Electrical Equipment & Hardware, EV Chargers, Installations
Considering at home EV charger installation? Check out our latest blog to learn everything you need to know about how it will affect your home’s electrical system. From the different types of chargers, to potential panel and system upgrades, the EV specialist’s at 4-Star Electric have you covered! Read on.
As EV's become an increasingly popular choice for Calgary’s eco-conscious drivers, the convenience of charging at home is more appealing than ever. But before you plug in let our experienced electricians go over how EV chargers could affect your home electrical systems.
From choosing the right charger to upgrading your panels and other infrastructure, this guide will ensure a seamless transition into the world of at home EV charging.
The 4-Star Electric team is well-versed in everything EV, and we’re Calgary’s preferred choice for installation and system upgrades. We work within your schedule to offer services to both our residential and commercial clients.
We’re about to shed some light on EV charging, read on!
The Basics Of EV Charging
Unlike regular engines, EVs don’t burn fuel, they run by utilizing stored energy in rechargeable batteries. Most EVs have two batteries, one that powers the motor and the other that powers accessories such as lighting.
And in order to keep these batteries fully charged, drivers must take advantage of either public charging stations or at-home chargers.
The Different Types Of EV Chargers
Level 1 - Standard 120V Outlet
A level 1 EV charger is just a standard outlet, located in either your garage or on the outside of your home. These outlets will charge your vehicle, but due to their limited capacity it usually takes longer. We typically recommend leaving your vehicle to charge overnight, or only using these types of outlets for smaller EVs.
Level 2 - 240V Charging Station
Level 2 EV chargers are the most popular choice for Calgary homeowners. This type of charger is more powerful, which is beneficial if your EV is your primary vehicle and you’re driving it daily. It has significantly faster charging, getting you road ready in as little as a few hours.
DC Fast Charging
DC fast chargers aren’t typically found in residential applications, they are what power the commercial charging stations you’ll find in parking lots or in rest stops by the highway.
While you can technically install it at home, it requires a significant amount of power, multiple system upgrades, permits and approvals, so we don’t usually recommend this to our residential customers.
Assessing Your Current Electrical System - The Impact of EV Chargers
When considering EV charger installation it’s important you’re familiar with your home’s current electrical system capacity.
Most residential homes in the Calgary area have a capacity of 100-200 amps in their electrical panel, which is the volume of electricity flowing through the wires.
If you just plan to utilize a level 1 charger, your current system will be able to handle the load and no panel upgrades should be required. However, if you choose to install a level 2 or above, our team will recommend an interlocking device, panel upgrade or home rewiring to ensure electrical reliability and safety.
Another important consideration is that installing an EV charger will have an impact on your monthly utility bills due to increased usage. If you’re worried about usage costs, opt to stay with a level 1 outlet, and only charge your vehicle when absolutely necessary. Or if choosing a level 2, connect it to smart technology that can monitor usage and alert you when you’ve reached a certain level.
Finally, it’s always a good idea to schedule an electrical assessment from one of our dedicated electricians before any installation, and we’re proud to offer certified electrical inspections in and around the Calgary area.
A certified home inspection is one of the most effective ways to protect your home and family from the risks of electrical fires. Inspections are also often required for insurance purposes when making major upgrades to your home, including EV charger installation. So call us today!
Trust 4-Star Electric For Your EV Charger Installation
Rest easy knowing you're in good hands with 4-Star’s team of EV specialists!
We’re trained to quickly identify and address electrical system issues that may hinder installation and provide immediate solutions.
We’re also proud to offer our 100% satisfaction guarantee, we’ll never accept payment until you’re completely satisfied with our work. We’ll always walk you through our process and confirm your approval before starting any electrical work for your charger installation.
We also have an industry-leading repair and replacement guarantee. If an electricial component should fail within the first 3 years, we’ll replace it. PLUS if any charger we install fails, we’ll replace it at no extra cost.
4-Star Electric consistently provides top-tier residential electrical services throughout the Calgary area. With upfront pricing, experienced and trusted electricians, and leading guarantees, you can be confident that you're receiving the quality EV installation service you deserve.
Benefits Of Installation
Benefits of installing an at home EV charger include:
- Improved convenience.
- Increase in property value.
- Lower impact on the environment.
- Access to federal and provincial rebates.
There are a number of rebate programs available for those considering EV charger installation.
In 2019, the Federal Government initiated a reward program for qualifying electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. This program does not directly fund the installation of EV charging stations, but it is a great way to save money so that you can put it towards installing a Level 2 charger. Click here to learn more!
Additionally, if you’re a FortisAlberta customer, you can join their EV Smart Charging Pilot via Optiwatt and receive up to $150 in rewards.
As Alberta drivers continue to move in a more sustainable direction, at home EV charging is an exciting step. With the right knowledge and preparation, you can ensure you and your home’s electrical systems are ready to handle the demand!
Plug in and power up with 4-Star Electric, our team is standing by to answer any and all EV charging questions. See you out on the road!
Frequently Asked Questions About EV Charging
Do I need a home charger for my EV?
For those who want to use their EV daily, or even weekly, a reliable power source is crucial. While there are some public charging options available, these power sources tend to be less practical than charging at home. Installing a reliable charging station at home is the best way to ensure you get from A to B.
Is my EV compatible with any at-home charger?
Most EVs have adapter cables and connections that allow them to use a variety of charging ports. During the installation process, our electricians will ensure that we’re familiar with your EV so we can recommend the appropriate equipment.
Can I install my own EV charger?
EV charger installations should only be done by a licensed, experienced electrician. This is not only for your safety, but the safety of your home and your EV! DIY installation may also void your charger’s warranty.
