Top 5 Home EV Charging Mistakes

1 - Overestimating your Charging Needs

A common mistake many EV owners make is assuming they need the quickest, most powerful charger available, such as a 40A or 48A charger. However, the reality is most drivers with short commutes only need 24A (on a 30A circuit) to fully recharge their car overnight and meet their daily driving needs. Installing a more powerful charger than needed can lead to increased costs, especially if your driving habits don't require such fast charging.

2 - Not Having Enough Power When You Need It

On the flip side, some EV owners regret not installing a higher power charger when they have the chance. In the event your daily driving needs increase i.e. commute becomes longer, or you unexpectedly need to charge up quickly, the extra amperage of a 40A/48A charger can make a big difference. For many, the peace of mind that comes with knowing you can fully recharge your EV in just a few hours is worth the extra investment.

For home owners looking for a more balanced approach, installing an EVEMS (EV Energy Management System) can offer the best solution, enabling higher output charging when needed while minimizing costs and panel upgrades.

3 - Overestimating What your Home Can Handle

First and foremost before buying a charger, asses what your home can handle. Certain homes will require upgrades to be able to support a Level 2 charger. Many older homes do not have enough capacity to handle an additional 240V circuit without overloading the panel. Consult an electrician before buying the charger to evaluate your panel's capacity and overall wiring condition. Depending on the situation, you may need a panel upgrade, dedicated circuit, or even some rewiring work.

4 - Not Hiring a Licensed EV Installation Professional

For EV charger installations, we strongly recommend hiring an electrical professional as they can provide the necessary permits and arrange inspections which may be required in your area for legal and insurance purposes. If you are planning to install the EV charger yourself, remember to:

• Check local electrical codes and permit requirements

• Know your wiring requirements including sizing, cable types, etc.

• Ensure your panel can handle the additional load without exceeding capacity

Checking these helps avoid improper installations, and avoid serious risks including injury, vehicle damage, and result in fines if not up to code.

5 - Placing the Charger in the Wrong Location

Where you install your charger matters, and poor placement can lead to issues in the future. Consider:

• Convenience: A charger located near the parking spot reduces the length of the charging cable needed, making it easier to plug in and unplug the vehicle. Planning the location with your daily routine and convenience in mind will help you avoid unnecessary hassle.

• Weather Exposure: While many chargers are weather-resistant, keeping them under shelter can extend their life.

• Accessibility: Place the charger where it will not be blocked by storage items, trash bins, or snow in the winter.

• Efficiency: Placing the charger closer to the electrical panel can reduce wiring costs and improve charging efficiency.

6 - Failing to Plan for Future Needs

Oftentimes homeowners only think about their immediate needs, but your situation can always change. Keep in mind when installing your EV charger whether you plan to buy a second EV. Do you plan to upgrade to a vehicle with a bigger battery? Will you install solar panels or join a time-of-use electricity plan? Installing a higher-capacity or "future-ready" charger now, or at least preparing your panel for more EVs with an additional junction box can save you money and headaches down the road.