Question 1

Would you come to my home to repair my charging station if anything breaks?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Homeowners can purchase service agreements for their EV charging stations. Most equipment also comes with a guarantee. For instance, Qmerit offers a one-year guarantee on the installation. Additionally, Qmerit’s network of installation service providers offers maintenance service programs to regularly inspect the EV charging station and provide any needed preventive maintenance. Learn more about Qmerit’s maintenance and repair services for home EV chargers.

Question 2

Will using a heat pump help offset household carbon emissions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Modern heat pumps are very energy efficient compared to other heating systems. Heat pumps typically use 50% less energy than conventional heating system requirements.

Question 3

Will utilizing a heat pump lower my annual heating costs?

Accepted Answer

The amount a heat pump will lower your home heating costs depends mainly on the size of your house, its insulation, the prevailing climate, the pump’s SEER, and the cost of electricity, gas, or oil in your area (as a point of comparison for the fuel you used before installing the heat pump). An online heat pump cost savings calculator can provide an accurate estimate of the savings you can expect.

Question 4

Will solar integration work with my existing solar panels?

Accepted Answer

You can integrate most solar panels with other energy management components. You can use integration to optimize your energy harvesting, consumption and management. Your best integration options will depend upon your particular circumstances. Consult a certified installer to evaluate your options and determine your best course of action.

Question 5

Will I need a panel upgrade for my EV charger installation?

Accepted Answer

Your Qmerit-certified installer will conduct a professional evaluation and perform a load calculation to determine the capacity available for EV charging. If your panel lacks sufficient capacity, your installer can provide a price estimate for an electrical upgrade.

Question 6

Why should I use solar integration?

Accepted Answer

Solar panels are sometimes an all-or-nothing solution. They are incredibly efficient at converting sunlight to power and often provide more energy than needed during the day. Then when the sun goes down, they offer no energy at all. Solar integration allows panel owners to harvest and save that energy, use it as needed, and store it for when the sun doesn’t shine. Learn more about the benefits of solar integration.

Question 7

Why should I use energy storage instead of solely solar panels?

Accepted Answer

Solar panels offer many energy independence advantages, but those advantages evaporate when the sun goes down. Energy storage equipment can help improve that situation. Energy storage captures solar power and stores it for future use. This partnership provides true energy independence.

Question 8

Why do I need to provide a deposit to schedule my EV charger installation?

Accepted Answer

The deposit secures your project with a Qmerit-certified installer and allows them to initiate the permit process. If you choose to cancel your project at any time, your deposit will be fully refunded. Otherwise, it will be deducted from the installation cost.

Question 9

Who is Qmerit?

Accepted Answer

Qmerit is North America’s leading provider of installation services for EV charging and other electrification technologies. Together with our nationwide certified-installer network, we set the industry standard for safety, service quality, and customer support. Our electricians are licensed, insured and background-checked, and every installation is backed by the exclusive Qmerit Peace of Mind Guarantee.

Question 10

Who do I pay for my EV charger installation?

Accepted Answer

Once your installation is completed, Qmerit will send you an invoice for the cost of installation, permits and any service upgrades that were required. If your auto manufacturer or program sponsor offered any installation credits, they will be deducted from your balance due.

Question 11

Who can benefit the most from nanogrids?

Accepted Answer

Nanogrids can benefit homeowners who want to increase their energy independence, reduce their energy bills, and have backup power during outages, as well as those who live in remote or off-grid locations. Businesses may also find value in nanogrids or microgrids by providing reliable and secure energy. Learn more about the advantages of nanogrids.

Question 12

Which Level 2 EV charger brands should I consider?

Accepted Answer

If you need a Level 2 charging station, check out our “Shop” page for exclusive deals from a few of our partners.

Question 13

Which home EV charger should I buy?

Accepted Answer

Qmerit recommends asking your vehicle’s manufacturer which charger they prefer. Your installer can also help you choose a charger, and you can find exclusive discounts from Qmerit partners on our EV Charger Store.

Note: If you are a fleet customer, please contact your Qmerit concierge for information on the charger that is provided with your program.

Question 14

What’s the difference between Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 (DCFC) EV charging?

