How to install an electric car charger in your home?
Electric cars are here to stay, and it's almost like we're living in an episode of the famous series Black Mirror when we thought we were far from it. Isn't it crazy that the first flying cars have already started to appear? It makes me think of the famous cartoon, The Jetsons, and how we saw that futuristic city so far removed from our daily lives.
Time flies, they say, but it's been quite an evolution for humanity, this change, and sustainable mobility is a grand move we're getting used to. But… it arrived sooner than we expected, don't you think? So, if you're thinking of making that champion's leap into electric mobility, let me share some tips with you.
1. Choose the Right Location for Your Charger
It's important to note that while some vehicles come with their own built-in chargers, if that's not the case for you, it's essential to take a moment to consider what type of charging unit best suits your needs. If you live in an apartment or a single-family home, you have the option to install a charger at your residence. You can also choose a communal garage or use your own driveway as a charging location.
Pay attention! It's also important to consider that recharging your car at public terminals may not always be the best option, both due to availability and the malfunction of these chargers, often due to vandalism. Additionally, similar to mobile phones, in this case, you can choose between a fast charger or a standard one, which can take around 12, 16, or 2 hours. The choice will depend on your preferences and specific requirements.
2. Consider the Electrical Power
One of the key aspects of installing a charger is the electrical power. Initially, knowing what your car needs, you might want to speed up the charging of your standard vehicle, but don't make this fatal mistake! Before doing so, it's necessary to consult with a specialist to ensure you're getting the right equipment.
On the other hand, you must ensure that your home has the necessary power for the new charging point, as this will not only be reflected in your electricity bill but could also damage your car or, worse, cause issues. If you don't have enough power, you might need to increase it or install a charger that allows for dynamic load management. This is not a minor detail! When you're about to charge your vehicle, try to pay attention to whether other networks are connected so that you don't overload the circuit and avoid any headaches!
3. Choose the Appropriate Power for Your Charger
Wallboxes, or electric vehicle charging points, are available in various power levels ranging from 3.7 kW to 22 kW. These systems work with alternating current (AC) and connect in single-phase or three-phase configurations depending on their power. Therefore, it's important to select the right power level that fits your needs and your home's electrical capacity, as well as your vehicle. Some of the most sought-after brands on the market include Circutor, EvBox, Wallbox, Morec, and EVgo.