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While gas-guzzling vehicles still dominate the automobile market, electric cars are growing in popularity, surpassing one million in sales in the United States in 2018. When considering an electric vehicle, you need to understand the requirements your home will need to support your new car. While a standard three-prong 120-volt outlet can support most electric vehicles, there’s a strong chance your home’s wiring will need to be upgraded by a licensed electrician to handle the additional load.  

Upgrading Your Electrical System to Support an Electric Car

What Kind of Upgrade Is Needed? 

electricianEvery home’s electrical wiring is different, so consult an electrician before charging an electric car. While standard 120-volt outlets can support a basic, level one charge, an electrician should install a dedicated circuit to protect your home and electrical devices from potential overloads. A level one charge will take approximately 8 to 10 hours to complete, so it might be more convenient to install a level two charger instead. This larger 240-volt AC plug and receptacle will complete a full charge in 3 to 6 hours. Charging in as little as 20 minutes is also possible, but it requires having a complete DC fast charging station on your property.

Which Is Better?

Every electric car has different charging capabilities. Before investing in an upgrade, you should research the car you plan to purchase. Vehicle manufacturers should provide you with charging capacity information. An electrician can help you determine which charging station is best for your car and give an estimate for the cost of installation. 

 

If you need an inspection in Colorado, Arizona, or Utah, the licensed electricians at McAtlin Electrical Corporation in Grand Junction, CO, specialize in electrical inspections, repairs, and installations for a variety of uses. One of their professionals can assess your home’s electrical wiring and install the best charging solution for your new vehicle. Call (970) 257-7414 or visit them online to schedule an appointment today.

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