Categories Commercial, Residential

EV Chargers: Types, Specifications, and Installation Considerations

With the rapid growth in electric vehicle (EV) adoption, understanding the different types of EV chargers and their installation requirements has become increasingly important. Choosing the right EV charger not only affects your charging speed but also impacts your overall driving experience and home electrical setup. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various types of EV chargers, their specifications, power differences, and key considerations for installation to help you make an informed decision.

Types of EV Chargers

Level 1 Chargers

Specifications:
Level 1 chargers are the most basic type of EV charger, operating on a standard 120V household outlet. They typically deliver around 1.4 kW of power, which translates to about 4-5 miles of range per hour of charging.

Electrical Requirements:
Level 1 chargers can be plugged directly into a standard household outlet, making them the most accessible and cost-effective option for EV owners. They usually do not require any additional electrical work, making them ideal for those who drive shorter distances daily.

Best Use Cases:
Level 1 chargers are best suited for overnight charging at home, especially for EV owners who drive less than 40 miles per day. They are also a good fit for those who may have limited access to higher-level charging infrastructure.

Level 2 Chargers

Specifications:
Level 2 chargers are a step up from Level 1, operating on a 240V circuit. They offer power output ranging from 3 kW to 19 kW, allowing them to provide 15-30 miles of range per hour of charging.

Electrical Requirements:
Installing a Level 2 charger typically requires a dedicated 240V circuit, which may necessitate electrical upgrades, such as a new circuit breaker or even a panel upgrade. This type of installation should be carried out by a licensed electrician to ensure safety and compliance with local codes.

Best Use Cases:
Level 2 chargers are ideal for daily drivers who need a quicker charging solution. They are commonly installed in homes, workplaces, and public charging stations, providing a faster and more efficient way to recharge EVs.

DC Fast Chargers (Level 3)

Specifications:
DC Fast Chargers, also known as Level 3 chargers, are the most powerful EV charging option available. They operate on high-voltage systems (400V to 900V) and can deliver between 50 kW and 350 kW of power. This allows them to charge an EV battery to 80% in just 20-30 minutes.

Electrical Requirements:
Due to their high power demands, DC Fast Chargers require robust electrical infrastructure, including commercial-grade equipment and installation. They are typically found in public charging networks, fleet operations, and along highways for long-distance travel.

Best Use Cases:
DC Fast Chargers are best suited for public charging networks, commercial fleets, and situations where rapid charging is essential, such as during long road trips. They are not typically installed in residential settings due to their cost and power requirements.

Charging Time Overview

The time it takes to charge an EV depends largely on the type of charger used. Level 1 chargers are the slowest, providing only 4-5 miles of range per hour, making them suitable for overnight charging. Level 2 chargers offer a significant improvement, with 15-30 miles of range per hour, allowing most EVs to be fully charged in a few hours. DC Fast Chargers, on the other hand, can provide up to 80% charge in just 20-30 minutes, making them the fastest option available.

Electrical Requirements for EV Charger Installation

Home Electrical Panel Considerations

Before installing an EV charger, it’s crucial to assess your home’s electrical panel. Level 1 chargers can typically be installed without any modifications, but Level 2 chargers require a dedicated 240V circuit, which may necessitate a panel upgrade if your existing panel doesn’t have sufficient capacity. A licensed electrician can evaluate your panel and determine if upgrades are needed.

Circuit Requirements

Each type of charger has specific amperage requirements. Level 1 chargers usually operate on a 15-20 amp circuit, while Level 2 chargers may require anywhere from 20 to 60 amps, depending on the model. Installing a dedicated circuit for your EV charger is essential to prevent overloading your electrical system and ensure safe and efficient operation.

Installation Considerations for EV Chargers

Distance from Electrical Panel

Impact on Installation Costs:
The distance between your electrical panel and the location of the EV charger can significantly affect installation costs. The longer the distance, the more wiring and conduit are required, which can increase both material and labor costs. In some cases, trenching or conduit work may be needed if the charger is installed outdoors or in a detached garage.

Safety and Efficiency Considerations:
To minimize voltage drop and ensure efficient charging, it’s advisable to install the charger as close to the electrical panel as possible. Keeping the charger close to the panel also helps to comply with local electrical codes and reduces the risk of potential hazards, as well as keep the overall cost of installation much lower.