Accepted Answer

Level 1 Level 1 is charging at home with a 120-volt circuit (i.e., using a standard electrical outlet). Level 1 chargers are the slowest, with an output of 120 volts and 3 to 5 miles per hour of charging time.

Level 2 is charging with a 240-volt circuit in the home or workplace. This provides higher charging speeds—from 15 to 60 miles per hour depending on the charging station you select.
This requires professional installation of either a NEMA 14-50 outlet or a hardwired charging station, but Qmerit and our certified installers make it easy. Nobody is more experienced than Qmerit, and our safe, hassle-free installation services are recommended by top automakers and charger brands.

Level 3 or Direct Current Fast Charging (DCFC) uses a 480-volt DC circuit, and typically provides about an 80% charge in just 30 minutes. These charging stations are generally found at commercial sites such as shopping centers or highway rest areas.

For more information please read our article comparing Level 1 and Level 2 EV Charging at Home.

Question 15

What’s included in the EV charger installation cost?

Accepted Answer

The cost includes installation of a Level 2 hardwire charging station or NEMA 14-50 outlet to accommodate a Level 2 charging cord, plus labor and materials. You also get a one-year warranty on all electrical work, parts and labor. (Our warranty does not include the charger, which is covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.) Where required by local jurisdiction, the cost of a permit will be added to the installation cost on your final estimate.

Note: You must supply your own wall-mounted charger or Level-2 charging cord UNLESS your installation is being completed through a corporate fleet program. For fleet customers, the charger will be provided by your sponsoring EVSE provider and will be shipped to your home once your installation estimate is approved.

Your Qmerit-certified installer will:

Perform a main panel load calculation to assess available capacity
Create and submit permit documents (as required by local jurisdiction)
Provide and install code-compliant electrical wiring and protective tubing as specified in your quote
Provide and install a new, properly sized breaker in your panel, with GFCI protection if required

Power up your charging unit and test for proper operation

Question 16

What kind of maintenance does an EV charger need?

Accepted Answer

Homeowners can do their own simple inspection of their EV charging stations. They should remove any buildup of dirt and grime and look for any signs of worn cables or loose connections. They should also monitor charging behavior for suspicious drops in charging speed. Many EV charging station installers offer professional maintenance services for a nominal yearly fee. Visit our Blog and learn about EV Charger Maintenance & Best Practices.

Question 17

What is the value of energy storage for utilities and their customers?

Accepted Answer

Energy storage can reduce outages and stabilize the grid by providing a backup power source. It also helps utilities balance supply and demand while reducing customers’ peak electricity costs. Energy storage can also enable customers to use renewables such as solar and wind more widely. Learn how you can transition to renewable energy at home with energy storage.

Question 18

What is the impact on my utility bill when charging an EV at home?

Accepted Answer

The cost of electricity for charging your EV at home will vary depending on the rates assessed by your local utility and how often you charge. For example, in December 2023, the average retail cost of electricity for residential customers in the US was 15.73 cents per kWh. Assuming a widely available 40 kWh battery and a Level 2 charger delivering 7.2 kW at 30-amps, it would take approximately 6 hours (rounded to account for lower efficiency as the battery charges) and 40 kWh to charge the EV. The cost would be approximately $6.29. Multiply this by the number of times you charge per month to calculate how much would be added to an electricity bill. It is always the most economical to charge during off-peak hours.

Question 19

Why do you recommend hardwiring over plug-in wall chargers?

Accepted Answer

Hardwiring a wall charger can prevent nuisance tripping. Most UL-rated Level 2 chargers come equipped with internal ground-fault protection so the breaker in the main panel will shut off (or “trip”) if there is a surge in the system. At the same time, most local electrical inspectors require the use of a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupting (GFCI) breaker when adding a 240-volt circuit for a NEMA 14-50 outlet to accommodate Level 2 plug-in charging. Having two GFCIs on the same circuit can cause nuisance tripping. (Whether you need a GFCI breaker depends on your local city or county permit policy, although Qmerit recommends one for all installations.) Qmerit recommends hardwiring all wall chargers to prevent nuisance tripping; however, our installers can install a plug-in outlet to use with a Level 2 charging cord that may come included with your vehicle, as these do not have the same GFCI requirements.

Question 20

What is the difference between a nanogrid and a traditional home solar system?

