Hi, it’s Mike, sharing some knowledge on EV charger installation, centered on the discussions I’ve been having recently with many of our customers.

What is a Fast Charger? —
Fast chargers, or Level 2 chargers, are the game-changers in electric vehicle (EV) technology, significantly reducing charging time from hours to mere minutes. Unlike the Level 1 chargers that come standard with most EVs and plug into a regular household outlet, Level 2 chargers operate on a higher voltage, offering a much quicker and efficient charging experience. This means more time driving and less time waiting for your vehicle to charge. Perfect for home installation, these chargers make owning an EV in San Diego not just feasible but truly convenient.

Do You Have Enough Power for an EV Charger?
So, here’s a story from a few weeks back. I’m talking with a customer who’s in the middle of something exciting – his wife is buying an electric car. We’re discussing the installation of his new car charger, and he sends me a photo of his electrical panel. Now, I really don’t like being the one to dampen anyone’s spirits, especially during such an exciting time. But I had no choice but to break it to him: his panel just couldn’t handle the new charger. He’d need a panel upgrade. Now, this isn’t what he wanted to hear, and the real headache is the wait time with SDGE. It can take them up to 5 months to fit this into their schedule. Sure, my part of the install is a day’s work, but the whole process of getting permits and coordinating with SDGE? That’s a lengthy ordeal. It’s tough giving customers this kind of news, especially when they’re buzzing about a new purchase. Just not the kind of news you want to share during such a happy moment. So what gives? Know. Your. Capacity.

When considering an EV charger installation, it’s essential to evaluate your home’s electrical capacity. Most older homes in San Diego are equipped with electrical panels sized at around 100 to 200 amps, while newer homes may have panels with a higher capacity. Knowing the available capacity is crucial, as a fully functional panel might not have enough room for an EV charger. That may lead to the need for a panel upgrade, especially if you want to add more electric equipment in the near future.

However, don’t let a full panel deter you. There is an innovative solution that lies in the Electric Vehicle Energy Management System (EVEMS), a technology that enables the installation of an EV charger without the need for a panel upgrade. This system intelligently manages your home’s electrical load, allowing the charger to be connected even when it seems like there’s no capacity left, ensuring you can enjoy the benefits of an EV without worrying about your home’s current electrical setup. *This solution is not for everyone so let’s chat.

Peace of Mind?
As your local trusted electrician we pride ourselves on being certified installers for two of the industry’s leading names. We are a Tesla Wall Connector Certified Electrician and a QMerit Certified Installer. Tesla’s rigorous training ensures that we’re adept at installing their state-of-the-art charging equipment, meeting their high standards of quality and safety. Similarly, our certification with QMerit who works with most major car brands stands as a testament to our expertise, backed by a commitment to excellence that guarantees your installation is handled by a trusted, vetted, and highly skilled electrician.

Visit our EV Installation Page for more service information.