Outdoor vs. Indoor Installation

Weatherproofing and Durability:
When installing an EV charger outdoors, it’s essential to choose a unit that is weatherproof and rated for outdoor use. Look for chargers with a high IP (Ingress Protection) rating, which indicates their ability to withstand dust, water, and other environmental factors.

Convenience and Accessibility:
The placement of your EV charger should also consider convenience and accessibility. Outdoor installations may offer easier access for charging multiple vehicles or accommodating guests, while indoor installations provide protection from the elements and potential theft.

Future-Proofing Your Installation

Preparing for Higher Power Chargers:
As EV technology advances, future vehicles may require higher power chargers. To future-proof your installation, consider installing conduit and wiring that can handle higher power levels, even if you start with a Level 2 charger. This will make it easier to upgrade to a more powerful charger down the line without needing extensive electrical work.

Considering Multiple EVs:
If you plan to own multiple EVs or anticipate future needs, it’s wise to plan for the installation of multiple chargers or a dual-port charger. This can save time and money in the long run, ensuring that your home is equipped to handle increased charging demands.

Cost Breakdown of EV Charger Installation

Equipment Costs

The cost of EV chargers varies depending on the type and features. Level 1 chargers are the most affordable, often included with the purchase of the vehicle. Level 2 chargers range from $300 to $1,200, depending on the model and features like smart connectivity or Wi-Fi control. DC Fast Chargers are significantly more expensive, often costing $10,000 or more, and are typically used in commercial settings.

Installation Costs

Installation costs can vary widely based on several factors, including the type of charger, the need for electrical upgrades, and the distance from the electrical panel. It’s important to consider permit fees, potential panel upgrades, and any additional work like trenching when budgeting for the installation. Turn It On Electric requires a technician to get onsite in order to provide a quote for this.

Choosing and installing an EV charger is a crucial step in your journey as an electric vehicle owner. By understanding the different types of chargers, their power outputs, and the electrical requirements, you can make an informed decision that meets your needs both now and in the future. At Turn It On Electric, we’re here to help you every step of the way, from selecting the right charger to ensuring a safe and cost-effective installation. Contact us today to learn more about our EV charger installation services and take the next step toward a sustainable future.

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Author Ashten
Categories Commercial, Lighting, Residential

The Transformative Power of Proper Lighting in Residential and Commercial Spaces

Here at Turn It On Electric, we understand the importance of lighting in our day-to-day lives, though it’s a key element that often gets overlooked. Not only is proper illumination necessary to operate safely and efficiently, but it can also be vital in setting the tone, atmosphere, and environment of a space.

Just imagine, you’re walking down a long and empty corridor. The corridor is dark, sparsely lit by only a few can lights, and the shadows stretch long and menacingly towards you. The wall-to-floor windows that line the walkway are blackened mirrors, reflecting only the outer night sky and your darkened figure in their panes. Spooky, right? Now, imagine the same space again, though this time brightly lit, the walkway bathed in a warm and inviting luminance. Now, your gaze can take in the décor, the space’s carefully crafted and designed layout reflecting brightly in the window panes. Outside, complimenting landscape lights shining on carefully manicured shrubs. It’s a stark comparison to make, but accurate. Let’s delve deeper into the importance of lighting.

Why Lighting Matters More Than You Think

Lighting isn’t just about making sure you can see where you’re going—it’s about creating a space that feels comfortable, functional, and alive. Whether it’s the warm glow in your living room that makes it the perfect place to relax, or the bright, focused light in your kitchen that helps you chop vegetables safely, lighting plays a critical role in how we experience our surroundings.

Beyond just visibility, lighting affects our mood, productivity, and even our health. Dim, poorly lit spaces can feel depressing and make us sluggish, while bright, well-lit areas can energize us and make tasks easier to complete. In commercial environments, this becomes even more critical—poor lighting can hinder employee performance, reduce safety, and make spaces feel less inviting.

