electric vehicle Archives

Install a Tesla Charger in your Burbank Home

Posted on December 24, 2020 | by K Hopkins

As an EV owner, you are going to need a solution to charging your electric vehicle at your convenience. While Burbank offers up to 42 public charging stations across various sites, you might still prefer installing a Tesla charger in your Burbank home. We have put together all the information you need to do this easily and affordably.

What Charger Should I Buy?

This is often the most common question first time EV drivers ask. Various electric car electric chargers serve diverse purposes. Your options include mostly a level 1 and level 2 charger for home charging stations. The level 1 chargers comprise a 120-volt cord that can be plugged in regular home outlets. They are best for drivers who drive less than 30 miles in a day. Level 1 chargers are the slowest charging at 3-5 miles per hour. Hence, if you drive over 30 miles in a day, you might want to consider a faster charger which is usually level 2. Level 2 EV chargers use a 240-volt cord and dedicated outlet that often have to be installed by an electrician. This charger charges at 10-20 miles per hour.

The Best EV Chargers in 2020

One of the best things about electric charging stations for your Burbank home is that you have a wide range of options. Here’s a list of various top chargers in 2020 and how they compare against each other.

JuiceBox Pro 40A

This charger is a US-made, powerful, 10kW charging station suitable for indoor and outdoor use. It includes an app that gives you control of everything from notifications to scheduling, energy metering, and LED charging light indicators. It is Wi-Fi equipped and portable in structure and appearance. The JuiceBox Pro 40A can either be plugged into an outlet or hard-wired. It is compatible with Amazon Echo/Alexa.

ClipperCreek HCS-40P Plugin

The HCS-40P Plugin is also US made and popular for its durability. It is a level 2 charging station suitable for outdoor use and with the special inclusion of a 3-year warranty. It is a hard-wired charger with a 7.7kW power output. Just like most EV chargers on the market, it has a compact build.

Siemens VersiCharge Home Charger

The brand provides 3 models of this charger, which are hardwire, universal, and smart grid. The hardwire models are the most affordable of the 3. Each model is a level 2 charger with 72kW power output. They are easy to install and use.

EV Charger Incentives in Burbank

By installing a level 2 EV charger in Burbank, you become eligible for a rebate from Burbank water and power (BWP). To apply you must be an active BWP electric customer. Burbank EV owners who charge their vehicles at home/at night can also enjoy the time of use (TOU) electric rate. TOU rates vary across different times of the day and are mandatory for those who apply for the EV charger rebate. The rates are optional for residential customers.

EV charger installations in Burbank should be done by an experienced electrician. The cost of the installation can be anywhere from $200 to $1000, depending on your EV charger needs.

Tesla Vehicles Outshine Competition

Posted on December 17, 2020 | by K Hopkins

Electric vehicles are popular, but even more popular is the brand Tesla that has consistently led others in the industry. For over 15 years, Tesla has been in business and each time they have delivered what EV drivers and the world need.

This has taken Tesla’s market capitalization worth to $300 billion- ahead of other automobile brands even beyond electric vehicles.

There have been several feats that took Tesla from one stage of greatness to the next, and the most recent is the show of efficiency supremacy by the brand.

The United States Environmental Protection Agency just released its rating on 2021 electric cars, and Tesla can be seen standing tall and ahead.

2021 Tesla Model 3 Long Range has an impressive efficiency rating of 134 MPGe.

How or when did this happen?

It all started when Tesla introduced many new 2021 model vehicles and announced changes to others, especially the Model 3.

The most outstanding feature in both the changes and the new lineup was the increased efficiency confirmed by the EPA.

Barely a year ago the Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD got a 121MPGe same as the Model Y Long Range AWD. Now the EPA has confirmed a boost in the efficiency of 134 MPGe rating for combined city and highway driving for the Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD. And a smaller boost of 125 MPGe for combined city and highway driving for the Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD.

Other brands and models such as the Polestar 2 and Volvo XC40, which compete directly with Tesla Model 3 and Y fall at 92 MPGe and 79 MPGe, respectively. The efficiency supremacy is clearer than ever.

