Electric vehicles are becoming a lot more common in places like Paris, TN. More and more drivers are making the switch from fossil fuels to battery power. The prospect of never having to visit a gas station again is alluring. Many people even consider installing an EV charging station at home.
The Basics of Level 1 Charging
Modern electric vehicles typically come standard with a Level 1 charging cable designed to plug into a standard 120-volt household outlet. Level 1 charging setups are essentially standard outlets that are accessible outdoors, often installed with weatherproof covers and basic safety protections. While they are cheaper to install than higher-level chargers, they do not charge your vehicle as quickly. With a Level 1 charger, you can typically add about 3–5 miles of driving range per hour of charging. This means a full charge can take 24 hours or longer, depending on battery size.
Even though they are available, you do not need a dedicated charging station since you could plug the cable into a standard outlet. However, charging places a continuous load on the circuit, typically drawing around 12 to 16 amps. If the outlet shares a circuit with other household items, it can overload the circuit and cause breakers to trip.
How to Avoid Tripped Breakers With Level 1 Chargers
Tripping a circuit breaker is one of the most common issues homeowners face when charging an EV. Your car’s battery places a steady, heavy electrical load on the circuit for several hours at a time. To reduce the risk of tripped breakers, the EV outlet should be on a dedicated circuit. This means no other lights or appliances share the same breaker. To keep safe, reliable power flowing, consider the following:
- Use a dedicated circuit that serves only the EV outlet
- Avoid running large appliances during charging
- Inspect the outlet regularly
- Use reduced charging speed settings
Level 1 vs. Level 2 Chargers: What Is the Difference?
Level 1 charging uses a standard 120-volt outlet, like your vacuum cleaner or blow dryer. Level 2 charging uses a 240-volt connection, similar to what powers a clothes dryer or electric range. With Level 2 charging, homeowners install a dedicated EV charging station. This upgrade delivers more power to the battery, significantly reducing charging time.
With Level 2 charging, many vehicles can gain up to 25 to 80 miles of driving range per hour, depending on the charger and battery size. Most vehicles can fully recharge overnight, even from a very low battery level. A standalone charging station offers added convenience and reliability for daily use. There are three main benefits:
Faster Charging Speeds
The most obvious benefit of a Level 2 charger is the time saved. Some vehicles take literally days to recharge on a 120-volt outlet. With a 240-volt connection, charging happens much quicker. You can also charge at home for less than you would pay at a public station.
Enhanced Safety Features
Professional EV charging installation provides a dedicated circuit. It also includes properly rated wiring, breakers, and outlet components that help maintain a stable, protected power supply.
Increased Home Value
A pre-installed EV charging station can increase appeal for potential homebuyers. Many buyers see this modern upgrade as a practical feature. This is especially true for those who already own or plan to purchase an electric vehicle.
Electrical Requirements for Level 2 Installation
Most Level 2 chargers require a dedicated 40-amp to 60-amp circuit. If your existing electrical panels cannot support that additional load, it can lead to tripped breakers or overheating. EVs begin drawing significant power as soon as you plug them in. A professional can perform a load calculation to measure your home’s current electrical demand. This helps them determine whether your panel has enough capacity. If needed, the panel can be upgraded to support the charger safely.
Our Commitment to Quality Service
At E&W Electrical Solutions, we have been serving the residents of Paris and the surrounding areas for over 45 years. In addition to installing a charger, we can help with all your other electrical needs. As a local business, we focus on building long-term customer relationships. This means you can expect quality work at reasonable prices.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced electricians.
