Electric Vehicle Chargers
So you just bought your first Tesla or other electric vehicle because residential charging is convenient and become inexpensive over the years. Charging your EV in a garage at home allows you to take advantage of low and stable residential electricity rates. The cost to run your car during the year can be less than running an air conditioner during the summer to stay cool. Let’s quickly break down the advantages to charging your vehicle at home with proper equipment.
You will never have to rely on a gas station to refuel your car; just remember to plug it in at home. Fuel costs for EVs are significantly lower than for gasoline and diesel vehicles. Based on the national average of 13.84 cents/kwh, to fully charged all-electric vehicle with a 250 mile range it would cost about $12 and a 150 mile range for $6. In comparison, over the past ten years, U.S. regular gasoline prices have fluctuated from below $1.50 to over $4, squeezing annual household budgets by as much as $1,500 per average passenger car. Your utility could offer special off-peak rates and your costs may be even lower. Find out if your utility offers special incentives for EV owners.
EQUIPMENT TO CHARGE AT HOME
Charging at home is easy a Level 1 electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) or the slightly more complex Level 2 EVSE. Charging with Level 2 EVSE is faster and can be more convenient, but requires special equipment that is more expensive to install than Level 1. For both types of EVSE, you should store the charging cord securely so it is not damaged; check the accessible EVSE parts periodically for wear and tear.
Level 1 EVSE
Level 1 EVSE provides charging through a 120 volt (V) AC plug. Level 1 adds about 2 to 5 miles of range to a vehicle per hour of charging time. Charging with Level 1 EVSE will not require any special equipment besides an electrical power outlet, but it would require a dedicated branch circuit. Make sure the circuit does not supply other appliances such as refrigerators or lights before plugging an EV into an outlet. Our experts at MH Electric can locate these circuits or create a new one that won’t be overloaded and save you money.
Level 2 EVSE
Level 2 EVSE provides charging through a 240 V AC plug similar to appliances like clothes dryers and electrical ovens. Level 2 adds about 10 to 60 miles of range to a vehicle per hour of charging. Level 2 EVSE requires installation of special charging equipment as well as a dedicated electrical circuit from 20 to 100 amps. The price of Level 2 residential EVSE varies, but typically ranges from $500 to $2,000 before installation and state or utility incentives. MH Electric provides competitive rates with professional technicians. Check if your state or utility offers incentives for EVSE.
For homes that are recently new, installation is usually relatively inexpensive. However, it can be substantial if an electrical service upgrade is required. As EVSE installations must comply with local, state, and national codes and regulations, be sure to work with a licensed electrical contractor. MH Electric will make sure everything is up to standard and follows all national codes and regulations before installation. MH Electric is an expert in pulling permits and working with city inspectors. Our electrical work is always done to code and you can be sure it will pass inspection. Call or email us with any questions related to permits or inspections.
CHARGING IN Condo/Townhouse
EV charging stations for multi-unit dwellings, such as condos or apartments, provide owners with a unique way to help attract and retain residents and prepare for the future. MH Electric knows how and where to place the EV chargers while working with inspectors to make sure all regulations are met.
We have the experience and relationships with city inspectors to make the process of installing an EV charger easier for you. Call MH Electric or visit our website today to get a free estimate for your EV charger installation.
