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Charging & Installation
You have options when it comes to electric car charging equipment and installation, and they will be influenced by your choice of electric car models and your driving habits. If your electric car has a smaller battery, or if you simply drive less, you can charge your electric car within a few hours using a standard household 120-volt outlet. If your electric car has a larger battery or you drive more, you may want a home charging station or dock for faster charging. Call us before you buy your electric car, and we’ll help you understand how to safely and effectively transform your home into your own personal electric car fueling station.
Plugging In: Your Own Charging Station
To fuel your car at home, you’ll need access to at least a standard 120-volt outlet in a convenient location where you can park and charge. If you want to charge faster, you will need a dedicated 240-volt circuit and an electric car charging station. Be sure to have a qualified electrician inspect your outlet, because charging an electric car may overload an existing household circuit, particularly if it serves other household needs like lights and appliances. Your qualified electrician can advise whether you need a dedicated circuit breaker or an upgrade to your circuit breaker panel.
The Installation Process
Whether or not you plan to install a charging station, a call to our SCE Home Fuel Advisors™ is where the process begins. We’ll help you consider your rate plan options because your choice will affect the upgrades needed for your electrical panel and meter. Then it’s time for your Electrical Vehicle Service Equipment (EVSE) installer or qualified electrician to inspect your home, install your new equipment, and perform any necessary upgrades to your home’s electrical wiring. Installation costs will vary, and your installer will be able to provide an estimate based on your needs. Your city or county may also require permits and inspections, which can be facilitated by you, through your EVSE installer, or by your qualified electrician.
Do You Rent Your Home or Belong to an HOA?
If you are a renter or a member of a homeowners association, getting ready to charge your electric car means shared decisions to be made with your property owner or manager. Factors like applicable rate plans, cost responsibility, and parking space allocation all come into play. If you are a tenant, or live in a building with shared parking, you’ll need to consult with your landlord or property manager before beginning installation of electric car charging equipment. We offer helpful information for landlords and property managers on our business customer page for rental properties.
Charging: Levels & Times
There are 2 charging levels—or voltages—for charging electric cars. Higher voltage levels charge batteries faster, but often require an investment in additional equipment and electricity wiring upgrades.
Charging Equipment Standards
The Society of Automotive Engineers has established a uniform “connector” standard for Level I and Level II charging. Most, if not all, electric cars on the market now or due to launch over the next several years comply with this standard, so your vehicle will be compatible with any equipment at a Level I or II charging level. A nationwide standard for a DC fast charging plug is now under development, and no single connector standard has been established yet to serve all car models.