There are more and more electric vehicles joining Calgary’s bustling city streets than ever before. And as a result, we’re seeing an influx of EV charger installations as more home and business owners are looking for powerful and efficient charging solutions to keep their vehicles on the road.
In order for EV chargers to effectively charge your vehicle, there is a chance that your electrical panel will need to be updated in order for your system to handle the increased demand.
Enter the team at 4-Star Electric! In today’s blog, our expert electricians will go over how electric vehicle charging affects your panel, signs an upgrade is needed, and both our panel upgrade and charger installation processes.
Our team has been leading the way in electric installation, repair, maintenance and innovation for over 35 years. Let’s begin!
How EV Chargers Work & How They Affect Your Electrical Panel
EV chargers come in three different types, suitable for a wide range of power options.
Level 1 – Standard Outlet
A Level 1 charger is just a fancy way of referring to the standard outlet power supply you already have in your home or business. These chargers will charge your vehicle, however it will take significantly longer because of its limited capacity. Most EV drivers will have to leave their vehicles charging for long periods of time, like overnight, to get a decent mileage out of their vehicle.
Level 2 – 240V Charger
Level 2 chargers are the most widely recommended option for our clients looking for fast and reliable charging. They’re more powerful than a standard outlet and can typically charge an average sized electric vehicle within 8 hours.
Level 3 – DC Commercial Grade Charger
DC chargers are the big charging stations you see in your grocery store parking lots or along rest stops on the highway. They involve multiple system upgrades and special permits, so you won’t usually see these in residential applications.
But for our Calgary Area commercial clients, these are a must have!
How EV Chargers Affect Your Electrical Panel
Most standard electrical panels installed in Calgary are 100 amps. Amps represent the measurement of electrical current. Our electricians typically use a ampmeter to gauge these levels, allowing them to determine the amount of electricity moving through a wire at a specific time. The amperage rating of an electrical panel indicates its maximum capacity for managing electrical current.
If you decide on a Level 1 charger, your current electrical panel should be able to handle the load just fine. But if you’re going Level 2 or higher, the required amperage is more than likely enough to max it out.
Having a panel with an insufficient power supply could result in tripped circuit breakers, overheating and damage to not only the panel itself, but any of your connected appliances and devices. Including that charger you just installed.
To prevent these risks we always begin our service with a comprehensive evaluation, more on that below!
Do I Need to Upgrade my Electrical Panel Before Installing an EV Charger?
Like we mentioned above, if your current panel is only rated for 100 amps, or if it’s over 25 years old, an upgrade might be needed in order to install your new EV charger or we might be able to install a load management device.
If you don’t upgrade your panel first, signs of problems will start to pop up pretty quickly, including:
- Flickering lights
- Power outages
- Sparking or smoking
- A panel that’s warm to the touch
All of these issues increase your risk for electrical fires, so it’s best to always consult with one of our electricians when considering an at-home EV charger.
4-Star Electric is also the home of Calgary’s most trusted electrical inspection. Our inspections protect safety and liability and are one of the best ways to protect your EV charger, electrical panel and electrical system as a whole.
During your inspection, your licensed electrician will conduct a detailed walk through of your home or business to visually inspect your entire electrical system, checking the panel, outlets, switches and wiring looking for any signs of wear and damage. Your electrician will also check voltage levels, test circuit breakers and verify electrical system functionality. This will allow them to accurately determine if your current system is set up to accommodate the additional load of an EV charger.
We’ll also pull any required permits and sign off on any major electrical renovation (like charger installation) so your project can get going sooner.
Benefits of Upgrading Your Electrical Panel Prior to EV Charger Installation
The major benefits of panel upgrades prior to EV charger installation include the ability to future proof your home, improve electrical safety and even lower your energy costs. By upgrading your panel before your EV charger installation, or any major electrical upgrade, ensures reliable and safe power for years to come.
Choose 4-Star For Unparalleled EV Charger Installation Service
Our EV Charger installation service ensures your EV is ready when you are.
What To Expect
Evaluation
Every EV charger installation service begins with an evaluation. Your personal, licensed electrician will conduct a thorough onsite assessment and inspect your home’s electrical system, as well as potential locations for your charger install.
Your electrician will perform a load analysis to determine if your current electrical panel can support the additional load of an EV charger. This includes evaluating the total household electrical demand and the specifications of your potential equipment.
Finally, your electrician will review local electrical codes and permit requirements to ensure installation will meet all necessary safety and regulatory standards.
Recommendation
Your electrician will then present suitable charger recommendations, such as a Level 1 or Level 2 charger, or a level 3 if you are a commercial client, based on your unique needs.
If your existing electrical panel cannot support the new charger, your electrician may recommend an upgrade, the installation of a sub-panel or a load management device to accommodate the additional load.
Finally a detailed cost and timeline estimate will be provided so you can prepare accordingly for installation.
EV Charger Installation
The installation area is prepared by identifying the specific locations for your charger, ensuring access for electrical connections, and setting up tools and materials. Your electrician will efficiently install the charger in the recommended location, following manufacturer guidelines.
After installation, your electrician will thoroughly test your EV charger to ensure it’s functioning properly.
Your electrician will also suggest scheduling regular electrical inspections to ensure performance and safety, long-term.
Finally, the work area will be cleaned and any old equipment or packaging will be removed. You can have total confidence in our team, we only install the most trusted equipment, and we’re proud to offer industry-leading repair and replacement guarantees, as well as 100% satisfaction guarantees.
4-Star Electric is your local expert in customer service
All our on-site team members are licensed electricians. Above and beyond the technical knowledge, we train our staff in customer service. Our people will communicate effectively with you, listen to your concerns, and always answer your questions.
Will be on time
Our electricians will always be punctual and respectful of your time. We know your business has its own schedule and that service work needs to be done at the right moments.
Will respect your business
When you call 4-Star Electric, you can expect an electrical expert that treats your business with total respect. We will always stay in our work areas and be respectful of your business’ privacy.
Are vetted and verified
4-Star Electric takes pride in taking the time to find the right team members and performs background checks on all of our staff. We are a DRUG-FREE company and conduct random drug tests on our team members. We take electrical safety seriously and make sure our electricians perform with clarity.
Always keep it clean and quiet
Our employees always wear shoe coverings when it is preferred, or conditions call for it. We will always clean up our work area and never leave without making sure you are 100% satisfied. We will always be as quiet as possible, especially during your business hours.
If you’ve just purchased your new EV and you’re wondering what the next step to take is to ensure powerful and efficient charging, give the friendly team at 4-Star Electric a call today. A new EV charger and upgraded electrical panel are the perfect first steps.
EV Charger Installation FAQs
Do I need to install a charger for my EV?
Technically you don’t need to. But if you’re using your electric vehicle every day or want fast charging, installing a level 2 dedicated charger is the way to go. Your car can be charged by a standard outlet, but it will take longer and the charge might not be as reliable, possibly leaving you stranded!
Is my EV compatible with any charger?
Most electric vehicles have adapters that allow them to use a variety of charging ports. Our expert electricians will help walk you through your charging options. And ensure the one you pick is compatible for your vehicle. Contact us today to learn more.
What are the charging options available from 4-Star Electric?
- Level 1 – standard AC power plug.
- Level 2 – dedicated EV charger
- Level 3 – DC commercial charger
Contact us today to explore which option is best for your property and vehicle.
Can I install an EV charger on my own?
Installing a dedicated EV charger should only be done by a professional electrician. This ensures safety and warranty compliance. Contact us today to schedule your installation inspection and appointment.