These Tesla vehicles now offer drivers more miles and more range on less energy capacity. It also translates to faster charging at the same charging output you’ve likely used before on your EV.

Tesla continues to outshine the competition at every turn, and hopefully, others will take up the challenge to impress sooner than later.

To enjoy your Tesla vehicle regardless of model, improvements, and so on investing in a home charging station is always best.

Be sure to call in the experts at The Electric Connection to help make installation and charging convenient and dependable for you. If you are also experiencing charging issues, electrical problems or need a Tesla Wall Connector installed, we answer promptly to restore order and your peace of mind.

Troubleshooting Your Tesla Wall Connector

Posted on December 16, 2020 | by K Hopkins

As reliable as your Tesla Wall Connector may seem, it’s not far-fetched for problems to come up. Sometimes these issues are easy to troubleshoot on your own. Other times, professional help may be needed. Here are some tips and troubleshooting solutions for your Tesla Wall Connector.

No lights on your Tesla Wall Connector

When you turn your Wall Connector on, the indication of power is the lights. If that doesn’t happen it means you have a power supply problem with no power coming from the breaker panel. This applies especially when your Wall Connector has been working fine before.

To solve this problem, check that the power supply is on. This needs a minimal knowledge of your breaker panel and how it works. It usually involves flipping a breaker back into the on position. If nothing changes, it’s likely time to call an electrician.

The electrician will remove the Wall Connector and check that there is voltage present and fix any issues with the breaker panel that may be the root cause.

The Wall Connector shows a solid red

If you have been using your Tesla Wall Connector for a while, seeing a solid red will stand out to you because the Wall Connector usually comes on with a green light. A solid red can mean a few things and none of them are good news. It could mean the Wall Connector is bad or has an internal fault. Either way, a repair or replacement becomes necessary.

What you can do to solve the situation is to first try turning off the circuit breaker. Wait for a few seconds after before turning it back on. If the solid red light persists, then it’s time to contact Tesla.

One red blink to seven red blink

A red blink code pauses for one second and then repeats itself. The good news is from one red blink to seven red blinks, your Wall Connector can give some indication of what problems need to be fixed.

One blink means there’s a GFCI interruption because of an unsafe current path. There might be damage somewhere.

Check the Wall Connector itself, the handle, cable, and vehicle charge port for signs of contact with water or damage. Call an electrician right after to fix the issue.

Two red blinks mean a ground assurance fault has been detected. Call a certified Tesla electrician to handle this. The electrical technician will have to see if the Wall Connector is properly grounded and check all physical connections alongside.

Three red blinks present a different problem, which is a rise in temperature. This can quickly become a fire hazard and should be attended to by an electrician as soon as possible. You can confirm the issue by checking if the faceplate and cable handle are warm to the touch.

In contrast to what you might be thinking, it doesn’t get worse with four red blinks. Four red blinks simply indicate lost internet connection, and you can check the Wi-Fi settings, router, and signal strength to handle this.

Five red blinks mean an issue with power-sharing communication and can be sorted the same as four red blinks.

Six and seven red blinks generally mean an overvoltage or poor grid quality and need either an electrician or Tesla’s assistance.

Contacting Tesla

We recommend that our customers get in touch with Tesla technical support before contacting us or another electrician. We’ve had several customers recently have to have their Wall Connectors replaced by Tesla due to some kind of manufacturing defect. They can help you troubleshoot and do a diagnostic test. Please call 650-681-6133.

Note: For Wall Connector installations where you have breakers tripping, it may likely be an issue with the setting in your Wall Connector which you need to commission.

For WiFi commissioning support:

You may contact Tesla at 877-961-7652 between the hours of 8am to 5pm Pacific time Monday through Friday. Please be sure that you are home with the Wall Connector, you have the TPN (the part number), the TSN (the serial number), and you have connected the Wall Connector to the internet prior to calling. One of the troubleshooting steps is to get the Wall Connector, if it is a gen 3, to the internet. Please select the link below which will direct you to our website which includes the directions on connecting the Wall Connector to the internet. If the Wall Connector was installed the Online Orders department will not be able to assist with an exchange, however we will be able to complete the troubleshooting steps and if the troubleshooting doesn’t work then it may qualify your system for replacement.

