Is Your Home Ready for EVC Installation?
Buying an electric vehicle is an exciting prospect. With electric vehicle technology improving by the day, your new model will likely include bells and whistles you never even imagined. Add to that the fact that you never have to fill up at the gas station, and you are saving time and money in the long run. Before purchasing your electric vehicle, there are a few things to consider.
What To Consider Before Buying An Electric Vehicle
While charging an electric vehicle may seem as simple as bringing the car home and plugging it into an electrical outlet, there are several things to be aware of.
There are three types of electric vehicle chargers that you can use. The type of charger you need depends on your driving habits. Do you travel long distances? Are there charging stations at your workplace?
Level 1 Charger
These types of AC chargers are usually included in the purchase of your electric vehicle. They can be connected to the standard 120V wall outlet and do not require any special installation. Although seemingly convenient, this charging option only provides a range of three to eight kilometres of range, for each hour of charging time. This may be impractical for most users.
Level 2 Charger
Things speed up with a level 2 charger. These AC chargers provide 16 to 97 kilometres of range for every hour of charging time. The exact range will depend on the type of vehicle being charged, so you should check with the car manufacturer for a more accurate charging assessment.
These types of chargers are most commonly installed for residential use. They require a 208V or 240V dedicated wall outlet. These are the same electrical outlets that are used for major appliances in the home, like a dryer, air conditioner, or oven, so you may have to hire an electrician to get some electrical work done.
Level 3 Charger
The level 3 chargers are the fastest type of charger. They are DC chargers and are often found in public places such as shopping malls and are installed by many businesses. They are also known as fast chargers because they charge up to a range of 100 km within half an hour.
Prepare Your Home For An Electric Vehicle
If you are looking to install a Level 2 or Level 3 charger for residential electrical usage, you will need to hire an electrical contractor to install the necessary hardware.
Upgrade Your Electrical Panel
Remember a 240V electrical outlet must connect to a dedicated circuit on your electrical panel. With many of the older homes in St.Albert operating on dated 100 amp panels, these might not be sufficient for an electric vehicle charger. Consider a 200 amp panel upgrade. This will not only accommodate your electric charger but will likely provide a better and safer distribution of electricity throughout your home.
Do You Have a Trusted Electrician In St. Albert?
If you require an electrician for residential and commercial work, it is important to find a professional. Any type of electrical work is subject to strict electrical codes to ensure the safety of your home and family. Shoddy work can cause problems and even pose a fire hazard, so check their credentials.
Find a Company With Experience
How many years has the company been in business? It is important to hire an experienced electrician who understands all the elements of the job.
Do they have reviews? Customer feedback is a great way to assess their level of service.
Work With A Master Electrician
A Master Electrician has an advanced level of education and training. They offer a higher level of skill and experience in their trade, can pull permits when needed, are well-versed in electrical codes and safety regulations, and are professionals at project management.
Does The Company Offer Transparent Pricing?
There is nothing worse than receiving a bill that is much higher than you were expecting. Check for any hidden costs before you sign off on the job. Does the quoted price include everything, like fuel surcharges and dispatch fees? Are you able to get a full quote before any work begins?
Contact Your St. Albert Electrician For EVC Installation
If you are looking to buy an electric vehicle, contact your local master electrician in St. Albert for expert advice. We can install level 2 chargers within your home or level 3 chargers for businesses and municipalities.