One improperly installed EV charger overheated and was burnt beyond repair
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An investigation by Technical Safety B.C. found that the charger had been incorrectly installed by an unlicensed subcontractor who left loose connections and used inappropriate wiring, leading to arcing and extreme heat that burned out the connector.
The electrician also failed to get the required installation permit and didn’t submit information detailing how the installed charger would impact the electrical load on the home.
Fortunately, the charger was in a detached garage and no other damage occurred.
As the demand for electric vehicles ramps up, the need for home chargers will likely increase.
Here’s what you need to know to safely install an electric vehicle charger at your home:
Do I have to install a special charger for my EV?
Not necessarily. Most EVs come with a Level 1 charger, which plugs into a typical 120 volt home outlet. It can take from 12 to 20 hours to fully charge an EV battery with a Level 1 charger, but doesn’t require any installation.
Level 2 chargers, like the one that caught fire in the Richmond garage, provide much faster charging — typically six to 14 hours. They require a 240 volt outlet, like those used for dryers.
Can anyone install an EV charger?
Yes, but B.C. Hydro recommends hiring a licensed electrician.
If installing yourself, you’ll need to confirm there is enough spare electrical capacity to support EV charging, install a 240 V circuit breaker in your electrical panel, install a 240 V outlet and circuit (unless one already exists), and apply for a permit.
“Most customers have enough capacity to add an EV charger to their panel. They can share their last 12 months of consumption data (available from MyHydro) with their electrician to determine spare capacity,” Kyle Donaldson, a spokesman for B.C. Hydro, said in an email.
“If the customer doesn’t have the electrical capacity to add a Level 2 charger, they might choose an EV power management device as an alternative to the high costs of an electrical service upgrade,” he said.
Where can I find a licensed electrician to install an EV charger?
If you’re buying an EV from an auto dealer, they may offer installation as well.
Do I need a permit?
Are there any rebates or grants for installing an EV charger?
There are.