Have you noticed that the price of gas seems to increase every time you fill up? Many people are investing in EVs (electric vehicles) as a wise, green choice. An EV purchase promises long-term savings from the rising expense of fossil fuels. Not only is gasoline heavily taxed, especially in Vancouver; it’s taxing on the environment, too.
Buying an electric car is a win-win move— for your bank account and the planet. But it’s a big investment for most of us. Vehicles and homes are usually the two biggest investments we make.
An electrical fire in your garage or home can send your two biggest investments up in flames. So, when it comes to installing an EV charger at home, whether in your garage, or outside your home, it’s important to have experienced professionals do it right the first time.
The professionals at Stapleton Electric have a rigid checklist to determine an EV charger’s effect on your home’s electrical system. Our job is to make sure your EV charger gives you all the power you need all the time, safely and without taxing your existing electrical requirements.
Once you’ve decided on investing in an EV, it’s important to determine if your home’s electrical system is as ready as you are.
Here are 3 installation considerations that we use. For safety’s sake, so should you!
What’s your home’s capacity for an EV charger?
The most important consideration to give before having an EV charger is whether you have proper electrical service. We’re experienced in determining electrical loads in order to calculate the electrical capacity required for your EV charger– whether it’s a standard electric vehicle charger or a fast charger.
If your house can’t handle the extra load of a charger, you’ll need a new service drop. That means cutting off power to the house and installing a new meter and breaker panel.
Is your wiring up to standard?
An older home often means old wiring going to the garage might need to be replaced. If it’s a detached garage some distance from your house, you may need a larger cable that runs to the charger. But we’ll assess this and let you know before installation.
If you don’t have a garage, Stapleton Electric can install a charger in your driveway. For outdoor mounting, you’ll need a unit with a safety rating that allows it to properly stand up to rain, cold, and dust. We’ll ensure installation of the proper unit and safety rating.
Does your EV outlet comply with electrical codes?
Ignoring national and local codes always carries a very real risk of an electrical fire. Codes for EV chargers are no exception. Electrical codes determine where a charger can be mounted and what kind of wiring is required, among other requirements.
When it comes to any electrical installation, at Stapleton Electric, we do it “by the book”, following careful procedures from start to finish. Your home and your family are important to us. As professional electricians, we take our work seriously– always. Call us at 778-985-9395.
When you call, ask us about our HomeSafe Inspection Service, too. You’re also welcome to contact us online. We’ll ensure your home is fully — and safely — charged and ready for all your electrical needs.
