Fountain Electric & Services is a leading installer for residential EV charging stations in Western North Carolina and the South Carolina upstate. With 80 years of electrical experience, our team is here to help you make the switch to electric vehicle ownership with confidence. We work with all major EV charging brands and vehicle types, so our trained technicians can install exactly what you need to keep your vehicle charged and ready.
What is a home EV charging station?
A home EV charging station, also called an EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) or Level 2 charger, is a dedicated charging unit installed at your home to power your electric vehicle. Unlike the standard 120-volt outlet that came with your car (Level 1 charging), a Level 2 charging station operates on 240 volts, similar to what powers your electric dryer or oven. This higher voltage dramatically reduces charging time, taking your vehicle from empty to full in just a few hours instead of a full day or more.
Home charging stations are typically mounted on your garage wall or an exterior post near your parking area. They connect directly to your home’s electrical panel through a dedicated circuit and provide safe, reliable charging whenever your vehicle needs it.
What makes a dedicated Level 2 charger better than charging with a standard outlet?
While you can technically charge your EV using the standard 120-volt Level 1 charger that comes with most electric vehicles, there are significant limitations. Level 1 charging typically adds only 3-5 miles of range per hour of charging, meaning it could take 24-48 hours to fully charge a depleted battery. For daily commuters or families with multiple EVs, this simply isn’t practical.
A dedicated Level 2 charging station solves this problem by delivering 15-40 miles of range per hour, depending on your vehicle and charger capacity. This means most EVs can be fully charged overnight. Additionally, Level 2 chargers often include smart features like scheduling, energy monitoring, and app connectivity—features that aren’t available with basic Level 1 charging.
What vehicles can use a home EV charging station?
Nearly all modern electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles can use a Level 2 home charging station. This includes popular models from Tesla, Ford, Chevrolet, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, Volkswagen, BMW, Audi, Rivian, and many others. Most EVs sold in North America use the standard J1772 connector, while Tesla vehicles can use an adapter. Our technicians will ensure your charging station is compatible with your specific vehicle and any future EVs you may own.
What kind of EV charger do I need?
Every home and every driver is different. The right charger for you depends on several factors: your vehicle’s charging capacity, your typical daily driving distance, your home’s electrical capacity, and your budget. For example, someone who drives 30 miles daily may need different charging capabilities than someone with a 100-mile commute or multiple EVs.
Our experts will assess your specific situation, including your electrical panel’s capacity and your parking setup, to recommend the ideal charging solution. We work with all major brands and can help you navigate available rebates and incentives to maximize your investment.
How long does it take to charge an electric vehicle at home?
Charging time depends on three main factors: your vehicle’s battery size, your charger’s power output, and how depleted your battery is. With a typical Level 2 home charging station (40-amp, 9.6kW), most electric vehicles can fully charge in 4-8 hours. Many drivers simply plug in when they get home and wake up to a full charge.
The beauty of home charging is that you rarely need to charge from completely empty to completely full. Most daily driving uses only 20-40% of your battery, which can be replenished in just 1-3 hours with a Level 2 charger.
Why can’t I just install an EV charger myself?
EV charging stations require a dedicated 240-volt circuit and must be installed according to strict electrical codes and manufacturer specifications. Our professional technicians are trained and certified in EV charging installation. For your safety and the safety of your home, we recommend installation from someone who fully understands the complex electrical requirements and potential challenges.
Improper installation can lead to electrical fires, equipment damage, or voided warranties. Our technicians provide peace of mind that your charging station will be installed correctly, safely, and up to code. We guarantee our labor for up to one year.
What benefits do EV chargers offer?
Beyond the obvious benefit of convenient home charging, a professionally installed EV charger increases your home’s value—particularly as electric vehicles become more mainstream. You’ll save thousands of dollars annually on fuel costs, reduce maintenance expenses (no oil changes or transmission repairs), and contribute to a cleaner environment. Plus, you’ll enjoy the convenience of never having to stop at a gas station again.
When is a good time to install an EV charging station?
If you already own an EV or are planning to purchase one, now is the perfect time to install a charging station. Many federal, state, and utility incentives are currently available that can significantly reduce your installation costs. Additionally, installing a charger before you need it ensures you’re ready to go the moment your new vehicle arrives.
Even if you don’t own an EV yet, installing a charging station can be a smart investment that increases your home’s appeal to future buyers and prepares you for the electric future.
If you’re considering an EV charging station for your home and would like more information, our experts are on-hand to answer any questions you may have. Call us today at (828) 287-4343 to learn more.
