How to Install an EV Charger at Home in Plymouth, MA

With the use of electric vehicles on the rise, Massachusetts locals are turning to the top electricians in Plymouth to equip their homes with the proper EV charging capabilities. At Crowe Electric, we skillfully transform residential electrical systems to include this technology. Learn how to install an EV charger at home in this guide. 

Install a Level Two EV Charger for Optimum Power

If you’re new to electric vehicles, you might not be aware that there are three different types of charging options. Level one chargers use a 120-volt outlet, which is the standard equipment that most homes and garages already have. You won’t need to install any new equipment. However, upgrading can decrease your charging time and lower your electric bills. 

Level two EV chargers involve 240-volt outlets and often require professional installation. Plugging your vehicle into this type of outlet allows you to fully recharge for future trips in a matter of hours. They maximize convenience and save you money on your overall electric costs. 

Finally, level three stations offer the fastest charging capabilities. However, you’ll only find them at commercial sites to accommodate multiple drivers rather than serving your home only. 

Assess Any Obstacles Preventing EV Charger Installation in Your Plymouth Home

Ask an expert how to install an EV charger at home and they’ll tell you that the first step is to figure out if you need special approval. Some cities may require a special permit before making major changes to an electrical system. Check with local officials before you move forward to ensure that your installation project adheres to current building codes. 

Earning approval from the city may not be your only roadblock. If you rent your Plymouth home, for example, your landlord needs to sign off on the installation. It’s also worth contacting your local power company since they may need to adjust the electrical supply to your home.

Install a Separate Circuit Breaker for Your Vehicle’s Charger

Upgrading to a level two EV charger isn’t as simple as installing a new outlet. Experts must adjust the entire infrastructure of your electrical system. This project requires the following complex steps:

• Equipping the space with high-voltage outlets
• Wiring the charger to your home’s electric meter
• Installing a new circuit breaker for the space
• Safely running a cable from the meter box to the charger

Licensed electricians need to add a separate circuit breaker specifically for your vehicle’s charger for optimum performance and safety. This equipment will produce a heavy electrical current and potentially cause your main circuit breaker to short. Professionals prevent this and other safety issues by controlling the amount of power each circuit breaker draws. 

Reconfigure Your Home’s Outlet Setup, If Necessary

Electricians know how to install an EV charger at home and make the new system convenient for you. Some Plymouth locals don’t have a 240-volt outlet available in the charging space and need to install one. Others may have the correct outlet but have to move it to a more accessible spot for charging. 

Experts can safely and accurately reconfigure your electrical system layout so it suits you. They can relocate outlets without violating local safety codes. 

Check the Manufacturer’s Requirements During Charger Installation

If you’re wondering how to install an EV charger at home, it’s always a good idea to look at the system you purchase and read the manufacturer’s recommendations. This often determines where you should install the equipment as well as provides tips for maintaining it and keeping the warranty valid. 

Say your home has a garage, but you primarily use it for excess storage rather than shielding your car from Plymouth’s unpredictable weather. Many EV charger manufacturers produce waterproof equipment for outdoor installation. However, many recommend installing these systems indoors if possible. 

Never attempt a DIY installation, especially if you want to keep the charger’s warranty valid. Manufacturers won’t cover any damage to your system if a professional doesn’t install or repair it. After purchasing the equipment, reach out to a trusted electrician who specializes in EV charger installation.