Table of Contents
Choosing the Right EV Charger for Your Needs
There are three levels of EV charging that define how to charge your EV and their suitability for different needs.
- Level 1 Chargers:
- Uses a standard 120V household outlet.
- Slowest charging option: 4-5 miles of range per hour.
- Suitable for PHEVs or low-mileage drivers.
- Advantages: No special installation needed, lowest cost.
- Disadvantages: Very slow charging.
- Level 2 Chargers:
- Uses a 240V outlet (like a clothes dryer).
- Adds 20-25 miles of range per hour.
- Most common choice for home charging due to balance of speed and cost.
- Advantages: Faster than Level 1, suitable for most EVs.
- Disadvantages: Requires professional installation, higher upfront cost than Level 1.
- DC Fast Chargers (Level 3):
- Primarily for commercial use, but technically possible for home installation.
- Adds 60-80 miles of range in 20 minutes.
- Requires specialized, expensive equipment – generally impractical for homes.
- Advantages: Fastest charging available.
- Disadvantages: Very high cost, complex installation, usually unnecessary for home use.
Table 1: EV Charger Comparison
| Charger Type | Voltage | Charging Speed (Range per Hour) | Typical Use Case | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | 120V | 4-5 miles | PHEVs, Low-mileage Drivers | Lowest |
| Level 2 | 240V | 20-25 miles | Most EVs, Daily Commuting | Moderate |
| DC Fast Charging (L3) | 480V+ | 60-80 miles (in 20 minutes) | Commercial Use, Rapid Charging | Highest |
Ensuring a Safe and Efficient EV Charger Installation
Outlined below are the key steps and considerations for a successful home EV charger installation.
- Electrical Assessment: A qualified electrician must assess your home’s electrical panel. This is crucial to determine if an electrical panel upgrade is needed to handle the added load of an EV charger.
- Dedicated Circuit: Both Level 1 (though it plugs into a standard outlet, it ideally should have a dedicated circuit if used regularly for EV charging) and Level 2 chargers require a dedicated circuit. This prevents overloading and ensures safety.
- Professional Installation: It is strongly recommended to hire a licensed and insured electrician. The importance of safety and code compliance is essential. Sarkinen Electrical’s expertise is available for these needs.
- Location Considerations: Consider the optimal placement of the charger (garage, driveway, proximity to the electrical panel, weather protection).
- Choosing the Right Charger Hardware: Take into account factors like cord length, amperage rating, and smart features (Wi-Fi connectivity, scheduling, etc.).
Permitting Your EV Charger Installation in Portland
A permit is generally required for EV charger installation in Portland. The Bureau of Development Services (BDS) oversees permitting in Portland. An electrical permit is required for any permanent EV charger hookup with new dedicated circuit runs. An inspection will likely be required after installation.
Actionable Tip: For help finding your electrical provider, check PortlandMaps.
Saving Money on Your EV Charger Installation: Rebates and Incentives
Financial incentives are available to help reduce the cost of EV charger installation.
PGE Level 2 Charger Rebates:
- Standard rebates up to $300.
- Income-qualified rebates up to $1,000.
- Electrical panel upgrade rebate: up to $1,000, or up to $5,000 for income-qualified customers.
PGE Smart Charging Program:
- Earn a $25 credit per season (October to March and April to September) by allowing PGE to pause charging during peak times.
Pacific Power Incentives:
- The ODOT Community Charging Rebates offer rebates for Level 2 home charging: up to $500, capped at 75% of total costs.
Curbside Charging Solutions
The Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) allows Level 1 charging cords to cross sidewalks under specific conditions. To be eligible, the residence must meet requirements to qualify for this allowance (e.g., lack of garage/driveway, cord cover requirements). It is very important to use proper cord covers and follow all PBOT guidelines to ensure pedestrian safety.
Final Thoughts
Investing in a home EV charger is an investment in the future, offering convenience, cost savings, and a reduced environmental footprint. Home EV charging provides many benefits. It is important that you consider professional installation and the availability of incentives.
Ready to Make the Switch to Electric?
Contact Sarkinen Electrical today for a free consultation and expert EV charger installation. Visit our website to learn more about our EV charging services. Let Sarkinen Electrical help you power your journey.
Reference List
- Wallbox. (n.d.). EV Charging 101. Retrieved from https://wallbox.com/en/ev-charging-101
- Mr. Electric. (n.d.). Home EV Charger Installation Guide. Retrieved from https://mrelectric.com/expert-tips/home-ev-charger-installation
- Roth Home. (n.d.). EV Charger Installation Portland, OR. Retrieved from https://www.callroth.com/electrical/electric-vehicle-charger-installation/
- Portland General Electric. (n.d.). Smart Charging program. Retrieved from https://portlandgeneral.com/energy-choices/electric-vehicles-charging/charging-your-ev/charging-your-ev-at-home
- Oregon Department of Transportation. (2024). ODOT’s Community Charging Rebates Program. Retrieved from https://www.oregon.gov/odot/climate/pages/communitychargingrebates.aspx
- Portland Bureau of Transportation. (n.d.). Charging your electric vehicle. Retrieved from https://www.portland.gov/transportation/electric-vehicles/charging-your-ev