Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more common every year, and adding EV charging stations to your commercial property is a smart choice.

Not only does it make your business more attractive to eco-conscious customers, but it also shows you care about sustainability. Plus, it’s a great way to provide perks for employees while staying ahead of market trends.

But how do you know which EV charging station is the right one for your property? Let’s delve into some simple steps so that you can make an informed decisions.

Why EV Charging Stations Are a Great Investment

Adding an EV charging station to your property is more than just convenient for EV drivers—it’s a way to future-proof your business. They (EV drivers) often seek out businesses that support sustainability, and by providing EV charging, you create an inviting environment that shows you care about the planet. For retail spaces, office buildings, or hotels, having EV chargers can drive more customers to your door, boost employee satisfaction, and set your brand apart as forward-thinking.

There are also financial benefits! Many states offer rebates and incentives for installing EV chargers, reducing your upfront costs and increasing long-term ROI. These programs make it easier and more affordable to upgrade your property with EV charging stations.

Step 1: Understand Your Needs

Before you buy an EV charger, take a moment to think about what you need. Here are some key questions to ask:

          A. Who Are You Installing For?

• Customers need faster chargers to top off their EVs while shopping or dining.

• Employees can use slower chargers for vehicles parked during work hours.

• High-traffic areas might need multiple chargers to meet demand. 

  
  B. What’s Your Parking Lot Setup?

• Decide how many spaces to dedicate to EV charging. Don’t forget to consider future growth!

• Check your electrical system—can it handle the additional load? If not, you may need an upgrade 

  C. What’s Your Budget?

• Costs don’t stop at the charger; think about installation, maintenance, and software updates.

• Look into available incentives—it can help lower your expenses. 

  D. Do You Need Smart Features?

• Networked chargers allow remote monitoring, user tracking, and even payment options. These are great for commercial setups.

By answering these questions, you’ll have a good starting point to narrow down your options.

Step 2: Know the Types of EV Chargers

There are two main types of EV chargers you’ll hear about for commercial properties—Level 1 and Level 2. Here’s how they stack up:

Level 1 EV Chargers

• How They Work: Level 1 chargers plug into a standard 120-volt outlet and provide 2-5 miles of range per hour.

• Best For: Long-term parking, such as employee vehicles left overnight.

• Pros: They’re inexpensive and easy to install.

• Cons: They’re too slow for most commercial uses. Level 1 EV chargers are better for homes or places where EV use is minimal.

Level 2 EV Chargers

• How They Work: Level 2 chargers use a 240-volt power source and provide 10-60 miles of range per hour, depending on the vehicle and charger.

• Best For: Commercial properties like retail centers, restaurants, and offices where people need faster charges during shorter visits.

• Pros: These chargers offer a great balance of speed, cost, and features. Many commercial-grade units come with advanced options like payment processing and usage tracking. The Emporia Level 2 EV Charger is an excellent choice for residential properties, but for businesses, go with networked Level 2 chargers that are designed for multiple users.

Which One Should You Choose?

If you’re running a commercial space, a Tesla Level 2 EV charging station is generally the best option. It’s fast, efficient, and ideal for both customer and employee use. On the other hand, skip Level 1 chargers unless you’re focusing on overnight parking for employees.

Step 3: Features Your EV Charger Should Have

Not all EV chargers are the same, so make sure to look for these important features if you’re installing them on your commercial property:

1. Durability and Weather Resistance

Outdoor chargers need to withstand all kinds of weather to last a long time.

     2. Network Connectivity

Choose chargers that can connect to a network for tracking usage, remote monitoring, and software updates.

     3. Payment Options

Make it easy for users to pay by offering choices like credit cards or app-based systems.

     4. Access Control

Ensure only authorized users can access the charger—this prevents misuse.

     5. Load Management

If you plan to install multiple chargers, load management ensures the electric load is distributed efficiently.

     6. Safety Certifications

Pick chargers that meet safety standards to protect both your property and EV drivers.

     7. Customer Support and Maintenance

Choose a provider with reliable support services to keep your chargers working smoothly.

Step 4: Plan for Installation and Maintenance

Installing an EV charger isn’t something you can do yourself. It requires professionals who know local codes and safety requirements. Always hire certified electricians to ensure the installation is done correctly. They’ll also help you figure out how much power your site needs and if any upgrades are required.

Once the chargers are installed, regular maintenance is critical. Work with companies that offer maintenance plans to ensure everything runs smoothly over the years.

Final Thoughts

It doesn’t have to be hard to choose the ideal EV charging station for your business. You may make an informed choice that will help both the environment and your company by being aware of your needs and available options.

For most commercial properties, a Level 2 EV charger is the best choice because of its speed and practicality. Remember to consider advanced features like payment systems and network connectivity to make your chargers more user-friendly.

Installing EV charging stations positions your business as a sustainable one attracts new customers, and shows your commitment to innovation.

Plan your EV charging solution now to move your company forward. Don’t wait! Get in touch with us right away if you want to install an EV charger on your business site. Ez Ev Electric offer comprehensive commercial and residential EV charger installation services across Colorado.