Tesla Charger Installations in Beverly Hills Homes

Posted on December 14, 2020 | by K Hopkins

Statistics show that over 4.8 million electric vehicles were in use globally in 2019. With sales of electric cars rising each year, owning one might just be a healthy trend here to stay.

If you’ve joined the growing number of EV drivers, then you probably know owning these sleek and convenient Tesla vehicles involves establishing a solution for charging needs.

Most people install a charger in their Beverly Hills home while others depend on public charging. A Tesla charger installation in your Beverly Hills home is certainly the best option, so read on to see what is involved.

Facts about installing a Tesla charger in the home

You may need to upgrade your electrical system

Electric cars charge their battery with electric power, and that requires a lot of electricity. To install a Tesla charger, your home must have the capacity for it, otherwise you’ll need a service upgrade first.

There are levels involved

Tesla charger installation in Beverly Hills homes comes with making a choice between slow chargers and fast chargers. These are level 1 and level 2 Tesla chargers, respectively. Installing a level 2 fast charger is always the ideal option, but depending on your needs and preferences you might opt for a level 1. Level 1 chargers are cheaper and will not need you to upgrade your service panel to use them. They draw little power and charge as slowly as 3-5 miles/hour. Level 2 chargers are faster and suitable for home use. They also require expertise to set up, and if your system can’t accommodate the 240-volts level 2 charger/ outlet, you will need that upgrade.

You have specific locations for the installation

A Tesla charging station should be installed in your garage or driveway. This is both safer and ideal because they are areas where you park your vehicle overnight. If none of these is workable for you, your electrician can help with determining a suitable spot.

Manufacturers play a role

There are various electrical vehicles on the market and not just Tesla. The manufacturers’ instructions or recommendations for your specific EV play a role in many things you do.

How to get Tesla charger installations in Beverly Hills

Find the right electrician

Installing your Tesla charger isn’t a DIY project. You shouldn’t try it yourself at all. You will need a professional electrician who is experienced with EV charger installations. Ask for recommendations near you or skip the hassle and contact us here.

Request a quote

The installation quotes for EV chargers can vary across electricians. Be sure to ask your electrician for his quotes beforehand and compare if you have other options. But never choose based on the cheapest price.

Order your Tesla charger

There are various brands for EV chargers, and Tesla also offers its dedicated charging systems. Order your charger and have it ready for installation.

You can get away with consistent public charging, but it’s not all free and convenient as a charger installed in your Beverly Hills home.

Ways to Save Money on Electric in Pasadena

Posted on November 30, 2020 | by K Hopkins

Everyone would like to save on the electric bill and if you live in Pasadena, it’s easier than you think. The Pasadena department of water and power offers various residential programs to help reduce those staggering bills while you enjoy a more energy-efficient home or building.

Here are some ways to save money on electricity in Pasadena;

Use energy-efficient appliances

You can get efficiency rebates from the Pasadena department of water and power when you use energy-efficient equipment. For example, the PWP gives a $75 rebate if you buy a new refrigerator and $15 if the refrigerator is bought in Pasadena. Fridges over 4 years old are less efficient than new models, which are 25% better.

Similarly, you will receive $25 for buying a new, energy efficient dishwasher or $30 for a dishwasher that is Energy Star certified. Recent dishwashers can use 30% less water than their older counterparts.

Clothes washer rebates are as high as $300 from SoCal Water$mart and PWP when you use the right models. Aside from the rebates, a high-efficiency clothes washer can use 45% less power and 25% less energy than regular models.

Even toilets are not left out as you can receive a $100 rebate for replacing your regular toilet with a premium toilet, saving over $800 on your electric bill in Pasadena.

More juicy rebates also apply to your HVAC system, pool pump, insulation, sprinklers, laundry system, and so on.

