The location of an EV charger is very significant when it will be installed in the garage, since an inappropriate location can hamper its functionality or even make it a safety hazard. If you are wondering about the best location for an EV charger in your garage, this article aims to point out some important considerations to keep in mind before installation. We’ll discuss some important factors to take into consideration, in an effort to help you find the best place to install your EV charger, and share some helpful tips on things you can do to help your EV charger run smoothly after you install it.

Where Is the Best Place to Put an EV Charger?

There are some things to keep in mind when thinking of where to locate the EV charger other than just “somewhere on an empty wall.” Here are the most significant of these considerations:

1. Distance from Electrical Panel

The closer the EV charger will be to the electrical panel in your house, the easier and less expensive it will be to install the charger. The shorter the distance from the charger to the electrical panel, the less wiring will also be needed, and installation will be simpler. Speak to a licensed electrician for more concrete advice about proper positioning.

2. Distance from Charger to Vehicle

You will want the charger to be located within reach of the charging cable, which should easily make it to the charging port on your EV. Most EV charging stations use cables which are from 12 to 25 feet long. So keep the distance from your EV charger to the EV’s charging port no more than the length of the cable that’s coming with the charging station. Overly stretched cables can be damaged and create tripping hazards. Even if you have multiple EVs, make sure the charging station/cable will work with all of them, as not all EVs have the same charging port style.

3. Convenience & Accessibility

Keep your charger in a location that’s convenient to plug your EV into the charger. If you will enter your garage from an inner door most of the time, keep your charger close by for easy plugging and unplugging. Avoid hidden, cramped spots that will be inconvenient.

4. Wall Space and Mounting

Don’t have your charger hang against a vulnerable wall full of decorations that could be knocked off on impact. Choose a sturdy wall for your EV charger. About 4 feet off the ground seems good to keep it out of the way of small children and pets when mounted close to the ground.

5. Orientation of Parking

Make sure the EV is parked head-on or backed into the garage from the side that’s the same as the side of the car with the charging port.

6. Ventilation

Install the charger in a location that has good ventilation so it dissipates its heat adequately and doesn’t overheat or blow fuses—especially in garages which can trap heat.

Installing an EV Charger in Your Garage

Once you’ve selected an ideal spot, these steps ensure the rest of your installation is trouble-free:

1. Check code compliance: Make sure your installation meets any local building codes, and whether a permit will be required.
2. Hire a pro: You will want to hire a licensed electrician for installation. Many make their living performing EV charger installations, so there shouldn’t be a shortage available.
3. Install a dedicated 240V circuit: Make sure your new Level 2 charger is plugged into a dedicated single 240-volt circuit. Check your electrical panel to make sure it is able to handle this additional draw.
4. Mount the charger: Hang and secure the unit in a location it will be easy to access and at least four feet off the floor.
5. Test it: Before plugging it in, power it up and make sure it is working properly.

Tips for Optimizing Your Garage for EV Charging

• Use cable organizers: Keep the charging cables from getting tangled and reduce the chance of an accident.
• Add lighting: Brighten up your garage. Plugging in at night is safer and easier with proper lighting.
• Plan for the future: You might buy several EVs down the road. Make sure your electrical system can handle turning them all on for a charge.

FAQ: Common Questions About EV Chargers

Where is the best place to put a charger for an EV in a garage?

The best place for placing a charger in a garage for an EV is close to your electrical panel (to keep costs down), in a well-ventilated area, and in easy reach of where you’ll be parking your car.

What height should I mount my EV charger?

Mount your EV charger about four feet off the floor of the garage. This height is good for most adults to leave unplugged, and falls above the reach of small kids and pets.

Do I need a permit for an EV charger?

Permit requirements vary, so check on this with local authorities, or a licensed electrician will be able to tell you.

Can you charge two EVs with one charging station?

If the charging cable is long enough to reach both, sure. If you want them charging at the same time, you’ll want a dual-port type of charger.

What length are EV chargers?

The charging cable on an EV charger is usually 12-25 feet long. Make sure you pick a model with a long enough cable to reach the charging port in your vehicle. Your car might have several different places it can plug in.

Picking the best location for your EV charger in your garage helps ensure trouble-free operation for years to come. Proximity to your electrical panel, reach of the charging cable, and ease of plugging in your vehicle are all things to consider in choosing an ideal installation spot. Use a licensed electrician to help you select a professional unit and install it for you, and you can enjoy the convenience of plugging in at home.