Accepted Answer

A nanogrid differs from a traditional home solar system because it includes energy storage, which enables self-consumption and backup power. This allows you to store excess energy generated by the solar system for when it is needed most, or even sell it back to the grid if desired. Learn more about nanogrids.

Question 21

How long does a charging station take to charge an electric car?

Accepted Answer

Most Level 2 chargers deliver a charging range from 6.2 to 19.2 kilowatts, averaging around 7.6 kilowatts. This would provide between 18 and 25 miles of charge per hour and take approximately 8 hours to charge a battery electric vehicle (BEV) fully. Level 1 chargers have much lower power ratings. Supplying an average of 1.3 to 2.4 kilowatts, Level 1 chargers plug into a standard 120-volt AC outlet and provide 3 to 5 miles of EV range per hour.

Question 22

Besides charger level, what other factors affect home charging speed?

Accepted Answer

Four main factors determine your EV battery charging speed:

The battery’s state of charge. The less energized a battery is, the faster it typically charges.
The battery’s temperature. Your EV has technology that regulates charging based on the battery’s temperature and the surrounding ambient temperature. Colder temperatures generally mean slower charging.
Other loads on the battery charger circuit. The more kilowatts drawn on the charging station circuit, the slower the charging speed will be.
Battery deterioration. Batteries lose capacity over time. The more your battery’s capacity deteriorates, the longer it will take to charge.

Question 23

Where is the best place to install an EV charger at home?

Accepted Answer

You can install your EV charging station either inside or outside. Interior installations provide good protection from the elements. Outdoor EV charging stations must be rated for outdoor use. Both locations will need access to the home or building’s electrical service. Learn more about selecting an optimal location for your EV charging station.

Question 24

What is solar integration?

Accepted Answer

Standalone solar panels sometimes generate more power than needed during the day and none at night, as the solar panels require sunlight or solar energy to produce power. When you integrate those solar panels with other energy management tools, you can fully optimize the panels’ power generation. Learn about all the benefits offered by a well-integrated whole-home system.

Question 25

What if I live in a condo/townhome?

Accepted Answer

Before having an EV charging station installed, you must obtain permission from the landlord and/or property manager. Once you secure this approval, a Qmerit-certified installer will visit the site to determine the best way to proceed.

Question 26

What happens if the power goes out?

Accepted Answer

Most short-lived power outages won’t impact your EV. If the power goes out while an EV is charging, most EV charging stations will simply resume charging as soon as the power comes back on. A power outage could impact the timer if you use a timer to control the recharging operation. A long-term power outage could prevent charging entirely. Thankfully, homeowners have some options. For more information you can read our blog about EV Charging, Battery Storage and Bidirectional Charging.

Question 27

What factors are important to consider when planning to switch to solar?

Accepted Answer

When planning to switch to solar, it is crucial to consider the size of your system, the location and orientation of your solar panels, any existing grid connection fees or utility rates, and any local regulations or tax incentives. It is also essential to consider your potential energy usage and the cost of installing a solar system. Learn about the most important things you need to know when exploring your home solar options.

Question 28

What does a smart panel do?

Accepted Answer

A smart panel optimizes your use of energy and the amount you spend on electricity. It shows how much power each circuit is drawing. You can prioritize critical power loads, such as your refrigerator and heating system, and you can program the controls for your convenience (e.g., you can plug your EV in when you arrive home but program the charging system to click on late at night, when utility rates are low).

Question 29

What determines whether my home is suitable for a solar system?

Accepted Answer

Several factors determine whether your home is suitable for a solar system, such as the amount of space on your roof, local weather, and the angle and orientation of your roof. It’s also important to consider the estimated energy requirements of the home to select an appropriately sized solar system.

Question 30

What are the components needed to create a nanogrid at home?

Accepted Answer

To create a nanogrid at home, you need a renewable energy source such as solar panels, a battery energy storage system and a smart panel or energy management system to integrate them. Learn more about powering your home with a solar panel system.

Question 31

What are the best EV charging practices to follow at home?

Accepted Answer

Effective EV charging is about extending battery life. Fully charging or fully depleting the battery can reduce its life expectancy. Limit fast charging because the resulting heat may lead to deterioration and damage over time, and don’t leave the battery fully charged when you store your EV for long periods. Use the 80/20 rule when not taking your EV on long trips, trying not to let the vehicle’s state of charge fall below 20% and stopping the charging process at 80%. This will extend the life of your battery.

