How Can I Install a Charging Station in My Garage?
Electric vehicles (EVs) are the future of transportation. They’re quiet, convenient, efficient, and great for the planet. As of 2023, there are more than 3.3 million electric cars on the road, and that number is likely to increase as government groups continue to prioritize reducing carbon emissions.
12 States throughout the US are planning on eventually banning the sale of gas cars entirely. Of course, before you invest in an EV, you’re going to need to figure out how you’re going to charge it. Relying on public charging stations doesn’t make sense in the long term.
If you want a convenient option, you need a garage charging station.
Where Can You Charging an Electric Vehicle?
EV owners have plenty of ways to charge their vehicles in public charging stations are popping up everywhere. You’ll find them at standard fuel stations, in retail store parking lots, and even at hotels and car dealerships. Some parking garages even have their own EV charging stations installed.
The trouble is charging an EV takes time, and it’s not always easy to find an open station when you need it. Plus, it’s difficult to know exactly how much you’ll pay to charge your vehicle from one location to the next. Installing a garage charging station is a far more convenient option.
Why Install a Garage Charging Station?
Having your own garage charging station at home just makes life easier as an electric vehicle owner. You won’t have to constantly visit busy and potentially expensive charging stations whenever you need to top up your car’s battery. Plus, unlike installing a charging station in your driveway, you’ll be able to protect your vehicle from the weather while it’s powering up.
A garage charging station gives you:
- Convenience: You’ll be able to charge your vehicle whenever you choose, without having to visit a public location and wait for the charging process to finish.
- Cost savings: Home charging usually saves money, as you’ll be paying more predictable rates based on the costs set by your energy provider.
- Protection:Your EV charger and vehicle will be protected from the weather in your garage. Plus, you won’t have to worry about someone stealing your equipment because it will be locked away (inside) when it’s not in use.
Installing a garage charging station could boost your property’s value, making your home more appealing to eco-conscious consumers with their own electric cars.
The Types of EV Charging Stations
The right charger is the first thing you’ll need when installing a garage charging station. There are two main options for domestic properties:
- Level 1 Charger: This charger uses a 120V outlet. It doesn’t charge as quickly as a Level 2 charger but can be cheaper to install and run.
- Level 2 Charger: A Level 2 charger runs off a 240/280 volt outlet and charges faster (around 10 to 20 miles per charging hour, compared to 2-5 miles for a Level 1 charger). Level 2 chargers can be more expensive and usually require the installation of a new outlet.
Level 3 chargers, which use 480-volt outlets for ultra-fast charging, exist. However, infrastructure issues make it almost impossible to install one at home.
How to Make the Right Choice?
The right option for your garage charging station depends on a few things:
- Your budget: A Level 1 charger will generally be a lot more affordable (around $169) compared to a Level 2 charger (around $249+). There may also be fewer installation costs to consider if your garage already has a suitable outlet.
- Available support:If you’re hoping to install your charger yourself without the help of a specialist, a Level 1 charger is the better option, particularly if you already have a 120-volt charging outlet in your garage.
- Speed:Level 2 chargers can charge your vehicle a lot faster, so if you’re looking for speedy results, then it might be worth making the upgrade.
Preparing to Install a Garage Charging Station
Installing your garage charging station involves a few steps. Typically, you won’t have to build a new garage from scratch, although if you are taking this route, it’s a good idea to ask your contractors to install the right wiring and outlets immediately.
One of the first things you’ll need to consider is permits. Most US jurisdictions require homeowners to request a permit,, particularly for a Level 2 charger, before it’s installed. If you don’t have a permit, you risk fines (and safety risks), so do your research before you begin.
Next:
Consider Your Garage Layout
Think carefully about where you place your electrical charger in your garage. If your garage is very small, it might not make sense to install a charger at all, as you won’t have a lot of room to move around when plugging in and unplugging charging cables.
If your garage is large, you’ll need to ensure the cable can easily reach from the outlet to your vehicle. If you already have a suitable outlet installed, ensure it’s positioned near your car’s charging port. You’ll generally want a distance of no more than 15 feet between your car and the outlet. The charger should also be:
- At least 18 inches from the floor (to avoid potential water damage).
- Within reach of your home’s Wi-Fi network.
- Located close to the 120V or 240V outlet.
Prepare your Garage for Installation
Once you’ve checked your garage’s layout and identified the right location for your unit, you need to make some additional preparations. For instance, you’ll need to ensure there’s a connection between your electric car charger and the app you use for your vehicle.
Make sure you have a strong and stable internet connection available. If your Wi-Fi router doesn’t reach your garage, you might need to consider a wireless signal booster.
Another point to consider is climate control. Storing your car in your garage while charging can help protect it, but the environment can affect your battery and the charger's efficiency. Ensure your garage is properly insulated to protect your vehicle, battery, and charger from any damage caused by temperature fluctuations.
Find Your Installation Expert
While it’s sometimes possible to install a Level 1 charger yourself if you already have an outlet available, it usually makes sense to work with a professional. You’ll need an experienced electrician to install a 240-volt outlet for a Level 2 charger and hardwire your system.
An experienced electrician should have the right credentials and experience working in the electric vehicle industry and must have their own insurance. They should be able to install your circuit breaker, run an electric cable to your EV charger location, and install your outlet.
When making your choice, read the reviews of local installers carefully and ask them questions about the installation process. Make sure they give you a clear quote so you know exactly what you can expect to pay for their service.
The Installation: How Much Will it Cost?
Installing a garage charging station can save you money in the long term by reducing the amount you pay for energy and eliminating the need to travel to public stations. However, there will be an initial cost. First, you’ll need to pay for the price of your charger.
A Level 2 charger can cost between $300 and $1000, and you’ll also need to pay for installation from an electrician. If you don’t already have a 240-volt outlet, labor costs could be around $1,500 or more.
A Level 1 charger will likely be a little cheaper to install, particularly if you already have a 140-volt outlet, but you may find that longer charging times cost you more in electricity bills in the long-term.
Simplify EV Charging at Home
Installing a garage charging station is a great way to make powering your electric vehicle more convenient. It can help you save money, give your vehicle (and charger) more protection than a driveway charging station, and even add value to your home.
Just ensure you prepare carefully by assessing your garage layout, applying for the right permits, purchasing the correct equipment, and choosing the best electrician for the job.
Good post . Electricity is life.
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