How Often Should I Have My Electrical System Inspected?

It's recommended to have a professional electrician inspect your electrical system every three to five years. Regular inspections help identify potential issues, ensuring the safety and reliability of your home or business. Our team at Electric City is well-versed in finding electrical issues during inspections.

What Are Signs That I Need to Upgrade My Electrical Panel?

Frequent tripped breakers, flickering lights, and an outdated electrical panel are clear signs that an upgrade is necessary. These issues can indicate overload, wear, or obsolescence, compromising safety. Upgrading your electrical panel improves safety and efficiency in your home or business by meeting the needs of modern appliances and technologies.

Why Are My Lights Flickering & Should I Be Concerned?

Flickering lights may signal various issues, including loose bulbs, faulty wiring, or problems in the electrical system. While occasional flickering might be due to minor causes, persistent or severe flickering could indicate an underlying problem, potentially compromising safety. Have a professional electrician quickly assess the situation to identify the root cause and address potential hazards. Electric City provides inspections and repair services to ensure your lighting system operates safely.

How Can I Improve Energy Efficiency in My Home or Business?

Improving energy efficiency involves various strategies for both homes and businesses. Consider upgrading to LED lighting, using energy-efficient appliances, and installing programmable thermostats. Additionally, ensure proper insulation, seal air leaks, and schedule regular maintenance for HVAC systems. Electric City provides personalized energy-saving services to help you save energy, cut utility expenses, and support a greener environment.

What Should I Do During a Power Outage at My Home or Business?

During a power outage, prioritize safety by turning off major appliances to prevent overload when power is restored. Use flashlights instead of candles for lighting, and avoid opening the refrigerator to keep food cold longer. If the outage persists, unplug sensitive electronic devices to protect them from potential power surges when electricity returns. Consider having a backup power source, like a generator, for essential appliances. Electric City can assist you with standby generator installation, ensuring uninterrupted power during outages at your home or business.

A woman plugging in her electric vehicle into her home charger.

The Complete Guide to EV Charger Installation

If you own or are looking to own an Electric Vehicle (EV), having a reliable way to charge it at home is a game-changer. Installing an EV charger at your place is not just convenient—it’s an efficient choice that saves you time and money. Today, Electric City will cover everything you need to know about getting an EV charger installed, from the different types available to the installation process.

Why Install an EV Charger at Home

Having an EV charger at home offers several great benefits. First, you won’t have to depend solely on public charging stations, which can be a hassle. Although public charging stations are becoming more common, nothing beats the reliability of charging at home. With your own charger, you can simply plug in your vehicle when you get home, ensuring it’s ready for your next trip.

Charging at home is usually cheaper, too! You can benefit from lower electricity rates during off-peak hours, making it more cost-effective than using public chargers. Plus, you can charge your car at your convenience, fitting it into your routine without any stress.

Types of EV Chargers: What’s Right for You?

When it comes to EV chargers, you have three main options: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. Here’s a quick look at each one:

Level 1 Chargers: These basic chargers typically come with your EV. They plug into a standard 120-volt outlet and provide about 3-5 miles of range per hour. They’re handy but might not be ideal for longer-range EVs.
Level 2 Chargers: These chargers are popular for home installations. They use a 240-volt outlet, similar to what you’d use for a dryer, and can add 10-25 miles of range per hour. They balance speed and cost, making them a solid choice for most homes.
Level 3 Chargers (DC Fast Chargers): These are the fastest chargers and can provide up to 200 miles of range in just 15-30 minutes. However, they’re usually found at public charging stations due to their higher cost and special electrical requirements.

How Long Does Charging Take?

Charging times can vary based on the type of charger and your vehicle’s battery size. Here’s a general idea:

Level 1 Charger: Depending on the battery size, a full charge takes about 8 to 24 hours.
Level 2 Charger: This option usually charges an EV in 4 to 8 hours.
Level 3 Charger: These can get you 80% charged in as little as 15-30 minutes for a quick top-up.

Keep in mind that these are just estimates. Your vehicle and specific conditions will affect charging times.

Steps to Install Your EV Charger

Installing an EV charger is a highly technical process, so you’ll need the help of an expert electrician. Here’s a breakdown of the process from start to finish:

Check Your Electrical Panel: An electrician needs to evaluate your panel to ensure it can handle the charger. They may suggest an upgrade if necessary.
Choose the Best Location: Find a spot close to your parking area and free of obstacles.
Get Permits: Depending on local regulations, you might need permits. Your electrician can help with this.
Install the Charger: Your electrician will follow the manufacturer’s instructions and local codes to install the charger safely.
Test It Out: Once installed, your electrician will test the charger to make sure everything works perfectly.

Always hire a licensed electrician for this process to ensure safety and compliance.

Picking the Right EV Charger

Choosing the right charger can feel overwhelming, but consider these factors:

Charging Speed: Think about how quickly you need to charge your vehicle. If you mostly charge overnight, a Level 2 charger is likely enough. If you want faster options, look into Level 3 chargers.
Vehicle Compatibility: Make sure your chosen charger works with your EV model. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines for compatibility.
Battery Capacity: Larger batteries may need more powerful chargers to minimize charging time.
Installation Location: Decide if you need your charger indoors or outdoors. If it’s outdoors, make sure it’s weather-resistant.

By considering your vehicle’s specifics and consulting with an electrician, you can choose an EV charger that perfectly suits your needs.

Find an Expert Electrician at Electric City

When you’re ready to install an EV charger, you want a licensed electrician who knows their stuff. At Electric City in Katy, TX, our skilled electricians are here to help you every step of the way.

We handle everything from assessing your electrical panel to choosing the correct charger. We’ll guide you through permits and ensure everything is up to code. Our team understands the ins and outs of EV charger installations, and we’re eager to hear from you!

Schedule Your EV Charger Installation with Electric City in Katy TX Today

Choosing Electric City means you’re in good hands. We prioritize your satisfaction and aim to make the installation process easy and stress-free. Reach out to us today to schedule your installation and enjoy the convenience of charging at home.

Contact Electric City for all your EV home charger needs by calling us at 832-990-0467 or filling out our online contact form.