What types of EV chargers can I install at home?
For residential use, a Level 2 charger is the most common and efficient option. It can be installed in two ways:
Hardwire Charger Installation: A hardwired charger is directly connected to your home's electrical wiring or a junction box, requiring professional installation by an electrician. Constellation Home prefers hardwired EV charger installations for their enhanced safety, reliability, and higher charging speeds, ensuring a seamless integration into your home’s electrical system. This method offers a durable, weather-resistant solution and complies with local building codes.
Plug Charger Installation: This type uses a NEMA (240 Volt) plug connected to a cable (10-25 feet long) that plugs into a corresponding outlet. If your home already has a compatible NEMA outlet, you can directly plug in your charger. Otherwise, a qualified electrician can install the necessary outlet. Adapters are also available for different NEMA socket types. Constellation recommends a hardwired installation for a safer, more reliable, and efficient charging experience, ensuring your home’s infrastructure is adequately prepared for the demands of electric vehicle charging.
Level 1 Chargers: Level 1 charging, utilizing a standard 120V household outlet, offers an accessible method of EV charging. However, its slower charging rate—typically delivering about 4-5 miles of range per hour—may not be adequate for drivers who frequently cover more than minimal distances. For those with regular or extensive driving needs, this charging option may prove less practical.
Level 3 “DC Fast Chargers”: While extremely efficient at charging EVs quickly, Level 3 chargers are not suitable for home installation. These chargers require a direct current (DC) supply, whereas residential settings typically only support alternating current (AC). Additionally, the high power requirement and infrastructure changes necessary for DC fast charging are impractical and economically unfeasible for typical home use.
What should I know about permits and approvals?
Permit requirements vary by location but typically:
• Permits related to the electrical work will be procured by the Constellation Home team or its authorized service providers
• Any other approvals, including but not limited to approvals from homeowner’s associations or historic societies will be the homeowner’s responsibility
What can I expect on the day of installation?
Preparation: Prior to arrival, your technician will have reviewed photos of your electrical panel and the planned charger. High-quality photos streamline the preparation process for your technician, ensuring a smooth and efficient installation experience. Expect to exchange photos and information with the technician, possibly including better photos or Google Maps references.
Wire Assessment: The amount of wire needed will be estimated based on the distance between the electrical panel and the charger location. We may need to revise your installation cost if: (1) the information you provide is incomplete or untrue; or (2) the cost to install the EV charger in your home exceeds our Ordinary Costs. “Ordinary Costs” for installing an EV charger includes labor and material to install (in accordance with local code requirements) one 240V dedicated circuit and mount for the Level 2 charger you purchased. Please review your Installation Contract for full details.
Ordinary Costs do not include the following: wiring exceeding 100 feet in length; utility service or panel upgrades; load management devices; any trenching or landscaping work; repair of drywall, stucco, plaster, concrete or any repairs to walls, ceilings or floors due to installation of wiring. A new work order and pricing may be needed if additional work is required to install the EV charger.
Installation: On the day of installation, the technician will do a walkthrough with you regarding installation details, including wire path, panel modifications, and whether drywall cutting is needed. The technician will proceed with the installation. Once the installation is successfully finished and the charger is fully operational, the remaining balance for the services will be due.
Final Steps: Once installed, you should learn how to operate the breaker, test the charger with your vehicle, and understand the process for the subsequent inspection. The homeowner typically handles the setup of accounts or associated applications for the charger and having all accounts – specifically username and passwords - created in advance can significantly streamline any desired testing once installation is complete.
Are there any additional considerations?
Drywall and Furniture: The installation process may require cutting holes in drywall to lay wire. Please be aware drywall repair is not covered under installation costs. Furniture moving is not included in the service.
Inspection: The final inspection date will be communicated post-installation from Constellation Home. It's advisable to plan for a date at least two weeks out to accommodate scheduling with local authorities who perform final inspections.
Conclusion
Installing a Level 2 home charger is a step towards embracing the future of transportation. By understanding the types of chargers, the installation process, and what to expect on the day of installation, you're well-prepared for a smooth transition to electric vehicle ownership. If you have any more questions or need further clarification, don't hesitate to contact us.