Electric Vehicles: Home Charging Solutions, the Time is Now!

With a vast number of people transitioning from gas-fueled automobiles over to Electric Vehicles (EVs), there are numerous factors that need to be considered to allow for a seamless conversion.  For most people, the biggest change will be the fact that they can no longer stop at their corner gas station to refuel.  Their options are now to charge their vehicle at their home (which can take a great deal of time) or find a public charging station close by (which will allow for a much faster charge, but there may be a lack of available charging stations).  Luckily, there is a middle ground.  EV owners have the ability to install a charging station at their home, while not as fast at charging as the public station, they are also not nearly as slow as the plug-and-play option that is the default.  These in-home upgraded charging solutions have become one of the most asked-for items on recent RessaBuilt projects!

What we have found most interesting about the fact that our clients are asking for in-home charging solutions is that the majority of them currently don’t own an EV.  What makes sense though is that since they are completing a home remodel/renovation project, this is the perfect opportunity to add this technology which will become the standard for all vehicles in the future.  We have begun recommending this option to our clients as we feel it is not only something essential for their homes in the future but also a great way to spread awareness of ways that we can have an impact on the environment!  Below, we have outlined some basic FAQs regarding EV home charging.

• There are three levels of EV charging solutions:
  • Level 1: Plug and play that comes with the vehicle (standard 120V, 16 AMP)
  • Level 2: Upgraded in-home charging station (240 V, up to 80 AMP)
  • Level 3: Public/Commercial fast charging station (500 V, 200 AMP)
• A consultation by a certified electrician will be necessary to determine whether your home's current load capacity will be sufficient to support a Level 2 charging station.
• There are three physical types of Level 2 charging stations. Where you keep your vehicle and the site-specific conditions of that location will determine which option is best for you:
  
  • Floor/Pedestal Mounted
  • Wall Mounted
  • Ceiling Mounted
• Level 2 charging stations come with many different capabilities and options. The prices can range from around $300 to past $1000.  It is best to do your research and determine which brand is going to be ideal for your personal situation.
• Don’t forget to investigate your regional tax incentives for owning an EV and purchasing a home charging station. There are great opportunities at both the state and federal levels to put some money back in your pocket!

Live long, and charge on!