How To Prepare Your Garage for Charging An Electric Vehicle

As electric vehicles (EVs) gain popularity, having a reliable home charging setup is increasingly important. At least until April 2023, EVs shipped with complimentary Level 1 chargers that can be plugged into typical 120-volt household outlets. However, most EV owners prefer Level 2 chargers for power and convenience reasons. These chargers can either be plugged into a 240-volt NEMA 14-50 outlets or hardwired into the home's electrical panel.

It might come as a surprise, but not all houses in the US have NEMA 14-50 outlets installed. If your house was built before 1996, it’s likely equipped with ground-less NEMA 10-30 outlets, which were popular post-World War II due to metal shortages. Despite not complying with current grounding standards, these outlets remain legally usable, including for charging electric vehicles.

Whether you're installing a compatible outlet or a home charging station, your best location option is your car garage. It is convenient distance-wise and protects your electric car and charging equipment from environmental factors. So, how can you ensure your garage is EV charger-ready?

Types of EV Chargers

Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE), more commonly known as EV chargers, comes in three levels, which dictate whether an installation is necessary:

Level 1 EV Chargers

Level 1 chargers are the slowest type and use a regular 120-volt outlet. They typically provide 2-5 miles of range per hour of charging, making them suitable for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) or overnight charging of battery electric vehicles (BEVs). These chargers plug directly into a standard wall outlet.

Level 2 EV Chargers

Level 2 chargers require a 240-volt outlet, similar to what is used for a dryer or oven. They charge much faster than Level 1 chargers, offering 10-20 miles of range per hour. These chargers are ideal for BEVs and for households with multiple EVs. Level 2 chargers come in plug-in and hardwired versions

Level 3 (DC Fast) EV Chargers

Level 3 chargers, also known as DC Fast Chargers, provide the fastest charging speeds. They can charge an EV to 80% in about 30-45 minutes. However, these chargers require significant electrical infrastructure and are not typically used in residential settings.

Benefits of Installing EV Charger in Garage

1. Convenience of Charging at Home: Installing an EV charger in your garage allows for the utmost convenience. Instead of driving to a public charging station and waiting for your vehicle to charge, you can simply plug in your electric vehicle (EV) at home. This makes it easy to charge your car overnight while you sleep, ensuring that it’s fully charged and ready to go each morning.

2. Cost Savings Compared to Public Charging Stations: Home charging is typically more cost-effective than using public charging stations. While public stations often charge higher rates per kilowatt-hour (kWh), charging your EV at home allows you to take advantage of lower residential electricity rates. Additionally, many utility companies offer special EV charging plans with discounted rates during off-peak hours, further reducing your overall charging costs.

3. Availability of Charging Anytime: With an EV charger installed in your garage, you have the flexibility to charge your vehicle anytime you need. There’s no need to worry about the availability of public charging stations or waiting for a spot to become free. This constant availability ensures that you can keep your vehicle charged and ready for use, whether you need to make a quick trip or a long journey.

4. Increased Resale Value of the Property: Installing an EV charger can enhance the resale value of your property. As more people switch to electric cars, homes equipped with EV charging stations are becoming increasingly desirable. Potential buyers may view a home with an existing EV charger as a significant perk, making your property more attractive and potentially increasing its market value.

Preparing Your Garage

Now that you know why you should install an EV charging station at home, it's time to prepare your garage for installation. Here are the three most important components you need to prepare:

Wiring

For optimal performance and safety, you’ll need a dedicated 240-volt circuit for your EV charger. Professional installation costs typically range between $750 and $1750, plus permit fees, according to Qmerit. If your current electrical system can’t support the additional load, you may need a new service line, potentially increasing costs to the higher end of the range. Homes with 150-amp service or higher can generally add a 30- or 40-amp circuit, depending on existing large power draws like electric stoves or water heaters. A 40-amp circuit requires 8-gauge wire, costing over $3 per foot. Higher amperage for faster charging needs thicker, more expensive wire. The length of the run from the electrical panel to the charger location affects the total cost due to the price of wire and installation labor.

Outlet

A NEMA 14-50 outlet is recommended for several reasons. Many EVs include portable chargers compatible with both 120-volt and 240-volt outlets, eliminating the need for additional equipment. The outlet can power other high-draw equipment, such as welders. Portable chargers allow you to take the charger with you on the go. If you're installing where you keep your car parked, ensure that the charging cable can reach the outlet from your vehicle's charge port.

