Level 2 Charging Question

7195 Views 38 Replies 19 Participants Last post by wassct, Nov 17, 2018

wassct

Discussion Starter · Nov 3, 2018

I'm sorry if this has been asked before but I'm a bit confused. I have a 2018 Volt Premier and I'm looking to install level 2 charging at my house. I have a couple of questions because I read that I should have a 40amp breaker in the panel and I thought I could use a 30amp for the Volt. I'm also interested in being prepared for the future as much as possible without having to run a new line.

(1) Can I get away with this? Install a 30amp breaker in the panel with a 30amp line run to garage into a 240v 30amp outlet?

(2)Am I better off running 40amp or 50amp line from the breaker to the garage with the 30amp breaker and outlet (or do I need a 40amp breaker and outlet?)?

I have gotten some quotes and the higher amp line run is obviously more expensive so wondering your thoughts if I want to keep cost reasonable but also future proof. One of the electricians mentioned that he believes the amp ratings will come down in the future anyway, is this true?

Thanks for your help for a new and slightly confused Volt owner!

Save

1 - 2 of 39 Posts

Steverino

· #8 · Nov 3, 2018

A 15A EVSE needs a 20A breaker, never higher than that, and not lower. Do not use a 30A or 40A or 50A breaker on a line feeding a 15A EVSE. The breaker is there to trip and turn off the juice should the EVSE malfunction and start drawing more current than it should. A 30A breaker for a 15A EVSE could allow a malfunctioning EVSE to overheat and potentially start on fire.

The wire size for the circuit can be heavier duty (future proofing) than needed for a 20A line, but the breaker must be right-sized to the device plugged in at the other end. The EVSE manufacturer's install manual will specify the breaker size needed for their device. Use that, not a larger amp breaker.

Save

Reactions: 1

Steverino

· #13 · Nov 3, 2018

wassct said:
Thanks! Appreciate all the helpful repsonses!Exactly what I needed to know! Now I just need to pick a charger! Any recommendations on lower cost unit?

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk

I understand wanting lower cost on something. But when that something is a device charging a car with a constant high draw and will likely be use daily, I want high quality first. I balance cost against how much is your car and house are worth in case something goes wrong. Why risk an electrical fire to save a few dollars? Now, the breaker should help prevent that worst case scenario, but stuff happens.

Clipper Creek or Siemens would be my recommendations.

Save

1 - 2 of 39 Posts

This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.

Top Contributors this Month