Do I need a 50 amp breaker for my EV charger setup?

I just installed my setup and honestly, it was a fun project! Just follow the instructions carefully and you’ll be fine. But don’t forget about grounding; that’s crucial for safety.

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Absolutely! Grounding helps protect against electrical surges, and it’s a requirement in most local codes. Double check yours!

What about circuit protection? Should I use an RCD? I’ve read some places say it’s a must for EV chargers.

Yes, using a Residual Current Device (RCD) is highly recommended! It adds an extra layer of safety by protecting against faults.

That’s helpful, thanks! I’m still a bit confused about compliance with local electrical codes. Any tips?

Definitely check with your local building department or a licensed electrician. They can guide you through the specific requirements.

After all this, is it really necessary for everyone to go through the hassle of installing a 50 amp breaker? Can’t we use a 30 amp instead?

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While a 30 amp might work for some, it limits charging speed. If you want to future-proof your setup, go for the 50 amp.

I mean, if you’re getting an EV, you might as well do it right the first time! Just think of the charging times you’ll save.

So true, nicoleoconnell! And installing all these components correctly could actually be quite rewarding. It’ll feel nice to complete such an important project!

What’s the worst that could happen if you skip the 50 amp? A lot of downtime waiting for your car to charge, right? Just thinking outside the box!

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Haha, yes! You don’t want to be that person relying on public chargers all the time. It’s like waiting for your slowest friend!

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I had issues with my 50 amp breaker tripping frequently when charging my EV. I switched to a dedicated circuit and it improved the situation significantly!

That’s interesting, crystal37! I wonder if the breaker you used was rated properly. I’ve seen some that just can’t handle the load when the car battery is at a lower state of charge.

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I’ve faced overheating issues with my setup too! I had to install a better quality breaker to stabilize the performance. It made a huge difference.

Thanks for sharing that! What brand of breaker did you end up using, bakerkatherine?

I use a 50 amp breaker and haven’t had issues, but I’ve heard about others needing to reset theirs often. I guess it’s a bit luck of the draw!

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I wonder if environmental factors play a role. Anyone in warmer climates noticing problems with their breakers?

Totally agree with jjoseph! I live in a hot area and my breaker started tripping more than usual during summer. I think thermal fatigue is a real concern.

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Are there any specific solutions you found that helped, lambertkathleen?