We're In Your Neighborhood!
Same Day Service
Since 1992
Call The Gentleman Pros Now!
(780) 628-1734
We're In Your Neighborhood!
Same Day Service
Since 1992
Call The Gentleman Pros Now!
(780) 628-1734
You’re tired of using the Level 1 extension cord charger when charging at home and are ready to upgrade to a Level 2 EV charging station.
Did you know the City of Edmonton requires a permit to install an EV charging station? The City also recommends you use a licensed journeyman electrician who can thoroughly analyze your current electrical service needs to see if your service can cover the electrical requirements of an EV charging station.
If your service cannot accommodate the electricity required by the charging station, you can:
Our electricians can help decide which option is best for you.
Our knowledgeable electricians know the code requirements for EV charging stations and energy load management systems and are skilled at installing them safely.
Let us know when you are ready to install your EV charging station or energy load management system. It would be our pleasure to help.
You can reach The Gentlemen Pros by phone at (780) 628-1734 and online by clicking on the Chat With Us icon at the bottom of the page, or by filling out our online contact form.
We answer more questions in Part 2 and discuss the differences between Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 charging here.
When you start delving into electric vehicles, you will notice there are different types of electric vehicles. Each type has its own set of pros and cons.
The term electric vehicle is a catchall term that refers to any vehicle that uses electricity as its primary source of fuel and can be plugged in to be charged.
Battery electric vehicles are 100 percent fueled by electricity and have no gasoline or diesel engine. The electricity is stored in a rechargeable battery pack that is charged by plugging into a Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3 charger
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles have both rechargeable batteries and an internal combustion engine. They have a larger battery pack than a standard hybrid vehicle.
Like standard hybrids, their batteries can be charged through regenerative braking. Unlike standard hybrids, they can also plug into the grid to recharge. They can use Level 1 and Level 2 charging and some models, but not all, can use Level 3 charging.
PHEVs run on electricity until it is depleted and then it switches to the gasoline or diesel engine for power.
Hybrid vehicles are operated by their internal combustion engine which uses gasoline or diesel as fuel. They also have a rechargeable battery pack. The extra power from the batteries usually powers auxiliary functions like the car’s audio or climate control. In some cases, the extra power can allow the vehicle to have a smaller engine.
HEVs cannot be plugged in. Their battery pack is charged through regenerative braking and the engine. Regenerative braking is different from the standard friction braking. It captures the kinetic energy generated from the braking and transfers it to the car’s batteries.
When it comes to buying your home EV charging station there are many manufacturers and lots of models and features for you to choose from. The features you pick will depend on:
Regardless of the charger you choose, always choose one that is safety-certified.
Home EV charger features include:
Many chargers can be installed both inside or outside but not all of them. If you are installing your home charging station outside, it will be exposed to the elements. You need to make sure you get one that can withstand the heat, cold, rain, snow, and whatever else Mother Nature throws its way.
Most charging stations come with one charging port. However, there are models that have dual ports allowing you to charge two vehicles at the same time (if there is sufficient electrical capacity).
Charging cords connect your vehicle to the charging station and come in a variety of lengths.
A shorter cord is easier to store but a long cord gives you flexibility if you need to park further away from the charging station.
If your charger is located outside, make sure your cord will stay flexible in cold weather.
Always properly store your cord when it is not in use.
Depending on your charger, it will either be hardwired directly into your home’s electrical system or will be plugged into a special outlet. Some models give you both options.
If your charger is a plug-in model, you will need a 240 V outlet, also called a dryer outlet or a NEMA outlet. Many chargers use either a NEMA 6-50 or NEMA 14-50 outlet but please check your owner’s manual to find out the specific NEMA outlet your charger requires.
You may also want to consider buying a locking mechanism for your plug-in charger so it isn’t easily stolen.
The amperage of your charger correlates with how fast it will charge. The higher the amperage, the faster your charger will charge your vehicle.
Level 2 chargers come in different amperages. Consult with your electrician to make sure you get the amperage that works best with your electrical system.
Some charger models connect to the internet allowing you to use an app on your smartphone to manage the charging of the vehicle. These apps can tell you when your vehicle is fully charged, allow you to schedule your charge, track your usage, and a range of other functions.
