Do You Need a Subpanel for Your Home EV Charger in Buffalo Grove?

A charger for your electric vehicle (EV) can be a great addition to your Illinois home, adding to its convenience as well as its overall property value. However, it also adds to your home’s electrical demand; if your home’s current electrical system wasn’t designed with this in mind, then you could need an EV charger subpanel in Buffalo Grove to accommodate the demand.

What Is a Subpanel?

Your main electrical panel provides safe power distribution for your entire home; however, it only has so much capacity and space for additional circuits. High-demand devices, like EV chargers, may therefore require a subpanel for their dedicated 240-volt circuit. With one, you’ll ensure you have a reliable power supply without overloading your main panel.

Why EV Chargers Often Need Subpanels

Level 2 EV chargers require those aforementioned dedicated 240-volt circuits, and they can draw anywhere between 30 and 60 amps, which is a significant addition to your home’s electrical load. In fact, that much power simply can’t flow safely through standard circuits; it will trip breakers immediately. As such, if your panel is already near capacity, then adding that new circuit is going to require a subpanel.

Signs Your Home Will Need a Subpanel

The age of your home is one of the most significant factors in whether you’ll need a subpanel; older homes simply weren’t made with modern conveniences like EV chargers in mind. 

If you’ve already introduced sizable additions, such as a new HVAC system, then your panel is very likely to be near capacity. You’ll need an electrician to visit your home and ascertain whether you’ll need a subpanel.

Why Professional Installation Is Essential

Electrical work of any kind can be dangerous, but installing an EV charger poses additional, unique hazards. If not properly installed, then the high demand on the circuit can lead to damage to your panel and increase the risk of electrical fires.

Find Out More About an EV Charger Subpanel in Buffalo Grove

If you’re planning on installing an EV charger for your home, reach out to the team at Klees Electric Inc., and we’ll evaluate your home’s electrical supply to determine whether you need an EV charger subpanel in Buffalo Grove. Reach out today to schedule service.