4 Things Reno & Sparks Homeowners Should Know Before Installing an EV Charger
- Jan 3, 2022
- 3 min read
Updated: 20 hours ago
ELECTRIC VEHICLE: 4 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW. For all of the people buying electric cars the first step is to install an electric vehicle charger. If you’re looking into installing an electric car charger in your home, it is super convenient and way simpler than most people think. Our expert electricians have put together 4 things you need to know about installing an EV charger in your home.
HOW AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGER WORKS
Before you install this advanced technology in your home, it is important to understand how it works. In reality, a home charging station doesn’t actually charge your car. How it works is that it provides your home’s alternating current to your car’s on-board charger, then it converts it to direct current and stores it in the battery.
There are different charging stations available that support different speeds of charging. It’s important to see the options to make sure you have the power needed at home.
DIFFERENT TYPES OF LEVEL CHARGERS
As of now, there are three different level chargers in the market. Level 1 and Level 2 chargers are the best for residential installations. On the other hand, level 3 chargers are very high-voltage and very fast-charging stations. They can be very expensive and are not really well-suited to be used at home. Additionally, the use of a level 3 charger can damage the electric vehicle’s battery.
The best option to install at home is a level 1 charger. It plugs into a traditional 120-volt outlet, making it really easy to just plug in your car and charge it at home. However, if the voltage level is low your charging can take much longer, up to 20 hours for a full charge. This charger is best for just adding a charge to your battery and not necessarily a full charge.
On the other hand, a level 2 charger requires a 240-volt outlet and it provides up to 32 amps. This means that it can provide a full charge 5 times faster than a level 1 charger.
When you choose a charger you need to consider the type of car you have, how often you drive it, and how quickly you want your battery charged.
EV Charger Installation Cost in Reno & Sparks
The cost to install an EV charger in Reno typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,500 depending on the home’s electrical system, distance to the panel, and installation complexity.
Simple installations may be completed in a single day, while more complex setups—such as panel upgrades or long wiring runs—can increase both cost and timeline.
DIY VS PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION
Another important thing to think about is how to go about the installation. Some people choose to DIY the installation and, depending on what type of charging station they choose, it is absolutely possible.
On the other hand, some charging stations really need professional installation. If you hire an expert electrician they will handle everything. From having all the necessary equipment to guaranteeing your new electric vehicle charger works properly after installation.
Installation of the electric vehicle charger
A 240-volt circuit breaker
Full testing of the charger
Special training on how to use it once installed
Electrical Requirements for EV Chargers
Most Level 2 EV chargers require a 240V dedicated circuit, typically rated at 40–50 amps. This allows for faster charging and is the standard for residential installations.
Many older Reno homes may not have enough electrical capacity, which can require a panel upgrade before installation.
⚡ Having electrical issues in your home?
Super Electric provides fast, reliable electrical troubleshooting in Reno–Sparks.
✔️ Same-day service available✔️ 700+ 5-star reviews✔️ Licensed & experienced electricians
📞 Call 775-230-7006 today to get it fixed fast