Residential Lighting: Setting the Right Mood

In our homes, lighting is one of the most powerful tools we have to set the mood and create a welcoming atmosphere. The right lighting can turn a dull room into a cozy retreat, or make a small space feel open and airy. For instance, soft, warm lights are perfect for creating a relaxing ambiance in a bedroom or living room, while bright, white lights are ideal for kitchens and bathrooms where clarity and cleanliness are key.

Think about the way lighting affects your daily routine—whether it’s the gentle glow of a bedside lamp helping you unwind at night, or the morning sunlight streaming through the kitchen window as you brew your first cup of coffee. Each light source plays a role in shaping your experience of home.

The Importance of Good Lighting in Commercial Spaces

Lighting in commercial spaces isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating an environment where work can be done efficiently and safely. Poor lighting can lead to a host of issues, from reduced productivity to increased safety hazards. Imagine trying to perform intricate tasks or operate machinery in a dimly lit environment; it’s not just inconvenient, it’s dangerous.

Moreover, lighting influences the mood and morale of employees. A poorly lit office or workspace can make the environment feel drab and uninspiring, which can negatively impact employee motivation and overall well-being. On the other hand, well-lit spaces can foster a positive atmosphere, making employees feel more energized and engaged in their work.

The Initial State: A Dim and Dull Workspace

Take, for instance, the case of a commercial property that recently came to us for a lighting renovation. The workspace, as shown in the before photo, was dim and dull, with insufficient lighting that left many areas poorly illuminated.

The Process

When Turn It On Electric was called in, we knew this space needed a lighting overhaul. We carefully assessed the workspace, taking into account the types of tasks being performed and the areas that needed better illumination. Our team installed a number of bright overhead lights, ensuring that every corner of the space was well-lit. See below the after photo.

The Impact: A Bright and Productive Environment

The transformation was immediate and dramatic. The after photo shows a workspace that is bright and welcoming. Employees could now see and clean areas that had previously been in shadow and hidden. More importantly, the overall mood in the office shifted—employees reported feeling more positive and having a new sense of camaraderie in the newly illuminated space. It was clear that the improved lighting had a profound effect, not just on the physical environment, but on the people working within it.

How to Know If Your Space Needs a Lighting Upgrade

If you’re wondering whether your home or business could benefit from better lighting, there are a few signs to look out for. Are there areas in your space that always seem dark or shadowy? Do you find it hard to focus or feel motivated in certain rooms? Have your utility bills been higher than expected? If you answered yes to any of these questions, it might be time to consider a lighting upgrade.

Upgrading your lighting can lead to numerous benefits, from improved visibility and safety to increased energy efficiency and a more pleasant atmosphere. Whether it’s installing brighter lights in your office or adding a few extra lamps to your living room, the right lighting can make all the difference.

Choosing the Right Lighting: What to Consider

When it comes to selecting the right lighting for your space, there are a few key factors to consider. First, think about the purpose of the room. Is it a place where you need bright, focused light for tasks, like a kitchen or an office? Or is it a space where you want to create a relaxing, cozy atmosphere, like a bedroom or living room? The type of lighting you choose should match the function of the space.

Next, consider energy efficiency. Modern LED lights are not only brighter but also consume less energy, making them a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice. Not only do energy-efficient lights last longer, but they also emit less heat, which can help reduce cooling costs in the warmer months. Finally, think about the design and placement of your lighting. The right fixtures and placement can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your space while providing the illumination you need.

How Turn It On Electric Can Help

At Turn It On Electric, we specialize in helping both residential and commercial clients achieve the perfect lighting for their spaces. Whether you’re looking to brighten up your home or overhaul the lighting in your office, our team of experts is here to guide you every step of the way. From consultation to installation, we ensure that your lighting is not only functional and efficient but also beautifully designed to enhance your environment.

Good lighting has the power to transform any space, making it more functional, inviting, and energy-efficient. Whether you’re dealing with dim lighting in your home or a commercial space that needs a brighter environment, Turn It On Electric is here to help. Let us bring our expertise to your lighting project, and experience the difference that proper lighting can make. Give us a call today!

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Author Ashten
Categories Commercial, Electrical Wiring, Electrician, Residential, Safety

4 Common Electrical Emergencies

Electrical Emergencies

Life in the United States is better than most people realize. For example, we’ve never suffered a (global) record-breaking electrical emergency. Electrical emergencies have affected hundreds of millions of people in several countries, but our worst was for two weeks in August 2003.