Develop a greener lifestyle

Thanks to technology, there are still various ways to save energy and go green. Electric cars are getting more popular by the day. According to the PWP, you will receive rebates anywhere from $250 – $1000 for purchasing EV vehicles, purchasing EV vehicles in Pasadena, or installing a standard EV charger.

More rebates also apply to buying appliances or green lifestyle tools like electric heat pump water heater, electric clothes dryer, electric ovens, electric pump clothes dryer, and using solar systems.

Get in on low-income programs

Sometimes paying the bill can be tough and Pasadena offers low-income programs to help you save on the bill. The programs include monthly bill payment assistance, free home improvement services, energy savings assistance program, and more.

To benefit from any rebates or programs you would have to apply and make sure you meet the requirements.

Enforcing other tips in power use can also help you conserve energy and get a lower bill.

These include

Use LED lights.
Set your thermostat to low
Wash only when you have full loads
Use your microwave as an alternative to cooking.
Don’t over-dry clothes
Use appliances before 7pm more often.
Unplug appliances from the switch when not in use.
Call Pasadena electrician for an audit to see where you can save more power.

Tesla Wall Connector: Gen 2 VS Gen 3

Posted on October 24, 2020 | by K Hopkins

Earlier this year, particularly January Tesla unveiled the 3rd generation wall connector. Since then everyone has been trying to know what’s good and what’s better with this new charger. If your Gen 2 Tesla charger is working just fine, why would you possibly be motivated to consider Gen 3?

We answer all the questions in this review below.

What’s Different?

Appearance. It’s almost the first thing you notice with this Gen 3 EV charger. The new electric charger’s fresh look comes as a glass front display on a white background, keeping the brand name font and color on its surface. In contrast, the Gen 2 Tesla EV charger has a plastic silver or black cover.

Power. The Gen 2 wall connector has always been a more powerful option, as it’s able to deliver up to 80 amps of power to your electric car. The Gen 3 however is limited to a maximum of 48 amps. But wait before you conclude, it’s important to remember that there are no electric vehicles – regardless of brand – that can charge at over 48 amps. Aside from this being Tesla’s way of sticking with the maximum power output, electricians can tell you that fewer amps mean less heat. Gen 2 electric chargers have often had overheating and sparking problems because of the heat.

Cable length. For the Gen 2, electric car owners can enjoy the flexibility of a 24 feet cable. This new Gen 3 charger falls short in this area with only 18 feet from Tesla. This can count as a significant disadvantage in most cases. Seeing as a standard 2-car garage in the United States is a 24’ by 24’ it’s vital to have a cable that can reach most corners.

Cable size. This will probably bring a smile to your face as Gen 2 users are all too familiar with the heavy and thick cable of Gen 2 electric chargers. With Gen 3 electric car charger the cable is lighter, thinner, and easier to manage. This also contributes to making the entire charger weigh less. It’s a good advantage from Tesla and one users will enjoy.

Wi-Fi. For all those who are tech-savvy and convenience-conscious, it’s wonderful to hear that the new Tesla charger is Wi-Fi enabled, and it allows you to connect the unit with your smartphone. But at the same time, some users have mentioned having no connection with their Gen 3 charger and app, while others say the smart charger can connect with the car. The use comes mainly by accessing the network with your computer to get updates and set up the charger. There is a strong possibility of more updates with the Wi-Fi from Tesla.

Load sharing. The former charging unit allowed load sharing with up to 4 connected units while the new Gen 3 allows load sharing for up to 16 devices wirelessly.

Cost. To our amazement, the cost of the Gen 3 electric car charger is the same $500 price as the older Gen 2 unit. It’s safe to assume that the various limitations on the Gen 3, when compared with Gen 2, helped cut cost and make this elite charger affordable.

Low-Cost Tesla Charger Installation

Posted on September 19, 2020 | by K Hopkins

Having an electric car or a Tesla is already a great way to save on costs such as maintenance and fueling. It equally helps the environment and can make owning a car more convenient.

Despite the lack of high maintenance and fueling costs, installing a Tesla charger can be a bit financially demanding. Read on to discover the average costs and how to obtain a low-cost Tesla charger installation.

