If you have recently purchased an electric vehicle and need faster charging speeds to match the demands of your commute, it may be worth installing a Level 2 charger in your home. Though it may seem simple to install a charger in your home, there are many crucial considerations to keep in mind to ensure that it is installed correctly. As leading providers of residential electrical solutions, the team at Expert Electric understands how complicated electric car chargers can be. That is why our team has compiled a guide on installing an electric car charger in your home to help you get the job done right.
Please note that this guide only applies to installing a charger in a single-family home or townhome. The steps for condos and apartments are significantly different.
Learn about the best electric car charger brands.
How to Install an Electric Car Charger in Your Home
To ensure that your charger is installed correctly, we strongly recommend hiring a professional electrician that has completed the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program. Follow the steps below to ensure that your charger is installed correctly:
1. Determine Your Home’s Eligibility
Contact your municipality or Technical Safety BC to ensure that your home is eligible for an electric vehicle charger installation.
2. Confirm that you Have Sufficient Electrical Service and Panel Space
To ensure that your charger delivers reliable performance without consuming too much power, you will need to check to see if your home has enough electricity following to support it. Once this has been confirmed, you will then need to ensure that there is enough space on your electrical panel to accommodate a circuit breaker for the EV charger. If there is not enough space, you will need an electrician to upgrade your electrical panel and wiring.
3. Purchase a Suitable Charger
Choose an EV charger that is suitable for your vehicle. If you are planning on applying for a rebate, ensure that you are selecting a model that qualifies for one.
4. Hire an Electrician to Obtain Permits and Install the Charger
Once the charger has been purchased, it is time to contact a professional electrician to obtain permits and install it. A professional electrician will ensure that your charger installation is organized, effective, and safe.
5. Apply for a Rebate Once the Installation is Approved
After the EV charger has been installed, it must be inspected by your municipality or Technical Safety BC. Most electricians will arrange to have this inspection performed. After the installation has been approved, you can then apply for a rebate on your charger to get up to 50% of the purchase price back.
To learn more about electric car chargers for your home and our other residential electrical solutions, get in touch with the team at Expert Electric! We can be reached at 604-681-8338 and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