The Northeast Blackout of 2003 affected 50 million people in Canada and the U.S. The Texas 2021 power crisis may have caused between 246-702 deaths.

Electrical Emergencies and What To Do

1. Electrical Fires

Sixty-five percent of deaths due to electrical fires in homes are caused by having nonworking or no smoke detectors. Electrical fires can be caused by:

  • Arcing faults
  • Electrical distribution systems
  • Electrical receptacles

You can prevent or at least minimize the risks of electrical fires:

  • Create a family evacuation plan and practice it.
  • Get a professional home electrical inspection and follow recommendations for improved safety. Ask if AFCI protection is needed.
  • Heed warning signs of electrical problems:
    • Dim/flickering lights
    • Repeated circuit breaker tripping
    • Sizzling sounds
  • If a light fixture recommends a particular wattage, adhere to that recommendation.
  • Install and regularly inspect your home’s smoke detectors.
  • Never use extension cords as an electrical solution (and don’t use them at all with air conditioners or heaters).
  • Stop overloading outlets. Ask your local electrician about installing additional circuits or outlets.

2. Electrical Shocks

If someone in your home has been electrocuted, turn off the power supply immediately and call 911. After the power supply has been disconnected, unplug appliances that were part of the electrocution.

  • If the person is still holding the live wire, you can try to knock the wire away with a non-metal object (baseball bat, broom, etc.)
  • Otherwise, don’t touch the person that was shocked/electrocuted. Stay calm and distanced.

3. Fallen Power Lines

Fallen power lines in your area can cause electrical emergencies. If you’re near one:

  • Contact your local energy provider immediately.
  • Don’t touch anything the line is touching, including trees.
  • Stay 40´ away from the downed power line.

4. Power Outages

Power outages are probably the most common electrical emergencies in the U.S. The leading cause of power outages is bad weather. Storms that include high winds, ice, and snow have caused widespread power outages.

Other reasons your community or neighborhood may lose power include:

  • Animals – Rodents, snakes, squirrels, and small animals can cause short circuits.
  • Demand – As homes get smarter and electronics get larger (see: EVs), we’ll see more high-demand power outages. Extreme heatwaves cold spells lead to higher power demand. Overworked electric cables, transformers, and other electrical components fail.
  • Earthquakes – We get minor ’quakes every 5 years or so. The 1887 Sonora Earthquake was our worst. At that time, it is assumed no homes in rural Arizona had electricity. (The Phoenix Light and Fuel Company was formed in 1884.)
  • Excavations – Some say the “Call 811” campaign was a failure but it educated everyone to “call before you dig.” Even professional excavators sometimes hit underground electrical cables.
  • Lightning – This happens more often than we realize. Over $825 million was paid on more than 100,000 lightning claims in 2016.
  • Trees – High winds and untrained tree-trimmers can cause tree limbs to connect with power lines and cause interruptions.
  • Vehicles – Car crashes into utility poles are another source of area-wide power outages.

When the power shuts off in your home, first check the circuit breaker. Then check with your neighbors and contact your local power supply company. Some homeowners unplug major appliances and computers and even the main power source at the circuit breaker. When power is restored, turn everything back on.

Turn It On Electric is the 24-hour electrician in the Valley. If you have a home or office electrical emergency that is not power-company related, we’re here for you. Contact TIO Electric.

Author Chad
Categories Commercial, Electrician, Residential

Finding the best electrician in Phoenix

Finding the best electrician in Phoenix

No matter where you live, any service provider you seek should have certain qualities. Integrity, a history of ethical business practices, and reasonable prices are some of the characteristics you look for in a service company. For closer-to-home professional help, you want service providers that participate in business-to-business (B2B) support and give-back to the community.

In Arizona, we have many electrical service providers. What if you want to go beyond average? How do you find the best electrician in Phoenix?

Professional Qualifications of the Best Electrician in Your South-Central Arizona Community

On a basic level, the best electrician will be:

  • Licensed
  • Bonded
  • Insured

But even at a basic level, that means a lot.

