Electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer a rare sight on the roads of St. John’s. As more people make the switch to greener driving, it’s common for households to have two or more EVs parked in the driveway. Whether you’re planning ahead or already own multiple electric cars, figuring out a home setup that can handle more than one EV charger matters more than ever. A single charging port just won’t cut it if two drivers need to plug in before work.
Getting your home ready to charge multiple EVs means looking at more than just where the chargers will go. From how much power your electrical panel can handle to what kind of EV chargers match your daily routine, there’s a lot to think through. Skipping this planning step can leave you facing slow charge times, tripped breakers, or worse — the need to rip things out and start over. It’s worth getting things sorted early to avoid those headaches later.
Understanding Home Electrical Capacity
Before installing more than one EV charger, you’ll need to figure out if your home’s current electrical system can handle the load. Every house has a limit on how much power can run through its panel. This limit is measured in amps, and many homes in St. John’s may not have enough to run several Level 2 chargers at the same time without putting pressure on the system.
Start by looking at your electrical panel. If it’s already full, you might not have space to add the new circuits needed for more chargers. Even if there’s space, you still need to be sure that the system itself can safely handle the added load. You don’t want to risk overloading your setup and causing possible safety issues.
Signs that your panel might need an upgrade include:
– Your panel is older and rated for 100 amps or less.
– Lights dim when large appliances are running.
– You recently added new large appliances and aren’t sure of your usage limit.
Think about the long term. If you might add a third EV down the road, or other electrical additions like electric heating or backyard features, upgrading your panel now can simplify future work. It also helps avoid multiple service calls.
Even if your panel has enough capacity, how electricity is distributed across your home matters. Uneven load balance can affect energy use and long-term reliability. Proper planning helps avoid unnecessary wear and poor energy efficiency.
Choosing The Right EV Chargers
When you’re planning to charge more than one electric vehicle at home, picking the right charger setup is just as important as knowing your power limits. Different models offer different speeds, features, and installation needs. Choosing the right ones keeps your setup efficient and avoids frustration.
Here are the main types of chargers to think about:
1. Level 1 Charger:
– Plugs directly into a standard 120-volt wall outlet.
– Charges slowly. Often adds just a few kilometres of range per hour.
– Can work well for a second vehicle that doesn’t get used much.
2. Level 2 Charger:
– Requires a dedicated 240-volt circuit.
– Charges much faster than Level 1. Ideal for daily use.
– Good for a main vehicle that needs consistent daily charging.
3. Smart Dual Charger:
– Can charge two vehicles using one setup.
– Often uses load balancing to take turns or split power between vehicles.
– Helpful if your panel can’t support two chargers running at once.
To choose the right type, consider how your household uses the vehicles. Are both needed during the same time each day, like for morning commutes? Or could one charge while the other sits idle?
Some other details to think about:
– Do you have a garage or drive space for both vehicles near outlets?
– Do you need charging speed, or is overnight charging fine?
– Are high-tech scheduling and app controls useful for your routine?
Getting this decision right early can help avoid delays and changes down the road. A charger mismatch might leave you short on charge when you need it or put pressure on your home’s system. Think about your daily habits just as much as technical specs to get a good fit.
Installation Considerations For Multiple EV Chargers
Once you know what types of chargers you want and how much power your system can provide, it’s time to think about how they’ll be installed. The layout of your home and where you park make a big difference in how easy — or hard — the install ends up being.
If both your EVs are parked in the same garage or side-by-side in the driveway, placing the chargers together makes sense. It allows for shorter cable runs and easier access. If they’re parked in different spots, though, your setup may need extra wiring or multiple installation points.
Wall-mounted chargers need a solid mounting surface and certain spacing to meet code. Outdoor installations require weather protection, and both types need to be placed with convenience and safety in mind.
What professionals look for before installation:
– Whether your current wiring is safe and up to code.
– Where your circuits and breakers are located, and if there’s room.
– Which parts of your home’s electrical system may need updates.
– Whether surge protection, waterproofing, and proper grounding are in place.
– Local codes and permits required in St. John’s.
Installing multiple chargers should always be done with the guidance of a certified EV charger electrician. It’s not like plugging in a microwave. Safety is the top concern, and proper installs stop issues before they start. Rushed or incorrect installs can result in system failure or even fires. Getting it done right the first time saves both time and money later.
Benefits Of Professional Installation
Hiring a licensed electrician isn’t just about getting the work done faster. It’s about keeping your home safe and making sure your system works how you need it to. EV charger installation might seem simple — especially with so many models marketed as user-friendly — but when you’re dealing with high voltage, it’s never worth risking it with shortcuts.
A professional will measure your home’s electrical capacity accurately. They’ll figure out the smartest way to route power, avoid overload, and keep everything working smoothly. They also understand the rules. From permits to wiring codes, professional electricians take care of details that a rushed job might miss. That helps protect your home and insurance coverage too.
Here are some long-term benefits of getting a pro to handle installation:
– Safer setups that lower risks of fire and electrical shock
– Thoughtful planning so that your system can grow if your vehicle count increases
– Better understanding of your home’s power use and limits
– Compliance with local building codes in St. John’s
– Peace of mind knowing that the install is legal, safe, and reliable
Some older homes in Newfoundland have aging wiring and limited capacity. Without a professional eye on those systems, problems can go unnoticed until something breaks. Choosing a licensed electrician means your EV setup will be ready for daily use and able to keep up as your needs change.
Power Up Your Home For The Future
As more homes in St. John’s welcome electric vehicles, setting up a reliable charging system is becoming just as important as choosing the right car. Whether you already have two EVs or are just planning ahead, making sure your electrical panel, choice of chargers, and installation are all aligned could save you major repairs and delays in the future.
By understanding your home’s power limitations, selecting chargers that match how you drive, and bringing in a qualified EV charger electrician, you’re setting up for a smoother experience. Charging your vehicles should feel as easy as filling up at the pump once did. And with the right setup, it can be.
Preparing early means fewer problems down the road and the flexibility to grow into tomorrow’s tech. The EV transition isn’t coming — it’s already here. Getting your home ready now is one way to stay ahead of the curve and enjoy stress-free charging on your schedule.
Ready to set up your home to smoothly handle multiple EVs? With careful planning and expert help, you can enjoy charging your vehicles efficiently without any hassles. If you’re looking for a reliable solution in St. John’s, trust ShockFree Electrical to make the process straightforward. Our experienced electricians will ensure safe and effective installations tailored to your needs. Reach out to an experienced EV charger electrician today and get started on future-proofing your electric vehicle charging setup.
