Electric vehicles (commonly called EVs) are increasingly popular as new and compelling models come to market. Eliminating fuel costs, less car maintenance, reducing energy footprint, and avoiding gas stations are some of the many reasons why people choose to go electric.
If you’re one of the 2.6 million (and counting) Americans who have purchased an EV, the licensed electricians at Jason Wright are here to help you install your at-home electric car charging station. The right charging station in your home can make all the difference between a slow-to-charge headache and a joy to drive! Here is everything you need to know about the types of charging stations and the installation process.
What are Electric Vehicle Charging Stations?
Charging your electric vehicle (EV) is, surprisingly, not too different from how you power your phone, tablet, or computer. An electric car is battery-operated, similar to our smaller devices, and requires electrical power for charging. However, an EV charger is much larger, specifically designed to plug into a designated carport to charge the car battery, and requires more than a typical wall outlet.
Hiring a licensed electrician to assemble the charging equipment is essential for a successfully installed electric vehicle charging station at home.
Types of EV Charging Stations
There are three main electric vehicle charging station types: Level one, level two, and level three. Let’s explore what makes each one unique.
Level One
A level one charging cable is typically included with the purchase of your new electric car. This basic cable type uses a 120-volt household outlet and is the most affordable option. However, level one chargers are relatively low voltage, which means it can take 30 or more hours to charge the vehicle’s battery fully. If your vehicle’s battery is designed to hold its charge for around 200 miles of travel, you may have a long wait before you can operate your car on a full charge.
Level Two
Level two charging stations are the most common. These require a higher circuit, usually equivalent to an electric clothes dryer. Due to the increased voltage, a licensed electrician must install a level two charger to eliminate potential dangers. Using a level two EV charger, you can fully charge your car’s battery in approximately 10 hours. This means you can confidently charge your electric vehicle to a full battery overnight and be ready for the day ahead.
Level Three
Level three chargers are known for their super speedy charge time. These can charge 80% of an electric car’s battery in about 20 minutes, dramatically decreasing the wait time. Level three chargers are typically commercial grade and the most expensive option, with installation often exceeding $45,000. Most homeowners are unlikely to choose level three chargers for personal, at-home use, but it may be an option for some needs.
Types of EV Charging Stations
If you’re looking to install an at-home car charging station, the Jason Wright team is here to help! As technology continues to evolve and electric vehicles become even more prevalent, EV chargers allow for a convenient and cost-effective experience.
From the moment we opened our doors in 1995, our licensed electricians have delivered concierge-style, personal service to discerning customers in the Kansas City metro. With our mission at the core of everything we do, we’ve created a company that provides a roll-your-sleeves-up approach to electrical work with personalized care for our customers, no matter the project.
From smoke alarms and lighting to bath fans and at-home car charging stations, if it’s in your Kansas City metro area home and requires electricity, we are thrilled to help! How can we serve you? Contact us today.