Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly common across Phoenix, Chandler, Gilbert, Scottsdale, and Mesa. But relying on public charging stations is inconvenient and often frustrating. Who wants to sit around and wait for 20 minutes or longer to fill up your meter? Plus, public stations aren’t always available when you need them. 60% of EVs are expected to be in suburban areas by 2030 where public charging stations are less common.
However, adding a home unit isn’t as simple as plugging it in. You need an experienced EV charger installer that knows how to calculate electrical loads, work with panels and permits, and do a safe installation. It’s especially important around here where our summer heat already pushes electrical system hard because of the heavy load on our AC units.
Home charging becomes critical and significantly more convenient.
Choosing The Right EV Charger Installer Matters…a Lot
Installing an EV charger is not the same as adding a standard outlet. Most homeowners choose a Level 2 charger, which uses a dedicated 240-volt circuit to deliver faster charging speeds. That higher performance also creates significantly more electrical demand.
If the charger is not properly installed, you risk:
- Frequently tripped breakers
- Overloaded electrical panels
- Reduced charging performance
- Failed inspections
- Safety hazards
- Expensive repairs later
The best EV charger installers will evaluate your entire electrical system to make sure the charger can operate safely alongside air conditioning systems, appliances, etc. They’ll also help you plan for your future needs.
What Qualifications Should an EV Charger Installer Have?
Not every electrician regularly installs EV charging equipment. Homeowners should look for professionals with both electrical expertise and EV installation experience.
Licensed And Insured Electrical Contractor
EV chargers are not DIY projects. Having a friend or unlicensed contractor do it is dangerous. Even if they get it right, you’re risking voiding your homeowner’s insurance if something goes wrong. So, always choose a licensed and insured electrical contractor.
Experience With EV Charging Installations
The best EV charger installers understand the unique requirements of EV charging systems. It typically means adding dedicated circuits, right-sizing your charge, and more. So, look for someone that’s done it before.
Phoenix-area homes may require different installation approaches depending on whether the charger is installed in a garage, driveway, detached structure, or exterior wall exposed to heat and monsoon weather.
Knowledge Of Local Phoenix Area Permitting
Permits are required for EV charger installations throughout the Phoenix metro area, but the requirements vary between Phoenix, Scottsdale, Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, and surrounding cities.
A qualified installer will now the local permit and inspection requirements and ensure the installation meets current code standards.
Ability To Perform Load Calculations
One of the most important parts of EV charger installation is determining whether your home’s electrical system can safely support the added demand.
A professional installer should evaluate:
- Existing electrical usage
- Air conditioning demand
- Available breaker space
- Total panel capacity
- Future electrical needs
Without doing proper load calculations, your home might not support EV charging, especially if you’re already close to maxing out capacity.
Does Your Home Need A Panel Upgrade?
Many older Phoenix-area homes don’t have electrical panels installed that can support EV charging, so you may need an upgraded electrical panel as part of the installation.
Some of the signs you may need an upgrade include
- Older 100-amp electrical panels
- Frequently tripped breakers
- Full breaker panels
- Flickering lights
- Existing heavy electrical demand
- Outdated electrical equipment
Not every home requires a panel upgrade, but an EV charger installer can analyze your system and let you know. But, especially for older homes, this may be needed.
George Brazil Has Experienced EV Charger Installers in Phoenix
Choosing the best EV charger installers helps ensure your charging system is safe, code-compliant, and prepared for long-term use. In Phoenix, George Brazil Plumbing & Electrical has experienced, highly-trained EV charger installers that will get the job done right. Our technicians can install Level 2 EV charges for fast, convenient home charging.
With more than 70 years in business and 35+ years serving the Phoenix Valley, George Brazil installs all major EV charger brands. We know Arizona’s electrical codes for EV charging equipment, handle required permits and inspections, and ensure your installation is safe and warrantied.
Contact George Brazil today for EV charger installation in the Phoenix area.