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Over the last decade, electric cars have become increasingly popular. If you’re joining this eco-friendly trend, you’ll need to prepare your home’s electrical system. Consider the following information about charging these cars so an electrician can make the necessary upgrades.

What Power Options Are Available?

There are two main types of chargers for your residential electric vehicle: level 1 and level 2. A level 1 charger can be plugged into a 120-volt outlet via a 3-prong plug. However, an electrician will need to install a dedicated branch circuit to keep the electrical system safe. Typically, it takes 8-12 hours for a full charge, and each hour will add 2-5 miles of driving range.

electricianA level 2 charger runs through a 240-volt circuit. For this option, electricians will need to install special home charging equipment as well as a dedicated circuit to prevent overloading your electric panel. A level 2 charger will allow for 10 to 60 miles of driving range per hour of charging time.

What Factors Should Be Considered?

When deciding which charger is best for you, consider convenience, driving habits, and your vehicle’s charging capacity. If you take frequent short drives and live in an area with public charging amenities, level 1 is suitable. However, if you live in a place that isn’t electric vehicle-friendly, you might want as much power as you can get at home with a level 2 charger.

Further, each vehicle has a charging capacity indicating how quickly it can absorb charge. Review this before investing in a stronger charger that surpasses your maximum charging capacity.

What Are Plug-In & Hardwire Chargers?

Once you decide on the power of your charger, you can decide on the type. You can choose between a plug-in charger, which goes into an outlet, or a hardwired charge, which goes directly into your home’s electrical panel.

Plug-in chargers are convenient, and you can take them with you when you move. Plus, if there’s an issue with it, you can simply unplug it and call your electrician. However, to use it, you might need to add another outlet to your home.

With a hardwired charger, it’ll be permanently fixed to your electrical panel. Alternatively, if you already have a dryer outlet in the garage, with enough amperage, your electrician might be able to plug it in there. However, you won't be able to move your hardwired charger without an electrician’s help.

 

Whether you’re preparing your home for an electric car or looking for clean energy solutions, choose ABC Electric Company, Inc. in Lincoln, NE. They have a reputation for providing reliable and effective electrical services for residential, commercial, and industrial customers. Their services include indoor and outdoor lighting, residential wiring, infrared scanning, and electric vehicle charging stations, among others. They offer 24/7 emergency services, and no matter the project, they’re happy to answer your questions and give advice. Schedule an appointment by calling (402) 435-3514. Explore their website to learn more about their exceptional service.

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