As electric vehicles (EVs) become increasingly popular, one of the key lifestyle adjustments for new owners is figuring out the best way to charge their vehicles at home. Kristin Larson, CEO of Southwest Industrial Electric, recently shared her expertise with CNET on choosing and installing the right home EV charger.
Understanding Your Charging Needs
Kristin explains that it's essential to assess how much you'll be driving your EV and how quickly you need to recharge. For minimal daily usage, a Level 1 charger, which can plug into any standard home outlet and offers about 5 miles of range per hour, might be adequate. However, for those with longer commutes, a Level 2 charger is advisable as it delivers approximately 25 miles of range per hour, allowing for a full charge overnight.
Installation Insights from a CNET-Consulted Expert
While installation of a Level 1 charger is straightforward, Kristin advises that a Level 2 charger installation might require professional assistance, especially if you do not have an existing 240-volt outlet in your garage. The process involves a detailed assessment of your home’s electrical panel to ensure it can accommodate the charger, which most qualified electricians can handle efficiently within 3 to 4 hours at an estimated labor cost of about $400.
Costs and Effective Planning
The charger unit itself typically costs between $400 to $600, bringing the total installation cost to around $1,000. Kristin notes that upgrading your electrical panel to support the charger could significantly increase these costs. She recommends that potential EV owners get an electrician's estimate before purchasing a vehicle to understand all related expenses fully.
Featured by CNET for her deep understanding of electrical solutions in the modern home, Kristin Larson at Southwest Industrial Electric is dedicated to ensuring that transitioning to electric vehicle ownership is as smooth and informed as possible for everyone.
https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/do-you-need-an-electrician-to-install-a-home-ev-charger/