How to Install an Electric Car Charger in the Garage？
Thinking of installing an electric car charger in your garage? It’s a super convenient way to keep your electric car charged and ready to go. Next, I’ll walk you through each step of installing an electric car, ensuring your charger installation is safe, effective, and perfectly suited to your daily charging needs.
Can I Install an EV Charger in My Garage?
Of course, you can install an EV charger in your garage, and it’s a great location, but you’ll need to make sure your garage’s electrical system is up to the task. You’ll probably need a dedicated 240V line to power an EV Level 2 charger, which is the fastest charging option for a home charging station. However, you’ll want to have a professional electrician check it out to make sure everything is up to code and can safely handle the load. They’ll sort out the correct wiring and everything so you can charge smoothly and keep your setup safe.
What Types of EV Chargers Can I Install in My Garage?
Are you thinking about choosing the right electric car charger for your garage, there are several different types of electric car chargers that you can install in your garage, all of which offer different speeds and features for charging your electric car:
Level 1 Charger
This EV AC charger uses a standard 120V household outlet and is the slowest EV charger. It is typically used for overnight charging or occasional EV driving. It can take anywhere from 8 to 24 hours for a full charge, but the exact time is determined by the size of the vehicle’s battery.
Level 2 Charger
This is the most common option for home car charging stations and requires a 240V outlet. EV Level 2 chargers are much faster than Level 1 chargers and will allow you to fully charge your EV’s battery in 4-6 hours. They’re a reliable choice for daily driving because they offer a good balance of speed and energy efficiency.
DC Fast Chargers
DC fast chargers, also known as Level 3 EV chargers, have higher power requirements and are more costly, so they’re not as common in home installations. However, they are rapid EV chargers that can charge your EV battery to 80% in 20-30 minutes. However, their installation will involve major electrical upgrades, so they are more suited for use in commercial or industrial environments, as well as commercial EV chargers or public EV charging stations.
What Are the EV Charger Installation Requirements?
To ensure the safety of installing an electric vehicle charger in a garage, pay attention to the following requirements:
- Electrical Capacity: You’ll want to make sure your house can handle the extra power demand from an EV charger. For example, check to see if your electrical panel can provide a new 240V circuit for the charger.
- Proper Wiring: You’ll need some sturdy wiring that won’t overheat from the power the charger is pulling. For most Level 2 chargers, you’ll need a 240V line and fairly thick wire, like 6- or 8-gauge, but it’s up to the wire to determine how far you’ll need to pull it.
- Circuit Breaker: You’ll have to have a dedicated circuit breaker for this to be safe. You’ll want a 40- or 50-amp double-pole breaker that matches the needs of your charger.
- Charger Type and Placement: Choose a convenient spot for your charger to park, so plugging it in is a breeze.
- Permits and Inspections: Check to see if you need permits from your local city or town. You may want to do an inspection after everything is installed to make sure everything is working and up to code.
- Professional Installation: You’ll want to have a qualified electrician handle the installation. Because, they can ensure that everything is done correctly, from assessing your home’s electrical setup to the actual installation.
Meeting these requirements will ensure your EV charger installation is safe and reliable, and provides fast and efficient charging for your electric vehicle in your garage.
How to Install an EV Charger in the Garage?
Install an electric car charger in your garage and you can always use your electric car. Here is a simple guide on how to install it：
Choose the Right Charger
First, you need to buy a Level 2 charger, like PIWIN’s Level 2 Electric Vehicle Charger. It charges much faster than a standard charger. You just have to make sure it fits your car and that your garage has a 240V unit to handle it.
Check Electrical Capacity
First, have a good electrician check your home’s electrical system. You may need to beef up your home’s electrical system to 200 amps to handle the EV charger, especially if you want to avoid surprises later.
Get the Necessary Permits
Be aware that you may need to get some permits from your local city. This ensures that installing the EV charger is legal and up to code, which not only guarantees your installation but may even be important for your insurance.
Install a 240V Outlet (If Needed)
If you don’t already have a 240V outlet where you need it, you’ll have to install one first. It involves some serious wiring, so it’s best to have it done by a professional who knows how to do it safely.
Mount the Charger
Find the best spot on the garage wall that’s easily accessible from the car. Don’t stretch the cable too long. Secure the charger at a suitable height and make sure it’s easy to plug in and out.
Connect the Charger to Power
Once you’ve completed the above steps, it’s time to connect the charger to your home power supply. This is where making safe electrical connections and setting up dedicated circuit breakers comes in. If you’re not completely confident with electrical DIY, definitely consider enlisting the help of an electrician.
Test the Installation
Once everything is installed and connected, it’s time to test the charger to make sure it’s working properly. Connect your electric car to the charger using the charging cable and watch to see if the vehicle starts charging and the charger’s indicator lights are working properly.
Final Inspection
Depending on where you live, you may need formal approval from your building inspector. This ensures that everything is installed correctly and safely.
Safety Checks
When dealing with electrical installations, keep the charging area clean and dry. Regular inspections for any wear or damage can prevent bigger problems later.
How Much to Install an Electric Car Charger in the Garage?
There are a range of costs associated with installing an EV charger in your garage, but the costs vary for different types of home charging stations. Here are some of the costs for installing an EV home charging station:
- Level 1 Chargers: These types of chargers simply plug into a regular 120-volt outlet, so if you have one in your garage, you don’t have to spend money to install one. If not, installing one will cost around $300.
- Level 2 Chargers: Level 2 charging stations require a 240-volt outlet, so you may need to upgrade the electrical system in your garage. The cost of the upgrade will range from $750 to $2,600, which includes purchasing the charger and installing it. The charger alone may cost you $350 to $900, and then paying for the installation work and any additional costs may cost you another $400 to $1,700.
- Additional Costs: If your house doesn’t already have the power requirements for a Level 2 charger, you may also need to spend some money to upgrade your electrical equipment, such as adding new circuit breakers or additional wiring. This can add up to quite a bit of cost, especially if there’s a lot of work to do.
Pros and Cons of Installing an EV Charger in a Garage
There are both pros and cons to having an electric car charger in your garage. Here are some of the main pros and cons:
Pros
Convenience: Charge overnight in your own garage, always ready to go.
Increased Home Value: This can boost property appeal and market value.
Faster Charging: Level 2 chargers offer quicker charging than public stations.
Cost Savings: Typically cheaper than public charging, especially during off-peak hours.
Cons
Initial Costs: High upfront expense for the charger and potential electrical upgrades.
Space Requirements: Needs dedicated space, not suitable for everyone.
Underutilization: This may not pay off if you frequently charge elsewhere or drive little.
Maintenance: Requires upkeep and may encounter technical issues.
Conclusion
Installing an EV charger in your garage not only makes your daily use of your EV easier and more efficient, but you can also skip public charging stations and enjoy the convenience and reliability of charging in your own garage. In addition, it simplifies your daily life and enhances your EV ownership experience.
