EV Charger Installations

The electric vehicle revolution is gaining momentum, and more drivers are making the switch to an EV every day. However, to power these vehicles, a proper charging station must be installed. This process involves far more than plugging something into the wall – several things need to be considered when installing an EV charger, ranging from aesthetics and convenience to safety protocols and cost-effectiveness. In this article, we'll explore the technicalities of EV charger installations in Fort Collins, CO so you know what to expect before starting the process.

First Things First: Decide on Your Charger Type

Before you begin your installation process, you'll need to decide which type of charger best suits your needs. There are three main types of chargers available on the market:
  • Level 1 chargers are usually installed in residential homes, as they plug directly into a standard 110-volt outlet. These take the longest to charge an EV battery but are significantly more affordable than their commercial counterparts.
  • Level 2 charging stations require a 240-volt outlet and come with either a hardwired connection or a plug-in cord set. Level 2 chargers charge faster than Level 1 models and can be used for both home and commercial applications.
DC Fast Chargers (aka DCFCs) are the fastest type of charger currently available on the market, however, they also come with the highest cost tag. DCFCs can charge an EV battery to 80 percent in as little as 30 minutes, making them ideal for commercial applications.

Now that you've chosen your charger type, it's time to move on to the installation process.

The Installation Process: An Overview

EV charger installations vary depending on the type of charger and the location where it is being installed. Generally speaking, however, all installations follow a similar process outlined below:
  • Conduct necessary site assessments – The first step in the installation process is to conduct necessary site assessments. This includes assessing the existing electrical infrastructure (e.g., power supply and wiring) and determining whether any modifications or upgrades need to be made for the charging station to function properly.
  • Obtain permits and approvals – Depending on the location of the charger, you may be required to obtain special permits or approvals from your local government before proceeding with the installation. This step is particularly important for commercial installations as additional safety regulations must be followed.
  • Install the charger – The actual installation of the charger can take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days depending on its complexity. During this process, all necessary wiring will be connected and tested for proper operation. Once complete, you'll have a fully functional EV charging station ready to use!
  • There you have it – now that you know what's involved in an EV charger installation, you can make an informed decision about whether or not this is something you want to pursue. If you do decide to move forward, make sure to consult a certified electrician who can help guide you through the process and ensure that everything is done safely and properly.

Tips To Hire An Electrician

When it comes to finding an electrician for your EV charger installation, here are a few tips that can help you make the right decision:
  • Look for experience – Make sure the electrician you hire has experience working with EV chargers. This will ensure that they know what to expect during the installation process and can answer any questions or concerns you may have along the way.
  • Get multiple bids – Try getting multiple bids from different electricians before making your final decision. This will give you a good idea of what the average cost should be so you can avoid being overcharged.
  • Ask for references – Quality is important when it comes to electrical work, so don't hesitate to ask potential contractors for customer references. This will give you a good idea of their track record and help ensure that your installation is done correctly the first time around.
Installing an EV charger can be a complicated process, but with the right electrician, it doesn't have to be! With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect electrician for your project.

At Eggers Electric, we specialize in the installation of EV charging stations and electrical remodeling for Fort Collins, CO homes and businesses. Whether you're looking to install a Level 1, Level 2, or DC Fast charger, our team of certified electricians is here to help – contact us today to get started!