Solar by

Energy and Financial Consulting

solar, ev chargers, and battery installations and

funding in over 30 states, including CA, NY, and NJ

U.S. VETERAN-OWNED BUSINESS
Providers of commercial, non-profit, government, and residential energy solutions

Safely Charging an Electric Vehicle at Home

 

 

Charging an EV at home is a straightforward process, but it’s essential to consider safety measures carefully. By selecting the right equipment, ensuring correct installation, understanding the charging process, and following safety guidelines, EV owners can enjoy the convenience of home charging while contributing to a cleaner future.

At the end of 2021, there were approximately two million EVs on American roads, including plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs). This number continues to grow as EVs become an increasingly popular choice for consumers. However, some users are unaware of the fire and electric shock hazards associated with charging EVs at home. Recent safety recalls from Ford, Hyundai, and BMW due to faulty lithium-ion batteries emphasize the importance of understanding safe charging practices.

That’s why it is crucial to understand the best methods for safely charging your EV to extend the life of your vehicle’s battery and help protect your home and car.

At Solar by EnFin, our experts are here to explain the ins and outs of charging your EV. Keep reading to learn more about what you need to install an EV charger, how to charge an EV, and best practices for safe charging.

 

WHAT DO YOU NEED AT HOME TO CHARGE AN EV?

Charging an EV at home is not only convenient but can also reduce your carbon footprint if you use solar panels to charge your electric car. Smart charging could reduce carbon emissions by 8-14%.

The exact equipment you need depends on the make of your car, but there are a few items every EV owner needs:

  • EV charging station: Think of it as the heart of your home charging setup, connecting your EV to the electrical grid.

  • Electrical panel upgrade: Depending on the capacity of your home’s electrical system, you might need an upgrade to accommodate the power requirements of your EV.

  • Dedicated circuit: To charge your EV safely and efficiently, you need a dedicated circuit for your EV charger. This provides a direct power supply, reducing the risk of overloading other circuits in your home.
  • Outdoor-rated charging station: If you park your car outside or want to charge your EV in your driveway, you’ll need an outdoor-rated charging station designed to withstand the elements.
  • Licensed electrician: It’s wise to hire a licensed electrician for installation to ensure safety and proper functioning of the charging station.

 

 

HOW DO YOU CHARGE AN EV AT HOME?

Once you have all the necessary equipment installed, follow these guidelines for smooth charging:

  • Choose the right electric car charging equipment: Different EVs require different equipment to charge, usually with varying voltage ranges. There are three levels of charging: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3.

  • Prepare your home: Assess your home’s electrical panel capacity and ensure you have a dedicated circuit available for the EV charger.

  • Install your charging station: A licensed electrician can determine the best location for installation and handle the installation process professionally.

  • Connect your EV: Park your EV within reach of the charging station, follow manufacturer’s instructions to connect the charging cable securely, and monitor the charging process.

  • Monitor and manage charging: Use the charging station’s display to monitor the process and ensure ongoing charging. Adhere to safety requirements and manufacturer’s guidelines.

 

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST EV CHARGING HAZARDS?

While EV charging is generally safe, there are some common hazards to be aware of:

  • Overloading electrical circuits: Ensure your home’s electrical system can handle the additional load.

  • Faulty charging equipment: Use charging equipment from reputable manufacturers and inspect it regularly for damage.

  • Insufficient electrical infrastructure: Make sure your home’s electrical system can accommodate the additional load.

  • Inadequate ventilation: Provide adequate ventilation in the charging area, especially for high-power chargers.

  • Inclement weather: Protect charging equipment from extreme weather conditions.

  • User error: Follow manufacturer’s instructions and avoid incompatible charging cables or attempting repairs yourself.

 

By following these guidelines and exercising caution, you can safely charge your EV at home, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable future.