Electric Car Charging Station Costs

The average cost range for a home EV charging station is $850-$2,200. The minimum cost is $300 for replacing a level 1 charging solution and maximum cost $4,500 across all home charging solutions.

Level 1 charging solutions use a 120volt outlet. They are cost-effective, portable, and ideal for those who drive long distances. Payment of up to $300 is only necessary when you need a second charger or a replacement. The drawback of level 1 charging solutions is the slow charging time, which can be as much as 24 hours for a full charge.

Level 2 charging solutions are the most commonly used by EV drivers. They offer faster charging of just a few hours but come with a higher installation cost than level 1. Level 2 charges use a 240volts outlet, are equally portable, and can be installed via mounting or hardwiring. Level 2 charging stations often come with extra features like Wifi connectivity and can be specific to a type of car. The costs for this charging solution range from $300 – $1200.

Tesla Charger Installation Costs

Tesla electric vehicles require special chargers or adaptors if the need arises to charge a Tesla vehicle with another charging station. All Tesla EV comes with the standard level 1 chargers that work easily with a 120volt outlet.

For a level 2 charger, it’s advisable to purchase any of Tesla’s specific charging stations. These usually cost about $500 with installation costs and any other expenses rounding up to around $1,100.

Tesla Charger Installation with Other Brands.

If you are looking to purchase other brands of charging stations for your Tesla vehicle, your list can easily be narrowed down to just very few brands compatible with Tesla. One of these options is JuiceBox, which costs between $570 and $600. JuiceBox features include compatibility with Tesla, durability, a locking feature, and Wifi connectivity. It has to be mounted for use.

General Costs Involved in Tesla Charger Installation

With the level 1 charging option, you can save up on hiring an electrician. Using the level 2 option, however, will require an electrician to install the unit. The average cost per hour for hiring an electrician ranges from $65 to $85. You might also need permits to carry out the installation and this can attract a total cost of $100 – $200. Opting for a wall mount can also add another $300 – $600 to the installation cost.

Install an EV Charging Station at Home in 2020

Posted on September 10, 2020 | by K Hopkins

When you own an electric car an EV charging station at home is almost a necessity. It offers you convenience and the chance to have your car charged and ready to go when you need it. Depending on the charging option you use, the installation can be easily affordable or expensive.

Read on as we explore the types of EV charging and how they are installed.

Level 1 electric car charger

Level 1 chargers are the most accessible and affordable option. The charger comes with your electric vehicle and requires no special installation. You only need a 120volt wall outlet to plug in the charger. It’s easy to set up yourself and bears no extra costs, as a standard 120volt outlet can be found in almost every home.

The major drawback with this option is the slow/trickle charge of level 1 charging stations. You will need to charge for longer and not drive many miles.

Level 2 electric car charger

While level 1 chargers are slower and more affordable to use, level 2 EV chargers are the opposite. To use a level 2 charger you need a 240volt outlet run from your breaker to the charging station. This installation will require the expertise of an electrician. The electrician will first determine if your breaker panel can accommodate the addition. If not, you will need an upgrade to have enough power for the charging station. The installation process involves attaching a double-pole circuit breaker at once to two 120volt buses using a 4-strand cable. Be sure to turn off the power in the electric panel during this project to prevent shocks or accidents.

After connecting the circuit breaker to the buses, run the fully insulated 4-strand cable to the location for the charging station. Mount your charging unit and attach it to a 240volt cable. Permits and inspections are often required for this charging station installation. The cost to hire an electrician for the installation is often between $200 and $1200.

Level 3 electric car charger

Level 3 chargers are the most expensive and power-demanding. They are mainly used in commercial and industrial buildings. Level 3 chargers are also known as DC Fast Chargers and are easily recognized in public charging stations. They cannot be installed at home. Level 3 chargers offer the fastest charge and are not compatible with all electric vehicles. The costs to use public EV charging stations vary.

Los Angeles Electrician Explains EV Chargers

Posted on July 12, 2020 | by K Hopkins

The level of convenience electric vehicles offer makes them more attractive by the day. More drivers are opting for this green way of driving and reaping the benefits that include cheaper maintenance and no more gas station stops.

