As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to gain popularity, more and more homeowners are considering installing a residential electric vehicle charger. With a dedicated charger at home, EV owners can enjoy the convenience of charging their car overnight and waking up to a fully charged battery in the morning. In this article, we'll explore some of the key considerations when it comes to installing a residential EV charger.

Type of Charger
The first thing to consider is the type of charger you want to install. There are two main types of chargers: Level 1 and Level 2. Level 1 chargers use a standard 120-volt household outlet and can take up to 20 hours to fully charge a car battery. Level 2 chargers use a 240-volt outlet, which is similar to the outlet used for an electric stove or clothes dryer. A Level 2 charger can fully charge a car battery in 4-8 hours, depending on the car's battery size and charging capacity. Level 2 chargers are generally recommended for EV owners, as they offer faster charging times and are more convenient for daily use.

Electrical Capacity
Before installing a Level 2 charger, it's important to ensure that your home's electrical system can support it. A Level 2 charger requires a dedicated 240-volt circuit, which may require upgrading your electrical panel or adding a subpanel. You'll also need to make sure that your home's electrical service can handle the additional load. An electrician can help assess your home's electrical capacity and recommend any necessary upgrades.

Installation Location
Once you've determined the type of charger and assessed your home's electrical capacity, the next step is to choose a location for the charger. The charger should be installed in a location that is easily accessible for the car and within reach of the electrical service panel. It should also be protected from the elements and installed in a well-ventilated area. If you're not sure where to install the charger, consider consulting with an electrician or an EV charger installation professional.