For more information read our blog about EV Battery Charging Best Practices.

Question 32

What are the benefits of EV charging at home?

Accepted Answer

EV charging at home allows you to charge your vehicle when it is most convenient. It also provides easy access to charging, with no need to search for a public station or wait in line. Home EV charging may also be cheaper depending on the cost of electricity and any applicable incentives. Learn more about EV charging at home and the process of installing an EV charging station.

Question 33

What are the benefits of a permit?

Accepted Answer

There are many reasons to pull a city permit, including:

Safety and protection – All electrical upgrades must be done properly to void electrical and fire hazard risk. Permitting provides a final inspection process to confirm your upgrade was completed safely and according to electrical code specifications. If additional services are required for code compliance, the city inspector is there to catch it and ensure it is updated right away.
Homeowners insurance – If you ever need to file a claim involving an electrical circuit upgrade, your insurance company will likely require evidence the work was properly permitted.
Warranty – Our industry-leading technology platform enables your Qmerit-certified installer to document installation details that are helpful if your charger needs service or warranty attention in the future.

Question 34

What are the benefits of a nanogrid?

Accepted Answer

Nanogrids reduce exposure to utility power outages and can be used in places not connected to a transmission grid. By going off-grid in part or whole — called grid defection — homeowners with nanogrids can reduce or even eliminate utility payments for electricity. Solar nanogrids also reduce your property’s greenhouse gas footprint, helping combat climate change.

Question 35

What are the advantages of battery energy storage systems?

Accepted Answer

Battery energy storage systems provide a backup power source in case of outages, reduce peak electricity demands, and help stabilize local grids. They also offer cost savings by shifting energy usage to off-peak hours when demand is low and electricity is cheaper. Learn how you can power your home with a battery energy storage system.

Question 36

Is it safe to charge an electric car at home?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can safely charge your EV at home with a Level 1 cable or Level 2 charging station. Certified EV charging station installers should install Level 2 EV charging stations. Learn more about EV charging best practices.

Question 37

How should I prepare at home before an EV charger installation?

Accepted Answer

There are several steps you should take before buying and installing an EV charger:

Before buying a charger, know your EV battery capacity and the type of plug connector your EV has, to ensure the unit will have sufficient power and the correct configuration.
Decide if you want to use a wall-mounted charging station or a portable Level 2 charging cord (which will require professional installation of a 240v NEMA outlet). Also, decide if a smart charger that connects to the Internet and the manufacturer’s mobile app is right for you.
Complete the Qmerit Home Charging Assessment to be connected with a licensed, certified electrician in your area. You will answer a few questions about your home and submit a few pictures to receive an upfront price estimate for installation.

Question 38

How often are you required to charge an EV?

Accepted Answer

EV charging frequency depends on driving patterns, battery size, and charging infrastructure availability, but most EV drivers charge overnight at home. Depending on their EV’s battery range, some drivers may need to charge more frequently. Learn how to charge your EV battery to maintain battery health.

Question 39

How much solar power does a nanogrid produce?

Accepted Answer

A nanogrid is an integrated energy generation, storage, and distribution system for homes and small buildings. With a nanogrid, you can disconnect from utility distribution lines and reconnect when needed. Nanogrids can produce between 3 and 20 kW from rooftop solar panels and store between 15 and 150 kWh of electricity in batteries. Nanogrids can be interconnected to create a microgrid.

Question 40

How much does EV charger installation cost?

Accepted Answer

The installation price for a home EV charger will vary depending on your project requirements, but typically ranges from $799 – $1,999. (That includes a $149 deposit required to schedule installation.) Factors impacting the cost include the length of wiring needed, installation method (hardwire or outlet installation), and location of the installation site in relation to your main electrical panel. In most cases, you will receive an upfront pricing estimate via email based on the responses you submit through our online assessment. If additional information is needed or your project requires electrical upgrades, your Qmerit-certified installer will follow up with you to furnish a custom proposal.

Learn more on our blog Factors That Impact EV Charger Installation Costs.

Question 41

How much does a battery energy storage system cost?