Equipment

Choosing the right charging equipment can enhance your charging experience. Devices like the Wi-Fi-connected Lectron V-Box Pro offer apps to track energy usage and charging history. Some chargers allow you to schedule charging sessions during off-peak hours for reduced rates.

Installation Considerations

Install the EV charger on the same side as your vehicle’s charge port and as close as possible. Ideally, place the charger within 15 to 20 feet of the port. The charger should be within 3 to 4 feet of the 240V outlet. Mount the charger at least 18 inches off the garage floor, ideally between 42 and 48 inches high. Ensure the charger is within range of your home’s Wi-Fi network or cellular communication. If you have two EVs, mount the charger on a wall between them for equal access or install a dual charger instead.

Before starting the installation make sure to read our Comprehensive Guide on How to Install EV Charger at Home.

Safety Considerations

Ensuring the safe installation and use of an EV charger in your garage involves several important considerations:

1. Proper Handling of Charging Cables: Always inspect charging cables for damage and avoid using them if worn or frayed. Keep cables off the ground to prevent tripping hazards and avoid running them under doors or windows. When plugging in or unplugging, hold the plug to prevent damage. Store cables neatly to avoid tangles and damage.

2. Fire Safety Precautions: Ensure the charging area is well-ventilated to prevent overheating and keep flammable materials away. Install smoke detectors in the garage and regularly check the charger and electrical connections for signs of overheating or damage. Keep a fire extinguisher rated for electrical fires accessible.

3. Electrical Safety Guidelines: Hire a qualified electrician to install your EV charger and ensure it meets local electrical codes. Use a dedicated circuit to avoid overloading your system. Regularly inspect all components for signs of wear or damage and avoid using extension cords or adapters to minimize electrical hazards.

Choosing the best location for an EV charger

When selecting the best location for an EV charger, most homeowners opt for installation in their own garage due to the protection it offers. Installing the charger indoors prevents vandalism and eliminates the need to handle wet or muddy cables during bad weather. Additionally, parking indoors can improve the efficiency of the recharging process in extremely cold weather. Ensure the charger is easily accessible, considering the location of your vehicle's charging port. With most Level 2 charging cables being 16-20 feet long, consider an extra-long cable for added flexibility, especially if you have multiple EVs or need more space for other activities. Alternatively, you can use an EV-certified Tesla extension cord that can add 20 feet to your charging cable. For households with two vehicles, a centralized location in your two-car garage, such as a wall between garage doors, is most practical.

Choosing the right EV home charger

When choosing an EV home charger, it's important to read customer reviews and avoid deals that seem too good to be true. Ensure any Level 2 charger you buy is safety certified by an accredited testing lab and Energy Star compliant. Some automakers and car dealerships offer high-quality home charging hardware they've personally tested.

Consider a smart EV charger

A smart EV charger such as the Lectron V-Box Pro offers convenient functionality through WiFi connectivity, allowing you to manage your charging sessions via a mobile app. Benefits include scheduling charging for off-peak hours, monitoring the status of charging sessions, accessing a detailed history of previous sessions, and receiving notifications when charging is complete. Some smart chargers can also be controlled remotely and are compatible with Amazon’s Alexa. To maximize these features, ensure a strong WiFi signal in your garage. Before making your final decision, check out our Best Home EV Charging Stations for 2024 List.

Design and upgrade ideas for garages with EV chargers

To create a functional and aesthetically pleasing garage with an EV charger, consider a few design and upgrade ideas:

• Convenient Charger Mounting: Ensure the charger is mounted at a convenient height and location for easy access.

• Cable Management: Incorporate cable management solutions to keep cords organized and off the ground.

• Centralized Charging Station: If you have multiple EVs, a centralized charging station can help streamline the setup.

• Lighting and Ventilation: Enhance your garage with good lighting and ventilation.

• Storage Solutions: Implement storage solutions to create a well-organized and efficient space.

FAQs

• Is a home EV charger worth it?

  Yes, a home EV charger is worth it for the convenience, cost savings, and charging flexibility it offers. It allows for overnight charging at lower electricity rates and adds value to your property, making it a worthwhile investment for EV owners.