EV Charger

many homeowners are considering installing an EV charger to make charging more convenient.

Is it necessary? Let’s find out.

A dedicated circuit is an electrical circuit that is reserved for a specific purpose, with its own circuit breaker in your electrical panel. It is used solely for one appliance or machine to ensure that large appliances that draw a lot of power do not overload your home’s electrical system. For EV charging, this means having a circuit that only powers the charger and nothing else.

The main reasons an EV charger needs a dedicated circuit are safety and efficiency. EV chargers, especially those designed for faster charging speeds like the 240-volt chargers, draw a significant amount of electricity. Sharing a circuit with other appliances could lead to circuit overloads and potential tripping of circuit breakers, which can be hazardous.

Having a dedicated circuit for your EV charger installation provides the charger a steady flow of electricity without any dips or interruptions that could occur if other appliances were drawing power from the same circuit. This setup not only protects your electrical system but also extends the life of your electric vehicle’s battery by ensuring it receives a consistent charge.

There are various types of EV chargers, commonly referred to as Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 or DC Fast Chargers. Most home installations involve Level 2 chargers, which require a 240-volt outlet. These chargers are significantly faster than the Level 1 chargers that typically come with your vehicle and can be plugged into any standard outlet. However, compatibility among different EV chargers varies, as not all vehicles are cross-compatible. This means that not every type of charger is compatible without the appropriate adapter.

The process of car charger installation involves several key steps. First, our licensed electrician will assess the current electrical system and determine the best location for the charger installation with client's preference spot, whether that’s a wall or a standalone post. When determining the location for an EV charger, our team considers the proximity to your vehicle’s charging port and ensures it’s within reach without stretching the cable. Our electrician will install any necessary wiring and components, including the dedicated circuit, and double-check that everything is up to code and safe for use.

While public charging stations offer convenience when you’re on the road, having a home EV charger on a dedicated circuit means you can charge your electric vehicle overnight and start each day with a full battery. Home charging is not only more convenient but often cheaper than relying on public charging stations, especially if you consider the cost of fast charging.

At Smart Wave Electric, we understand the growing needs of electric vehicle owners. Our team of professional electricians is experienced in all aspects of charger installation and electric vehicle support infrastructure. We install your EV charging station to the highest safety standards and inform you about the operation and maintenance of your new charging system.