Accepted Answer

The cost of a battery energy storage system depends on factors such as size, capacity and technology, but there may be incentives and tax credits which could reduce the cost. Therefore, speaking to an energy storage specialist to get an accurate cost estimate is important.Learn which incentives are available in your ZIP code or get a pricing estimate.

Question 42

How long will it take to get my EV charger installation done?

Accepted Answer

The time it takes can vary based on a few factors including the length of the permit approval process, delivery of your charging hardware, and your installer’s schedule. Your installer can give you a better sense of the timetable once they review your project and assess the scope of work.

Question 43

How long do solar systems last?

Accepted Answer

Solar systems typically last 25-30 years, but their actual lifespan depends on factors such as quality, maintenance and environmental conditions. Solar panels are quite durable, but their output will decrease as time passes. Over time, the cells within the panel will become less efficient at converting sunlight into energy, resulting in reduced output.

Question 44

How full should I charge my EV?

Accepted Answer

EV batteries are most efficient between 20% and 80% of a full charge. Therefore, EV owners should recharge up to 80% during each charge cycle and avoid depleting the charge below 20%. Charging the battery higher than 80% and/or lower than 20% will age the battery pack faster. Learn more about how to optimize EV battery charging.

Question 45

How easily can I adjust the settings of a smart panel?

Accepted Answer

Smart panels are designed to be user-friendly, making it easy to adjust settings, set timers, and control your home’s electricity usage. You can control the panel from a mobile device or app, allowing you to monitor and adjust settings wherever you are. Learn more about using a smart panel to control and monitor energy usage in your home.

Question 46

How does the EV Charger installation process work?

Accepted Answer

It starts with an online assessment, which asks for information about your home and charging needs and requests a few pictures of your electrical panel and desired charging location. Based on your responses, you will either receive an upfront pricing estimate or one of our certified installers will provide a custom proposal.
Once you pay a fully refundable deposit, your installation project will be assigned to a Qmerit-certified installer, who will review your project within 48 hours.
Your installer will assess the information you provided to confirm your project scope of work, and then email you to confirm your installation estimate and permit costs. Your installer may reach out to you to gather more information, or to schedule a site visit to better evaluate your project scope.
Once you approve your estimate, your installer will contact you to schedule your installation. (The timing will vary depending on the permit process in your local jurisdiction, and scheduling availability.)
Once your installation is completed, we will send you an invoice for final payment, confirmation of your one-year warranty, and a customer satisfaction survey

Question 47

How does a smart panel compare to a traditional one?

Accepted Answer

Smart panels allow you to monitor and manage your home’s electrical load via a smartphone or other mobile device. Using an app, you can turn on and off individual circuits (including to your EV charger), set timers to turn circuits on and off remotely, and prioritize circuits based on the parameters you set. These functions are not possible with traditional panels.

Question 48

How do your prices compare to other EV charger installers?

Accepted Answer

Qmerit provides the highest quality installation services which offer you unsurpassed convenience and peace of mind. Our certified installers are top-rated electricians who are licensed, insured and background-checked, sparing you the hassle of researching and vetting contractors yourself. They meet the highest standards for safety and service quality, and handle all required permitting and inspections, saving you time and ensuring the job is done right. You may be able to find someone to do a cheaper installation, but you could be sacrificing quality or putting yourself at risk if electrical codes are not followed or required inspections are not performed.

Question 49

How do I start the EV charger installation process?

Accepted Answer

Go to our Home Charging Installation page for a quick overview, and click on the “Get Your Estimate Now” button to begin our simple EV Charging Assessment. You’ll answer a few questions about your home, upload a few pictures—and receive an upfront pricing estimate.

Question 50

How do I apply for tax credits to offset my EV charger installation costs?

Accepted Answer

Qmerit recommends reaching out to your tax professional about applying for credits. For more information, you can also visit the “Laws & Incentives” section of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center.

Question 51

How can I reduce the cost of charging an EV at home?

Accepted Answer

There are two main avenues for reducing EV charging costs. For your initial acquisition, the federal government, your state and local governments, and your utility provider may offer tax credits or rebates that lower the cost of buying and installing your charging equipment. For ongoing charging costs, check with your local utility to determine if time-of-day pricing is available. It is typically optimal to charge your EV at night, when demand is low.