Joining thousands of electric car owners isn’t so hard to accomplish. What does confuse owners and drivers still looking to get an EV sometimes, is the concept of charging.

So yes, while you ditched the gas station you still have to power up your vehicle but with a convenient way known as EV charging. There are public EV chargers that you can easily find along your route or even at your workplace. However, being able to charge at home most likely at night is vital for most people.

According to our Los Angeles electricians, you have two options called level 1 and level 2 chargers. Level 1 chargers are easily found in the home, although you need a dedicated circuit for your electric car. They are slow but will get the job done as long as you have got the time.

Level 2 chargers

The most popular home charging option is the level 2 charger. If you are familiar with a 240-volt outlet, then you know what we are talking about. This charger is both faster and more efficient.

Regardless of if you are going for a level 1 or 2 chargers, it’s important to know DIY is not recommended for the installations.

Aside from the technicalities involved that require the expertise of a professional electrician who is experienced with EV chargers and installation, the installation will be inspected once completed. Also, purchasing the electric car or plug-in often comes with incentives that help cover the costs of charger installations. So why take the risk with DIY?

The costs of level 2 chargers vary but with a range from below $500 to above $1000. The cost is influenced by preference to cord length, amperage, installation types, and so on.

You want a charger that comfortably runs from its outlet or switch to your EV. Where you park your EV and where the switch will be located makes up the cord length you want to go for. A rule of thumb is to go for a length a few inches longer than your exact needs. This is because once set up you can’t make any adjustments to cord length without having to get a new set up. 16-18 foot cords are a recommended length.

Amperage for level 2 chargers are usually either 16 amps or 30 amps. 16 amps are great for plug-ins and 30 amps should be a default for future-proof reasons.

To install an EV charger, you must confirm that your home’s electrical system is up to the task. A panel upgrade might be required if your electrician discovers that the current system can’t take the extra load.

Appropriate locations to install your EV chargers are the garage and driveway. For the driveway or any outdoor EV installations, be sure to get a unit with a weatherproof rating.

What Size Breaker Does a Tesla Need?

Posted on May 23, 2020 | by K Hopkins

Having an electric car is great and very much a trendy decision. When you have the EV of your choice parked in your garage, the most important question that follows is what size breaker does a Tesla need. Your electric car may save on fuel but it needs electric power to work, and this starts with a suitable breaker size.

The most efficient charging option is a level two charge and this usually requires up to 50 amps circuit. Your electrician can provide an estimate for installing this, but there’s a high possibility it will involve upgrading your electrical service panel. Older homes often carry a 100 amps breaker, which may be sufficient for the average homeowner who has very few power-demanding appliances. Hence, a Tesla charger just won’t fit and an upgrade to a 200 amp panel would be necessary. Also, the electrician will have to run a line of 40 or 50 amps to the charging spot.

If you already have a 200 amp service all that is left is to install the new circuit and run a line to the spot the charger will be used.

While this is an ideal option, not everyone can handle the cost or hassle of a new service panel. When this happens, there are still ways around it to ensure you can get the charge you need. A level one charger is a basic part of every Tesla and it can be plugged into any dedicated outlet. This outlet can deliver on 12amps of power and that translates to 40 miles during an overnight charging session. If this isn’t sufficient for you, you may consider charging at work or in public places. However, if you need about 100 miles or more, you may have to use the ideal solution of upgrading your panel and using a level 2 charge.

There’s also an option known as the slow level two charge which allows you to use the 30 amp plug used for appliances like the dryer. This allows the car to charge at 24 amps overnight. Bear in mind that the average Tesla can’t take over 32 amps, which is a 40 amps circuit in the first place. The 24 amps will give between 17-22 mph on Tesla models.

To make this work conveniently you can switch to a natural gas dryer. Yes, it will cost you, but the price might be more comfortable than a service panel upgrade. This way you can conveniently use that 30 amp plug for your Tesla.

If you can’t decide on what’s best, reach out to us for further consultation. Our professional and experienced Los Angeles electricians will help you with the most suitable options.