Electrical Vehicle Charging Station Services in Los Gatos, CA
Driving an electric vehicle can be both more affordable and more convenient than owning a standard car. Instead of heading to the gas station to fill their cars or trucks with fossil fuels, drivers can head to Electrical Vehicle Charging stations to top off their batteries before heading down the road. There’s an even better solution for homeowners in Campbell, though: install an EV charging station at home.
What is a Home EVSE Charger?
Electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) chargers are like fuel pumps for electric vehicles. They supply the electricity required to keep these technologically advanced cars and trucks on the road. EVSE chargers can often be found at gas stations, stores, and even in public parking lots. Now, homeowners can also hire Electrical Vehicle Charging Services in Campbell, CA to install one in their own homes.
Types of ESVE Chargers
There are three levels of ESVE charging devices. Most home chargers are Level 1 or Level 2, and many of today’s electric vehicles come with Level 1 charging stations as part of a package deal. Here’s what homeowners need to know about each of the categories of ESVE chargers:
Level 1 Chargers
Level 1 EVSE chargers come standard with today’s electric vehicles and are designed to be plugged into normal household power outlets. They don’t require installation by an Electrician in Campbell, CA, but they’re not very effective. Level 1 chargers only supply a trickle charge, so it can take 20 hours or more to get the battery topped off completely.
Level 2 Chargers
Level 2 chargers require their own dedicated 240-volt circuits. As a result, they must be professionally installed by licensed electricians. The great thing about level 2 chargers is that they can top off most EV batteries in around three hours.
Level 3 Chargers
Level 3 chargers are standalone devices often found in public charging stations. They charge batteries extremely fast, adding up to 160 miles of driving range to a battery bank in just half an hour. The problem is, the technology underlying level 3 EVSE chargers is prohibitively expensive for most homeowners. Currently, they require an industrial-level power supply that just can’t be made available in a residential setting.
Installation Options
All level 2 EVSE chargers require a 240-volt hookup. They range in power draw from 30 to 80 amps. A 30 amp charger is sufficient for one vehicle, but households that need to charge multiple electric cars should install higher-amp chargers.
Some models of EVSE chargers can be installed outdoors, while others are designed exclusively for indoor use. Cord length also varies between different models. Most homeowners opt for longer cords that allow extra operational flexibility. Those who are having trouble determining what charging station will best meet their needs should call a qualified electrician for advice.
EVSE Installations and Replacements
Wondering what to expect during an EVSE installation? Every company follows slightly different protocols, but in general terms, they will follow these steps:
- Perform a full inspection of the equipment.
- Perform a site inspection.
- Make electrical system upgrades such as installing new dedicated 240-volt circuits with 8-AWG wiring.
- Install the EVSE charger in conformance with National Electrical Code and local code requirements.
- Inspect the system while a vehicle is charging to verify that it is functioning properly.
- Provide information about the EVSE charger and its features, usage, limitations, and maintenance requirements to the property owner.
If the household already has a level 2 EVSE charger and it needs to be replaced, the contractors will follow the same steps, but will also remove the original charger and dispose of it responsibly. The key to avoiding premature equipment failures and the need for frequent replacements is to provide the system with professional maintenance.
When to Replace EVSE Chargers
The EVSE charger will only need to be replaced when it approaches the end of its useful lifespan. Most experts estimate the useful lifespan of well-maintained EVSE chargers to be around ten years. If something goes wrong with the charging station, it’s best to schedule an inspection with a professional electrician to make sure it can’t be repaired before looking into replacements since repairs are often the more cost-effective option.
Contact a Qualified Electrician
Not all electricians have the specialized skills and training required to install and maintain electric vehicle charging stations. Property owners can trust the experts at Los Gatos Electric to get the job done right. These experts can tackle any home or commercial electrical installation, and they have plenty of experience working with customers to install EV charging stations. Give them a call today.