frequently asked questions

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If you have recently switched to an electric vehicle, the process of charging your vehicle is likely new to you.  Your vehicle comes with a level 1 charger that plugs into a standard 120-volt outlet so you can charge your vehicle at home.  However, these chargers can take over 24 hours to provide a full charge.  EV owners also have the option of installing a level 2 charger in their homes that plugs into a 220-volt outlet and can provide a full charge overnight.

If you are new to electric vehicle ownership and the process of charging your vehicle, these frequently asked questions may provide you with helpful answers.  You can talk to our electricians at Nu-Trend if you are interested in having a level 2 charging station installed in your home.

Level 1 chargers that come with your vehicle can be used by simply plugging them into a regular outlet and plugging it into your vehicle.  Level 2 chargers are mounted on indoor or outdoor walls and integrated into the electrical system of the home.  You can plug the charger into your vehicle and disconnect when done charging.

You can charge your vehicle conveniently at home within your schedule.  Level 2 chargers allow for reliable charging overnight.

People who own electric vehicles do most of their charging at home and while the level 1 chargers that come with electric vehicles can provide home charging, they only add about 3-5 miles per charging hour and can take more than 24 hours for a full charge.

Having a level 2 charger installed will allow you to charge your electric vehicle faster and can often provide a full charge overnight.

The answer to this depends on the size of the car battery and the type of charger used.  A level 1 charger adds 3-5 miles per hour and can take over 24 hours for a full charge while a level 2 charger adds around 17 miles per hour of charging and can provide a full charge between 4 and 10 hours.

You may have to ask the property management and get approval to have an EV charger installed within the complex.

Yes, the plug on level 2 chargers is universal for electric vehicles, except Teslas which require an adaptor to use a standard level 2 charger.

Yes, home EV chargers are certified by Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL) just like other electric appliances.

There are WIFI enabled EV charging stations that may have additional features and offer incentives for using these types of chargers.  You can choose a WIFI enabled charger if you like the additional incentives it offers.

EV chargers come with different wall plugs that may differ in charging speed.  Make sure you choose an EV charger that has the right type of plug for the outlet in your home.  If you want to hardwire your EV charger, talk to our electricians about the installation.

The cost of installing a level 2 charger will vary depending on whether or not a new electrical outlet or electrical circuit needs to be installed and whether or not the chargers are hardwired.  An easy installation that requires installing a 240-volt outlet may cost around $500, installations requiring an outlet and a new 40-50A electrical circuit may cost around $1000, and installing a hardwired charger or a charger in a home with an old electrical system that requires a new electrical circuit of 100A can cost $2000 or more.

This depends on your jurisdiction.  If a permit is needed, our electricians at Nu-Trend can secure the proper permits.

You can reach out to your electric utility provider to learn more about their electricity rates that may save you money when charging your electric vehicle.

Yes, our electricians at Nu-Trend are certified to install level 2 and level 3 EV chargers for homes and businesses. You can rely on our team to deliver high-quality installation services and consistent maintenance as needed.

Whether or not homeowners need to obtain a permit for home EV charging is determined by the level of charging required. Charging stations are categorized into three levels. Permits are not required for the Level 1 charging station. The Level 2 charger is preferred by many as it offers faster charging compared to the Level 1 charger. The device operates on a 240V line instead of a 120V line. Therefore, a permit is needed as it requires a new line installation for the higher circuit. The Level 3 charger is a commonly found charging option at public charging stations. For more information, read the full article: Is A Permit Needed To Install an EV Charger?

Professional electricians are required for the installation of an EV charger. Nu-Trend has a team of installation electricians who specialize in making the process easy for EV owners. Before installing a Level 2 charger, we inspect your home’s electrical system to ensure it is compatible with the required voltage. Modifications are carried out as needed to fit the charger. We will handle the installation process efficiently from beginning to end. You can reach us anytime for consultation or electric car charger installation services at (847) 882-1888.

The cost of EV charging installation varies based on the level of charging needed.