Question 52

How can I install energy storage for solar integration?

Accepted Answer

Two ways exist to couple energy storage with an existing rooftop photovoltaic (PV) solar array. AC-coupled systems involve installing a PV inverter to charge the batteries. A direct connection between the PV array and a charge controller or other DC–DC converter is required for DC-coupled systems. DC coupling is more efficient if your home’s electricity load is heavier during the evening and night hours. If your home’s load is higher during daylight hours, an AC system makes sense. This is because it allows solar energy to be used directly, with any excess routed for storage in the batteries.

Question 53

How can I charge two cars at the same time?

Accepted Answer

You must buy a charger with two plugs or install two separate charging stations. Remember that a solution for charging two EVs simultaneously will likely require upgrades to your home’s electrical system. Otherwise, charging two EVs simultaneously could exceed your home’s electric capacity, causing circuits to trip. If you install equipment that can share the same circuit, it may lengthen charging times but eliminate the need for an electrical panel upgrade.

Question 54

How can energy storage save me money?

Accepted Answer

Installing energy-storage technology can save you money by accumulating electricity generated via renewable solar energy, which can be used when the sun is not shining. It can also store electricity from the grid during periods when low-cost time-of-day pricing is in effect, for use during high-cost periods. Speaking with an experienced electrical contractor is advisable to get a better estimate of the specific potential savings available to you.

Question 55

How are Qmerit installers vetted and certified?

Accepted Answer

All electrical contractors in the Qmerit installation network must comply with our stringent certification standards and provide proof of:

Current business licenses
Current electrical licenses
Liability Insurance, Workers Comp Insurance, and Auto Insurance

Rigorous background checks for Qmerit-certified installation electricians include:

Criminal history
Motor vehicle history

Question 56

Does the charging cost at home vary from that at a public station?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Home charging uses the home’s electrical current without additional fees. Some smart EV charging stations can even use electricity at night, which may be cheaper. Public charging, on the other hand, includes electricity and usage fees. That is usually more expensive than home charging.

Question 57

Does installation include a charging station?

Accepted Answer

The standard installation cost does not include the purchase price of a Level 2 charger, which runs about $500 to $800.

When you purchase a new EV, it may come with a charging cord – Level 1 or Level 2. If you want a Level 2 charging station and it is not included with your EV purchase, Qmerit will be happy to assist you with purchasing one.

Question 58

Does fast charging damage the EV battery?

Accepted Answer

Fast charging, also known as DC Fast Charging (DCFC), operates at higher power ratings than Level 1 and Level 2. Compared to Level 2 charging, DCFC subjects EV batteries to high temperatures and resistance. How much depends on several factors, including how thick your charging cables are and whether your EV battery pack is outfitted with a thermal management system. While you may need to fast charge when necessary, avoid frequent fast charging as it reportedly may cause an EV battery to crack, leak, and lose storage capacity over time.

Question 59

Does an EV charger that is installed by a certified electrician increase home value?

Accepted Answer

When selling a house with a charging station, you must show proof that you have a permit for the charger. The jury is out on whether having an EV charger in your home increases its value. One study showed that houses in communities with denser concentrations of EV charging stations were 1.5 times more valuable than homes in other areas. While there is not a precise causal relationship between charger installation and home value at this time, the demand for EVs is projected to grow for decades to come.

Question 60

Does energy storage help power my home if a power outage occurs?

Accepted Answer

Yes, energy storage will help power your home during an outage. The degree to which a storage system can power your entire residence depends on the amount of electricity your home draws and the battery system’s storage capacity. It’s advisable to consult a reliable electrical contractor to understand exactly how much of your home’s electricity draw can be met by a particular storage system.

Question 61

Does a smart panel allow you to manage and monitor circuits individually?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Smart panels can manage and monitor circuits individually, providing visibility and control over energy usage, costs, and performance. This means you can control your home’s electricity usage and prioritize specific circuits over others. You can also set timers or schedules to turn circuits on and off remotely. Learn more on our blog: Is A Smart Panel Right For Your Home?

Question 62

Do I need to pull permits?

