Electric vehicles and solar energy are an excellent combination. Thus, many of your solar clients are likely also interested in installing an EV charger at home. After all, zero-emissions vehicles and plug-in hybrid cars are soaring in popularity.
Although most electric models include level I chargers, it can take 24 hours for a full charge. This is because they use a typical wall outlet and 120-volt power. Therefore, many electric vehicle owners install level II EV chargers at home for shorter charging times and faster charging speeds.
Most level II chargers take 4 – 6 hours to recharge a depleted battery, making them far more convenient. Installing an EV charger can also increase a house's value and make it more desirable on the market. As the EV market grows, installing electric vehicle charging stations at home is becoming more widespread.
This demand is opening up a new service offering for many solar companies that can often install both an electric vehicle charger and a solar power system at the same time. Let’s explore what solar installers need to know to get involved in installing home chargers.
What Is Needed to Install An EV Charger At Home?
Although level I chargers require no modifications and are commonly included with the vehicle, level II chargers require 240 volts. Sometimes, the home’s electrical system needs upgrades and notifications to install a charging station at home.
For example, a dedicated circuit is helpful to avoid tripping a breaker. Typically, installing a home EV charger entails using a dedicated 240-volt line to the garage. The National Electrical Code requires the electrical circuit to be rated for 25% greater amperage than the charger’s output.
For homes with level II car chargers, 200-amp service is needed. If the home has a 100-amp electrical panel, the electrician will need to upgrade the service to at least 200 amps.
Also, clients need to purchase electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), also known as a charging dock. Some of the leading manufacturers of EVSE include Siemens, ChargePoint, Bosch, Clipper Creek, Pulsar and Amazon Basics. There is even a SolarEdge inverter that has an EV charger integrated with it. Charger manufacturers offer different warranties, and they typically range between 1 and 3 years.
What Kind Of Home EV Charging Station Is Best
If an EV owner chooses to charge their vehicle with a level I charger, it rarely involves electrical work unless a garage currently doesn’t have power. Typically, homeowners will use electricians to install a level II home EV charger because it requires a 240-volt line, similar to what many electric ranges, clothes dryers, or water heaters use. Level III chargers are usually prohibitively expensive for residential applications.
There are many level II charger models to choose from. Experts typically recommend purchasing an EVSE with at least 30 amps connected to a circuit that can handle at least 40 amps. Although many electric cars today can get by with fewer amps, having a higher-amp charger helps prepare the home for future electric vehicles that might require more amps. Although lower-amp chargers typically cost less, they may also charge EV batteries more slowly.
It is also important to consider the length of the cord on the home EV charger. Many units come with a 15-foot cord, which might not be sufficient depending on the electric car's charging port location.
Some home EV charging stations also have advanced connectivity capabilities with Wi-Fi that allow homeowners to monitor or control the charging process from a smartphone. These smart capabilities might also enable EV drivers to charge their vehicles during off-peak times when lower-cost electricity rates are available.
This occurs when electric utilities offer time-of-use rates, which are higher in times of peak energy demand. Often, prices are lowest in the middle of the night, when many EV drivers are recharging their batteries. However, not all utilities offer such a rate structure, and some require customers to opt into this pricing model.
Where to Install an EV Charger at Home
One common hurdle with installing an EV charger is deciding on a location. In some cases, your customers will already have an ideal location in mind. It is helpful to consider where the charge port is located on the vehicle and the parking situation at the household. Also, the cord on some chargers is longer than others, so this is an important consideration when selecting products. Depending on the layout of the property, a longer cord might make it far easier to plug-in. Conducting a feasibility study can determine if the property is well-suited for a charger.
Home EV Charger Installation Incentives And Rebates
Keep in mind that there could be federal and local incentives that your customers might be able to use to lower the total cost of installing an EV charger. Often, these programs are administered by the state or local utility companies, so they vary widely.
Also, examine the requirements carefully for incentive programs. For example, many are only available to charging stations that are publicly available or are commercial charging stations. Knowing the incentives in your area is helpful in educating potential customers and helping them take advantage of programs if they exist.
Costs To Install An EV Charger At Home
The cost of completing such projects depends on a variety of factors. In some cases, the customer already owns a level II charger and merely wants to hire someone to install it. Also, if the site is prewired to accept 240-volt power, this reduces the charger installation costs. Typically, an EV permit is not required to install the EVSE except for multi-family residential and commercial projects.
The cost of a home EV charger ranges from about $200 – $1,000, depending on the model and abilities. The rate for a licensed electrician varies between $50 – $100 per hour plus additional materials. For example, homeowners might need a charger mounting post to install a charger outdoors. Therefore, an installation can cost several hundred dollars to a couple thousand.
Although the upfront cost may be daunting, EV drivers will save money by not fueling up. In addition, as gasoline prices increase, the savings will be greater over time. Reminding customers of the advantages of long-term cost savings can make the investment look more appealing.
Do I Need An Electrician To Install An EV Charger At Home?
A licensed electrician should install vehicle charging equipment and any necessary electrical upgrades. In addition, there are some training programs for electricians to fine-tune their EVSE skills. For example, the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP) offers training and certification programs, and some manufacturers provide training courses specific to their products.
Best EV Chargers for Homes
There are numerous models to choose from when installing an EV charger, but here are a few of the most popular options.
ChargePoint Home Flex Electric Vehicle Charger: This charger is highly recommended and is available on Amazon. It offers smart charging features and is compatible with various electric vehicles.
Grizzl-E Charger: This compact and lightweight charger is known for its portability and ease of use. It offers a reliable charging solution for home EV charging needs.
J+ Booster 2: This charger can be used both as a home charging station and a mobile charging cord. It provides flexibility and convenience for charging your electric vehicle.
How Long Does It Take To Install an EV Charger at Home?
The installation time for installing an EV charging station can vary depending on various factors, such as the complexity of the installation, the electrical system's readiness, and any necessary upgrades. On average, installation may take a few hours to complete.
Getting Started Installing Home EV Charging Stations
Many EV owners are craving more convenient charging options than ever before. As a result, level II chargers at home are very desirable. For solar professionals, this opens up new service offering options, including installing electric vehicle charging stations. A licensed electrician is needed to install the electric car charger and is often already on staff at solar companies.
Installing EV chargers is another way to gain solar leads because many Tesla, Leaf, and Chevy Bolt owners are also interested in using renewable energy. EV drivers often make their purchasing decisions based on a desire to join the clean energy movement and reduce their reliance on fossil fuels.
Interested in learning more? GreenLancer is an online marketplace where you can shop for EV charging station permits, design, and engineering services with fast turnaround and streamlined communication.