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What electric capacity do I need to have, so my EV charger is working?

The electric capacity required for an EV charger depends on several factors, including the power rating of the charger and the electrical infrastructure of your home or property. Here are some key considerations:

  1. Charger Power Rating: EV chargers come in various power ratings, typically measured in kilowatts (kW). The power rating of the charger will determine how much electrical capacity is needed to operate it. For example, a 7 kW charger requires less electrical capacity (and is usually using 1 phase) than a 22 kW charger (which is usually connected to 3-phases).
  2. Electrical Service Capacity: The electrical service capacity of your home or property refers to the maximum amount of electrical power that your electrical system can provide. This is typically measured in amps (A) or kilovolt-amperes (kVA). The higher the electrical service capacity, the more electrical appliances and devices your home can support simultaneously, including EV chargers. CleverEV can introduce a maximum charging power to prevent exceeding the available electrical capacity.
  3. Existing Load: Consider the existing electrical load in your home, including appliances, lighting, heating, and other devices. Adding an EV charger will increase the overall electrical demand, so it’s important to ensure that your electrical service capacity can accommodate the additional load without overloading the system.
  4. Electrical Panel Capacity: The capacity of your electrical panel, measured in amps, determines how much electrical power can be distributed throughout your home. If your electrical panel doesn’t have enough spare capacity to accommodate the EV charger, you may need to upgrade it to a higher capacity panel. CleverEV can introduce a maximum charging power to prevent exceeding the available electrical capacity.
  5. Circuit Capacity: EV chargers typically require a dedicated circuit with its own circuit breaker. The capacity of this circuit should match or exceed the power rating of the charger to ensure safe and efficient operation.

Before installing an EV charger, it’s recommended to consult with a qualified electrician to assess your home’s electrical capacity and determine the appropriate size and type of charger for your needs. They can help ensure that your electrical system can support the charger safely and effectively, and they can make any necessary upgrades or modifications to accommodate the new load.