  1. The cost of a Level 1 charger ranges from $300 to $600 for the equipment, with labor costs varying from $300 to $1,000.

  2. A Level 2 charger provides a faster charge rate, delivering about 60 miles per hour of charging. The cost of the equipment varies between $500 and $800. Costs for installation, labor, and miscellaneous fees begin at $1,200 and may vary based on various factors.

  3. Installing a Level 3 charger for your business necessitates obtaining special permits and a complete electrical circuit upgrade. This EV charger is the most expensive option available. The cost of Level 3 charger equipment ranges between $20,000 and $50,000. Labor fees may reach up to $50,000.

For more information, read the full article: EV Charger Installation Cost

Electric vehicles can safely charge in all weather conditions. All equipment, including cables, chargers, and charging points, has been waterproofed and thoroughly tested. 

You can charge an Electric Car with a generator. However, backup batteries or generators will not be enough to meet daily charging requirements. Regular access to one of the three charging levels is necessary to keep your vehicle prepared for the road.

Based on Tesla, “Non-Tesla Supercharging is only accessible for CCS-enabled vehicles. If a Supercharger post has two cables or an installed adapter, non-Tesla cars can only charge with the CCS connector. Tesla is unable to accommodate vehicles that do not fully comply with CCS communication and safety protocols.”

Level 1: 30-40 hours (Full Charge)

Level 2: 4-10 hours (Full Charge)

Level 3: 30-40 minutes

Most residents do not have access to a 240-volt outlet. For optimal safety and efficiency, it is recommended to have a qualified and experienced professional install the new line for the higher circuit.

Not any electricians are qualified to install an EV charger. At Nu-Trend EV and Electrical Services, our electricians are certified to install level 2 and level 3 chargers for various electric vehicles, ensuring reliable charging.

The federal EV tax credit provides up to $7,500 in tax incentives for buyers of qualifying electric vehicles (EVs). The credit is intended to address climate change and healthcare, and its regulations have been tightened in 2024. The prices of electric vehicles are projected to decrease, making them more accessible by 2025. The amount of credit available is determined by factors such as the vehicle’s origin, battery components, sticker price, and the buyer’s income. Buyers have the option to claim the credit on their tax return or receive it at the dealership. Please be aware that income requirements and eligibility criteria must be met. To learn more, read the full article: How to claim the EV tax credit?

EV charging station installation

We can install EV charging stations at homes and businesses.

EV charging at home

We can install Level 3 EV charging stations for fast charging at homes as well as Level 2 EV charging stations for overnight charging.

Electrical panel upgrade

Upgrading your electrical panel can improve the safety and efficiency of your electrical system.

Backup generators

We can install backup generators for a reliable backup source of power.

Solar panels

We can provide complete installation of solar panels that includes placement, wiring, and grid integration.

Electrical wiring

We can repair or upgrade the electrical wiring in your home or building for safer, more dependable wiring.

5-star-rating

Vil Varadhan

Nu-Trend did a professional installation job for my EV Charger at home. The technician was thorough and put safety first. Although, it was not cheap – The quality of work gives a peace of mind. They took care of City permit etc.

5-star-rating

Kevin Gallagher

Updated panel from 100 to 200 A and installed EV charger. Team was very professional. Shane was responsive and ushered through the permit. Dave and Jr did a clean install and were respectful in my home. Would consider them for future electrical work.

5-star-rating

Martin Gardner

We had Nu-Trend add an EV charging port to our garage which was organized via Qmert, who contracted Nu-Trend to do the installation. I first met Dave, who came out to inspect the job site and put together a quotation; he is an excellent, Knowledgeable, and professional electrician. Shane at Nu-Trend took care of all the paperwork which includes a work permit from the local council and inspection after installation. Dave and a co-worker who was also excellent came to the house and did the installation in about half a day, the quality of the workmanship was impeccable. The work passed Inspection with flying colors.

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1210 Remington Road, Schaumburg, Illinois 60173, United States Nu-Trend EV and Electrical Services Location