, knowing where to recharge them can become an issue. Unless, that is, you have a charging station at your home or office. And getting one may not be as hard (or expensive) as you think.
Your Home May be Charger-Ready
As of 2016, Denver and other locations require that any new residential construction include provisions for Level 2 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.
At minimum, residential garages and carports must have sufficient electrical conduit installed to enable 240-volt, 40-amp wiring for a charging station to be easily pulled to an outlet for future installation. That means that if your residence was built after 2016, you probably are ready to add a car charger. But unless an EV charger is already installed, there’s more work to do.
Types of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
There are three types of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.
|
|
Level 1 EV Charger |
Level 2 EV Charger |
Level 3 EV Charger |
|
Wiring Needed |
Uses 120-volt cord plugged into wall outlet. |
Requires 240-volts on dedicated circuit |
480-volt service for public/commercial charging |
|
Estimated EV Range per Charge* |
About 40 miles with overnight charge |
30-80 miles per hour of charging |
40 miles per 10-minute charge |
|
Service Needed |
GFCI outlet and may require service upgrade |
Permit, licensed electrician and possible service upgrade |
Requires special equipment and licensed electrical installation |
* Range will vary depending on EV vehicle type. Estimates are for typical EV passenger cars.
Unless your driving needs are limited, you will probably want a Level 2 charging station. The 240-volt service is comparable to that used for electric ranges, water heaters, and clothes dryers.
Installing an EV Charging Station
Installing EV charging stations to existing structures requires running new conduit and wiring to an outlet. It can involve panel upgrades, adding extra electrical service, and breaking into walls. If your garage or carport isn’t attached, it could also require burying a line from your service entrance. Even if your builder has run conduit, adding a 240-volt line and outlet should be left to professionals.
Allstar Electrical Services has helped Coloradans increase efficiency while adding comfort and convenience to their homes and businesses for over 15 years. To learn more about the many ways upgraded electric services and emerging technologies can improve your home or business, visit our website or give us a call at (303) 399-7420. While you’re there, browse through our blog for timely articles and handy tips.