QMerit vs. Angi & Nextdoor for Level 2 Residential EVSE Installers: Which is Best?
QMerit is a service that helps you find electricians for Level 2 Residential EVSE Installers. It is suggested by many car manufacturers, including BMW, but there have been some customer service complaints. Angi (formerly Angi's List) is another option, but it has been found to be meh with a lot of gamification. Nextdoor is a better option as the recommendations seem to be more genuine.
QMerit works by having you answer questions about the installation, such as location of electrical box and location of and distance to 240v outlet. You also need to upload pictures of the electrical box. The process is easy and you may get 30% off your installation costs this year from the IRS. However, the quote from QMerit may be twice the quote from a local electrician.
When using QMerit, they assign a local electrician and the contract clearly states any additional costs must be approved before work begins. The electrician did an excellent job and there was a one year install guarantee from QMerit.
Nextdoor is another option for finding electricians. You upload photos of the exterior with your junction box, pics of your electrical panel and sub (if any) interior breakers, desired location(s) with surrounding area, and any other details you want to supply - like outlet or hardwired, whether you have attic space and access, EVSE distance from panel, etc. This allows them to make a firm bid without seeing everything in person.
Finally, if you are installing a NEMA 14-50 outlet make sure you know the orientation of the plug of the EV charger you are using as this can affect how it is installed.
In conclusion, QMerit is a great option for finding electricians for Level 2 Residential EVSE Installers. However, it may be more expensive than other options. Angi and Nextdoor are also good options, but Nextdoor seems to have better customer service. Finally, make sure you know the orientation of the plug of the EV charger you are using as this can affect how it is installed.
What is QMerit?
QMerit is a broker that finds local electricians to bid on proposed work. It starts with you answering questions about the installation, such as location of electrical box and location of and distance to 240v outlet. Pictures of electrical box also required to determine if it has room for additional 50 amp fuses.
How do I get an accurate quote without the electrician evaluating my home on-site?
You can upload (online) photos of the exterior with your junction box, pics of your electrical panel and sub (if any) interior breakers, desired location(s) with surrounding area, and any other details you want to supply - like outlet or hardwired, whether you have attic space and access, EVSE distance from panel, etc. This should provide enough information for the electrician to make a firm bid.
What should I consider when installing a NEMA 14-50 outlet?
Make sure you know the orientation of the plug of the EV charger you are using. If you install a 14-50 outlet make sure it matches your wall box plug. The provided BMW mobile charger 14-50 plug has the ground pin at the end of the cable. If you want it dangling to the floor then the 14-50 outlet ground pin should be up. The 14-50 cable is a bit odd as it plugs in so the box wants to hang 90 degrees and not flat.
Are there any discounts available for EVSE installations?
Yes, you may get 30% off your installation costs this year as well from the IRS. You can also check with your local electrician to see if they offer any discounts or special deals. Additionally, some electricians may be willing to work with you on a payment plan or other financing options.
What are the best ways to find qualified Level 2 Residential EVSE Installers?
The best way to find qualified Level 2 Residential EVSE Installers is to use QMerit. It's an online platform that connects homeowners with certified electricians in their area. You can also search for electricians on websites like HomeAdvisor and Angie's List. Additionally, you can ask friends and family for recommendations of electricians they have used in the past.