Licensed, Professional Electricians

Many of us check Yelp reviews and online testimonials. But how many of us check professional licensing, especially during an emergency? (Yelp verifies electrician licenses with one click.) This is exactly the reason you should research the best Phoenix electrician at your leisure.

To check a company’s license, go to the Arizona Registrar of Contractors and search for the company by name. This is important because licensed electricians:

What Is a Bonded Electrician?

When you partner with your local, bonded electrician, you are assured that if something goes wrong, your electrician can make it right. Guaranteed. Bonding means the contractor has made an investment – paid a premium – to protect you. Be sure to ask for the name of the bonding company.

The Best Electrician Carries The Best Insurance

Any time you allow someone on your property, you put yourself at risk. You can be held responsible if there are any accidents to others while in your home. And you also accept the responsibility that someone on your property could cause damages to your property and possessions.

In Arizona, your licensed electrician must show proof of electrical contractor insurance. Insurance can include:

  • BOP – Business owners policy is another type of insurance that can cover property/loss of income
  • Liability – Broad, general coverage for the electrical business
  • Workers’ compensation – Coverage for employee’s medical expenses and loss of income

The Best Electrician in Phoenix? Turn It On Electric

The best electrician has a passion for excellence without compromise. Other companies are contented to survive in a volatile economic climate. Turn It On Electric chooses company growth through superior quality of service and customer care. Our electrical professionals will always care about your safety first.

TIO Electric holds a specialty Dual CR-11 license in Arizona. We have an active bond with RLI Insurance Company. 

Turn It On Electric is the best electrician in The Valley. Allow us to prove it: Call or contact Turn It On Electric to learn more.

Author Chad
Categories Commercial, Lighting, Outdoor, Residential

Phoenix landscape lighting installation

Phoenix landscape lighting installation

Landscape lighting offers the best of three worlds. Most of us add landscape lighting to enhance appearance. The security that comes with landscape lighting is a huge benefit. When you line sidewalks and paths, it becomes a safety feature. Phoenix landscape lighting 2022 trends include low-voltage options for every residential and commercial property.

2022 Phoenix Landscape Lighting Trends

Arizona is a “destination” state for so many people. Phoenix has year-round beauty and comfortable weather almost every day. We spend a lot of time outdoors. That’s why landscape lighting is a must for most Arizona property owners.

You don’t want less-than-safe yard lights. Proper landscape light fixtures will resist moisture without overheating.

This year in particular has been one of rebuilding and renewed hope. What better way to celebrate than by opening our hearts and homes to friends and family? Here are six 2022 Phoenix landscape lighting ideas that will brighten your life in 2022:

1. Deck Lighting

The versatility of deck light fixtures and lighting options is amazing. Choose from:

  • Deck – Attach these to posts or rails.
  • Downlights – These are placed overhead, maybe in trees to spotlight an area.
  • Recessed – You can use these for dramatic floor lights (ceilings too).
  • Spot/well/uplights – These highlight one feature, like a tree or waterfall.
  • Step – Step lights are valuable walking aids, and they look terrific. You can use surface mounted or recessed.

2. Energy-Efficient

Low-voltage and long-lasting LED lights can last up to 100,000 hours or longer. As always, the upfront cost may cause you to take a step back. But the investment pays off; you’ll get returns in longevity and monthly energy bill savings.

3. Entertainment

Entertainment lights are bolder; brighter than path lighting. Path lights accentuate footfall. Entertainment lighting is placed further away from seating scenarios and aimed to illuminate a larger space.

4. Path Lighting

No one wants to stumble and/or fall. Your need to protect older and younger loved ones never change. And traditional path lighting will never go out of style.

5. Timeless Sustainability

You can choose from designs that won’t date your property. Timeless landscape lighting designs are tasteful features. But choose materials that have longer-lasting durability too. Consider brass, copper-free aluminum, and corrosion-resistant metal fixtures.

6. Tree Lights

No need to wait for winter wonderlands in December! If they’re wonderful in December, why not have that beauty and excitement all year? Tree lighting can also be adjustable for low-lighting or moonlighting.