Accepted Answer

If permits are required in your city or county, your Qmerit installer will secure them for your convenience. It protects both you and your installer to ensure your project is done to code and reviewed by a local inspector. Electrical upgrades increase your property value, but you will be required to show proof of permits when selling your home. Other installers may not pull permits, putting you in jeopardy in multiple ways. Without proper permitting and inspections, for example, the work performed may be sub-par, violating electrical codes and creating a fire hazard.

Question 63

Do solar panels work in cloudy weather?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Solar panels can still generate power in cloudy weather, although typically at a reduced output depending on the thickness and duration of the cloud cover. Solar panels are most effective in full sun but will still produce some energy even in cloudy conditions. Learn more about powering your home with a solar system paired with energy storage.

Question 64

Do I need to charge my EV up to 100% every time?

Accepted Answer

EV batteries do not need to be charged to 100% every time, and partial charging is recommended for battery health. Depending on the range of your EV, you may only need to charge up to 80% or 90%. This will help avoid battery overcharging and reduce wear and tear on the battery. Visit our blog to learn EV Battery Charging Best Practices to Maintain Your Car’s Battery Health.

Questions about electrification or EV charging?

Most Popular FAQs

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EV Charging Technology

Are EV charging stations universal?

Can you overcharge an EV battery?

Do I need to charge my EV up to 100% every time?

Does fast charging damage the EV battery?

How often are you required to charge an EV?

What’s the difference between Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 (DCFC) EV charging?

How to Charge Your EV at Home

Besides charger level, what other factors affect home charging speed?

Can I install the home charging station myself?

Can I use my existing 240-volt outlet for Level 2 charging?

Can an EV charging station be plugged into a dryer receptacle?

How long does a charging station take to charge an electric car?

How many amps does a home EV charger need?

I have a plug-in hybrid vehicle. Do I need a Level 2 charger?

Is it safe to charge an electric car at home?

What are the benefits of EV charging at home?

Where is the best place to install an EV charger at home?

Which Level 2 EV charger brands should I consider?

Which home EV charger should I buy?

Why do you recommend hardwiring over plug-in wall chargers?

EV Charging

Can I track my energy consumption for each EV charging session?

Can Qmerit install a charger at an apartment or multi-unit property?

Do I need to pull permits?

Does an EV charger that is installed by a certified electrician increase home value?

Does installation include a charging station?

Does the charging cost at home vary from that at a public station?

How are Qmerit installers vetted and certified?

How can I charge two cars at the same time?

How can I reduce the cost of charging an EV at home?

How do I apply for tax credits to offset my EV charger installation costs?

How do I start the EV charger installation process?

How do your prices compare to other EV charger installers?

How does the EV Charger installation process work?

How full should I charge my EV?

How long will it take to get my EV charger installation done?

How much does EV charger installation cost?

How should I prepare at home before an EV charger installation?

What are the benefits of a permit?

What are the best EV charging practices to follow at home?

What happens if the power goes out?

What if I live in a condo/townhome?

What is the impact on my utility bill when charging an EV at home?

What kind of maintenance does an EV charger need?

What’s included in the EV charger installation cost?

Who do I pay for my EV charger installation?

Why do I need to provide a deposit to schedule my EV charger installation?

Will I need a panel upgrade for my EV charger installation?

Would you come to my home to repair my charging station if anything breaks?

Does energy storage help power my home if a power outage occurs?

How can I install energy storage for solar integration?

How can energy storage save me money?

How much does a battery energy storage system cost?

What are the advantages of battery energy storage systems?

What is the value of energy storage for utilities and their customers?

Why should I use energy storage instead of solely solar panels?

Am I immune from power outages if I go solar?

Do solar panels work in cloudy weather?

How long do solar systems last?

How much solar power does a nanogrid produce?

What are the benefits of a nanogrid?

What determines whether my home is suitable for a solar system?

What factors are important to consider when planning to switch to solar?

What is solar integration?

Why should I use solar integration?

Will solar integration work with my existing solar panels?

Can I use this with an Android or iOS device?

Can smart panels lower my energy costs?

Does a smart panel allow you to manage and monitor circuits individually?

How does a smart panel compare to a traditional one?

How easily can I adjust the settings of a smart panel?

What does a smart panel do?

Can Qmerit install a charger at an apartment or multi-unit property?

Do I need to pull permits?

Does installation include a charging station?

How are Qmerit installers vetted and certified?