Green is the new black, and with electric cars becoming increasingly popular, more people are installing charging stations for their electric vehicles at home. However, as with most new technology, the process of installing an electric charging station may come with various challenges that you must overcome along the way. In this blog, we will discuss the obstacles that electric car owners encounter while installing an electric charging station at home, how to overcome them, and why it's worth the investment.

Electrical Capacity

The first, and most common, obstacle that most people encounter while installing a charging station is adequate electrical capacity. The majority of homes may not have the necessary electrical infrastructure to accommodate an electric vehicle charging station, so it’s essential that you check your home's electrical system before making a purchase.

• Ensure that the electrical panel in your house has enough capacity to house the EV charging unit and the necessary circuit breakers. In general, charging stations require a 240-volt circuit.
• If you are unable to upgrade your current electrical panel, it’s best to invest in a portable charging station that is compatible with your existing electrical setup.

Installation Cost

Installing an electric charging station can also be costly, and homeowners are responsible for both equipment and installation costs. However, investing in an electric car charging station can save you money in the long term by reducing your monthly expenses and increasing the value of your home.

• Research on the cost of charging units, and see which one works best with your vehicle.
• Consider hiring a qualified electrician to do the installation. While it may be more expensive at first, in the long-term, you're likely to save money and avoid unforeseen problems and hazards that come with unsafe DIY electrical work.

Finding the Right Spot for Installation

Another challenge to overcome is finding the perfect location for installation and monitoring to make sure it's in a safe, secure, and convenient place. Here are some points to consider when selecting the right spot for installation:

• Ensure that you have enough space to accommodate the charging station, preferably in a dedicated parking space,
• Check for an appropriate distance from the electric vehicle charging station to the electric panel, weather head, or meter that indicates a cable won’t have to drag on the ground,
• Choose the right kind of cabling type that allows flexibility for installation, and
• While putting the charger outside, ensure you buy an outdoor unit or a cover to protect your investment from the elements.

Obtaining Permits and Meeting Residential Codes

Obtaining permits and ensuring that the installation meets all residential codes is another common obstacle you may encounter when installing a charging station at home.

• Before making any installation, check with your local government to understand the specific building codes for electric charging stations.
• Get the required permits and approvals before proceeding with the installation. It could be for a variety of reasons; the permit approval process varies between states, so be sure to be aware of the requirements in your location.

Why is Investing in an Electric Car Charging Station Worth It?

Installing an electric car charging station at home may come with various challenges; it's a worthy investment with many benefits in the long-term.

• You get a fast, convenient, and more affordable way to charge your electric car at home, which means you won’t have to rely on charging stations during road trips.
• You will save on fuel expenses as electricity costs for every kilo-watt of charging is on average cheaper than gasoline.
• An electric car charging station can add value to your home, as an increasing number of home buyers prioritize eco-friendly features in homes in the current market.
• Using an electric car instead of a gasoline car reduces air pollution resulting from vehicle emissions. Reduced air pollution means you are also contributing to a better and cleaner environment for future generations.

Conclusion

While installing an electric car charging station at home may be challenging, they can be worthwhile in the long-term. Before investing in an electric car station, be sure to research and consider all your options and ensure your home’s electrical infrastructure can handle the demands of an EV charging station. Hiring a qualified electrician can provide the added benefit of ensuring the installation process meets all necessary regulations and ensuring that your new electric car charging infrastructure is safe and secure.

If you're interested in discovering more, click here.