Solar vs. Electric Phoenix Landscape Lighting

Solar is another landscape lighting trend. It has several advantages: It’s cheaper and low maintenance. Your Phoenix-area electrician appreciates how easily and quickly solar landscape lights can be installed. But…

  • Solar landscape lights won’t last as long. You’ll need to replace the lights about every 3 years.
  • The light color tends to be pinkish. Some people are delighted with that. Some people find it off-putting.
  • You have no control over brightness and on-off settings. When they’re on, they’re on. When they’re bright or dim, it is what it is.
  • Your illumination is compromised if you have several cloudy days. In fact, when it’s cloudy and dark and you need outdoor lighting most, solar lights may fail.

Hardwired-electrical outdoor lighting is a better investment for your home (and your wallet). A professional electrical landscape light installation will provide the safest possible placement.

  • Electric landscape lighting lasts about 10 years or more.
  • They work during bad weather and cloudy days.
  • You have complete control. Turn off the lights you don’t need. Turn on the lighting fixtures for entertainment. Out of town? Turn off the sidewalk lights and put the spotlights on a timer.

The biggest disadvantage to hardwired landscape lighting is if installed incorrectly, they are easily disturbed. That’s why we discourage DIY (do-it-yourself) Phoenix landscape lighting. It won’t save money if a bad installation fails.

Plan Your Landscape Lighting Project

We have many ideas for outdoor lighting that increase your property value. Let’s put together a plan that will do wonders and work with your budget. Contact Turn It On Electric.

Author Chad
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Chuck P
01:46 23 Jan 25
Friendly, communicative, and professional.High quality work.
Renee Delu
18:10 11 Jan 25
Mike you are the best!! God bless you for comming out saturday when I blew my fuse trying to vacumm and shout out to Josh who although not have sat office hours called me anyway after I left a voicemail. .Bob Best was here and gave me amazing information that NO OTHER electrician had. .!! I'm happy to say this is an amazing caring company...and I'm a customer for life!! Please recognize and reward Mike And Josh for them saving me on Saturday as my security system had no power and my smoke alarm had been beeping for hours. These men deserve kudos. .if you are looking fir honest and highly qualified electrical work. This is where to go. I'm thankful and grateful. Bob is now an instructor ..I'm happy to know future electricians are being schooled and trained by him. Thanks to you all
Wally Johns
01:31 11 Jan 25
Good work and very polite guys.
Rebecca RB
01:03 21 Oct 24
This company literally saved us! We had some electrical issues discovered that were rather alarming and created an issue with the garage door opener completely lost power as well as our outdoor dusk to dawn lighting and the interior garage lights. Mike the electrician came to the rescue! He listened to the issues in my non electrical language (haha) translated it and solved everything with confidence! Knowledgeable, Friendly, prompt, professional and efficient! Highly recommended! Will definitely call for future needs!
luci redmond
15:28 12 Oct 24
Great customer service & a job well done!
Samuel Heffner
17:04 14 Aug 24
I called TIO Electric because a friend referred them and they did not disappoint. I had an issue and it was rough identifying the source of the problem. Miguel and Conrad worked together to identify and solve the problem quickly. As a services based business it was extremely important to get the repair done quickly and the team stayed to ensure the job was done before they left. I expected to have to schedule another visit due to the complexity of the case, but they understood I needed to be back up and running as soon as possible and got the job done in just a few hours. They were very professional and personable and the cost was in line with what I expected.Update 8/14/24: TIO helped me again. This time with an issue I was having at my home. Marcus was very nice and knowledgable and was able to identify the problem and make the repair in quick time. I had a secondary issue I wasn't too worried about, but Marcus took care of that as well. These guys know what they're doing. Still highly recommend.They did a great job. I would definitely recommend them for projects big and small.
Caren Zellmer
12:46 03 Jul 24
Excellent service!! Marcus has been to our house a couple of times and completed the work doing an AMAZING job. He was very polite, professional and explained every process to us. His work was also completed in a timely manner. It is very rare to find anyone with great work ethic anymore! This company is very lucky to have him. We would definitely recommend and use Turn It On Electric again.
Bob
14:42 10 Jun 22
They were on time, clean, friendly, professional and did an amazing job. I would have to say that the price was fair considering the amount of work done. Highly recommend Turn It On Electrical!
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