As the world shifts towards a greener and more sustainable future, electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming game-changers in reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change. As more people transition to electric mobility, installing an EV charging station at home becomes a necessary convenience. The electrician team from San Luis Obispo’s Electricraft, Inc. is the local go-to expert for installing residential, commercial, and public EV charging stations.
What’s the difference between home and public charging?
Home charging is much more convenient than driving to a public charging station and waiting for your EV to charge because:
- You can charge while relaxing, having dinner, watching TV, or getting caught up on chores around the house.
- It’s less expensive than public charging, even when a public station is conveniently located.
- Reduced reliance on gasoline can mean savings on fuel expenses.
- Home EV charging often involves slower charging rates than public stations. This slower charging can be gentler on your EV’s battery, potentially increasing its lifespan.
- The electricity that powers the home EV station can be generated from your home solar system, further reducing your carbon footprint.
Typically, home charging takes a little longer than public charging, but the positive trade-off is that home charging is much more convenient. It still takes time out of your schedule to visit a public charging station.
- An electric vehicle comes equipped with a Level 1 charger that works with a 120V circuit, but these are not very powerful and can take several hours to charge. A level 1 charger still might require some electrical work to place it in the ideal location.
- A Level 2 charger, which is available for residential use as well as installed at many public charging stations, can charge an EV within a few hours. The Level 2 charger does require a dedicated 240-volt circuit and must be installed by a licensed and trained electrician, such as San Luis Obispo’s Electricraft.
- Level 3 chargers are high-speed charges found in networks of public charging stations and can charge up to 300 miles within an hour.
Installing an EV charging station at home
Unless you are a trained electrician or electrical engineer, installing a home EV charging station is not a DIY project. Considerations include:
- The Level 1 charger that comes with the EV can be plugged into a 120V circuit, but there may not be a conveniently located outlet. Some rewiring may be necessary to place the charger in the best location. It’s not advisable to use any type of extension cord for EV charging.
- A Level 2 charger requires installation by an experienced, licensed electrician.
- Your current home electrical panel may not be able to safely handle the extra load. Whether you opt to use the Level 1 charger or prefer the more powerful Level 2, it’s important to get your electrical system assessed first.
- Consult with a licensed electrician to determine if your current electrical panel can handle the additional load of an EV charger. Upgrading your electrical panel may be necessary to support the charging station’s power requirements.
- When permits or authorization from a homeowner’s association are required a licensed electrician is the best person to provide the technical information that is needed to show the charging station meets code and other requirements.
The local electrician team from San Luis Obispo’s Electricraft has all of the licenses, permits, and experience necessary to safely install EV charging stations. With hundreds of residential, commercial, and public charging stations installed, Electricraft is the top local choice. The team is familiar with electrical codes and safety requirements and has a proven record for quality electrical services on the Central Coast.
Serving the residential and commercial electrical needs of the Central Coast since 1984, no job is too small or too big. The services meet a wide range of electrical and solar power needs for residences, commercial and industrial buildings, and public works projects.
- The company has installed small and large solar systems for residential, commercial, and public works projects.
- Electrical services include new construction and inspecting, troubleshooting, and repairing electrical systems using the latest infrared technology and diagnostic tools.
Electricraft is proud to continue the tradition of providing excellent electric services, and the principles of:
- Assuring professional on-time, qualified service at a fair price.
- Completing the work right the first time.
- Mobilizing and completing projects on time and within budget.
Electricraft is available 24 hours, 7 days a week for emergencies.
