As EV (Electrical Vehicle) Sales Skyrocket, Homeowners Are Discovering the Need for Electrical Upgrades

In this comprehensive post, we give you essential info for EV charger installation and electrical panel upgrades. Whether you’re searching for residential electricians in Calgary or exploring residential electrical services in your area, this post will provide you with what you need to know.

TL;DR Key Considerations for EV Charger Installation and Electrical Panel Upgrades:

  • Electrical Load Capacity: Ensure your home’s system can handle the increased demand.
  • Permits and Regulations: Verify local codes and obtain necessary permits.
  • Future-Proofing: Choose a panel that supports future technological upgrades.
  • Charger Location: Plan for a convenient, safe, and accessible placement.
  • Impact on Home Value: Understand how upgrades can increase your property’s market value.
  • EV management systems offer a cost-effective solution for installing EV chargers without upgrading your electrical panel, but they have potential downsides. 

Understanding EV Charger Installation

Do you need an EV Charger for your new EV?

Why You Need an EV Charger at Home

As more people switch to electric vehicles, the demand for convenient and efficient charging solutions at home has skyrocketed.

An EV charger installation ensures you have a reliable, fast, and safe way to charge your electric vehicle without depending solely on public charging stations.

Types of EV Chargers

  1. Level 1 Chargers: These use a standard 120-volt outlet and are typically slower, adding about 2-5 miles of range per hour of charging.
  2. Level 2 Chargers: These require a 240-volt outlet and are much faster, adding about 10-60 miles of range per hour of charging.

Most EV owners prefer Level 2 chargers for their speed and efficiency, making them a common upgrade in residential electrical work.

100-200 Amp Electrical Panel Upgrades

Do You Need to Upgrade Your Electrical Panel?

If your home is older or if you’ve been adding new electrical appliances and devices over the years, your current electrical panel might not be equipped to handle the increased load.

Upgrading to a 100-200 amp panel ensures your home can safely support new additions like an EV charger, as well as other modern appliances and home automation systems.

Benefits of Upgrading Your Electrical Panel

  • Increased Capacity: A higher amperage panel can handle more electrical circuits, reducing the risk of overloads and electrical fires.
  • Enhanced Safety: Newer panels come with better safety features, including more reliable circuit breakers.
  • Future-Proofing: As your electrical needs grow, a robust panel will be able to accommodate new technologies and additions without requiring further upgrades.
What size electrical panel do you need?

5 Things to Consider Before Upgrading Your Electrical Panel and Installing an EV Charger

1. Electrical Load Capacity

Why it Matters: Ensuring your home’s electrical system can handle the additional load is crucial. An EV charger and other new appliances significantly increase your household’s electricity demand.

Consideration: Have a professional perform a load calculation to determine if your current panel can handle the new demands or if an upgrade is necessary.

2. Permits and Regulations

Why it Matters: Electrical upgrades often require permits and must comply with local building codes to ensure safety and legality.

Consideration: Check with local authorities or hire a licensed electrician who is familiar with local regulations to handle the permit process for you.

3. Future-Proofing Your Home

Why it Matters: Technology is rapidly advancing, and your electrical needs might grow. Investing in a higher capacity panel now can save you from additional upgrades in the future.

Consideration: Think about your long-term plans, such as installing solar panels, adding a home automation system, or expanding your home, and choose an electrical panel that can support these future upgrades.

4. Location of the EV Charger

Why it Matters: The placement of your EV charger affects convenience, aesthetics, and safety. Ideally, it should be close to where you park your vehicle and easily accessible.

Consideration: Plan the location carefully, considering factors such as proximity to your electrical panel, potential tripping hazards, and the distance to your parking area. You might need to install new wiring or conduits to reach the optimal location.

5. Impact on Home Value

Why it Matters: Upgrading your electrical system and adding an EV charger can increase your home’s market value, making it more attractive to future buyers.

Consideration: Consult with a real estate expert to understand how these upgrades might affect your home’s value in your specific market. Highlight these improvements if you plan to sell your home in the future.

Alternative Solutions: Installing an EV Management System

Not ready to upgrade your electrical panel? 

At Exquisite Electric, we offer an innovative solution for homeowners who want to install an EV charger without increasing their electrical service capacity.

EV management systems offer a cost-effective solution for installing EV chargers without upgrading your electrical panel, but they have potential downsides. 

Pros:

  • Cost-Effective: Avoids the high cost of a full electrical panel upgrade.
  • Convenient Installation: Quicker and simpler to install compared to panel upgrades.
  • Enhanced Safety: Prevents electrical overloads by managing household electrical loads.
  • Code Compliance: Ensures EV charger installation meets electrical code requirements.

Cons:

  • Charging Interruptions: Can lead to intermittent charging if household electrical load is too high.
  • Limited Capacity: Does not increase overall electrical capacity, potentially limiting future high-demand appliances.
  • Compatibility Issues: Not all systems are compatible with every EV charger or home setup.
  • Initial Cost: Requires an upfront investment and professional installation.

At Exquisite Electric, our experienced Calgary electricians can help you decide the best solution for your home, ensuring safe and efficient EV charging. Contact us for expert advice and installation services.

When it Comes to Electrical Upgrades, it’s Crucial to Hire Experienced and Licensed Residential Electricians Near You!

Exquisite Electric - Electricians in Calgary and Okotoks

Finding the Right Electrician to Help You With Your EV Electrical Upgrades

Look for residential electrical contractors who specialize in both residential and commercial electrical services to ensure they have the expertise needed for complex installations like EV chargers and panel upgrades.

Qualities of a hire-worthy Electrician

  • Licensing and Insurance: Ensure they are fully licensed and insured to perform electrical work in your area.
  • Experience: Look for electricians with a strong track record in residential electrical panel upgrades and EV charger installations.
  • Reputation: Check reviews and ask for references to gauge their reliability and quality of work.

 

Exquisite Electric – Your Local Electrical Experts

At Exquisite Electric, we pride ourselves on providing the best residential electrical services in Calgary, Okotoks, and surrounding areas.

We can install your new electrical panel, management system, and EV charging station with speed, safety, and on budget. Our team of licensed residential electricians is here to meet all your EV and home electrical needs.

Why Choose Exquisite Electric?

  • Master-Level Expertise & Trust: With years of experience in electrical panel upgrades and EV charger installations, we ensure your home is safe and up-to-date. A licensed & insured Master Electrician will spearhead your project! 
  • 5-Star Customer Service: We prioritize customer satisfaction, providing clear communication and quality workmanship.
  • Local Knowledge: As Calgary and Okotoks-based electricians, we understand the specific needs and regulations of our community and service areas.

 

So, Do You Need to Upgrade Your Home Electrical if You Buy An EV?

Upgrading your home’s electrical system is a crucial step in supporting the transition to electric vehicles and ensuring the safety and efficiency of your household power.

Whether you need an EV charger installation or an electrical panel upgrade, trust Exquisite Electric to deliver reliable, professional services.

With over 30-combined years of expertise in both home & residential AND business & commercial electrical service… we’re At Your Service!

 

Contact us with all of your home and business electrical questions. Because we’re YOUR local Red Seal, Master Electricians, and are always At Your Service! 

24/7 emergency, lighting, Renos, upgrades, automation…whatever your electrical needs, get in touch today!

We’re proud to serve you as your preferred electricians, Calgary, Okotoks, and the Foothills area.

For all of your home and business electrical needs, we’re here for you.

 

Exquisite Electric

www.exquisiteelectric.com

587-333-3373