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Electric Vehicle Charging Station

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MEP Academy Instructor
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Electric Vehicle Charging Station
Electric Vehicle Charging Station

Electric Vehicle Charging Station. Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations provide electrical energy to recharge the batteries of electric vehicles. There are different types of charging stations, each with different charging speeds and power levels.

If you prefer to watch the video of this presentation than scroll to the bottom or click on this link. Electric Vehicle Charging Station

Here is a brief overview of how some of the common types of charging stations work:

Level 1 Charging

Level 1 charging is the slowest and least powerful type of charging, as it uses a standard 120-volt household outlet to deliver electricity to the vehicle. This type of charging can take up to 24 hours to fully charge an electric vehicle, depending on the battery size, this is equivalent to a charging rate of around 2 to 5 miles of range per hour of charging.

Checkout these EV Chargers here

Level 2 Charging

Level 2 charging is faster than Level 1, as it uses a 240-volt circuit to deliver electricity to the vehicle. Level 2 charging stations can fully charge an electric vehicle in 4-8 hours, depending on the battery size and the charging station’s power output, this is equivalent to a charging rate of around 10 to 60 miles of range per hour of charging.

Electric Vehicle (EV) charging station showing two cars charging their batteries

Level 3 – DC Fast Charging

DC fast charging, also known as Level 3 charging, is the fastest and most powerful type of charging. DC fast chargers can charge an electric vehicle to 80% capacity in as little as 20-30 minutes. These charging stations use direct current (DC) to deliver electricity directly to the vehicle’s battery, bypassing the onboard charger.

To use an electric charging station, drivers need to plug their vehicle’s charging port into the charging station’s charging cable. When an electric vehicle is plugged into a charging station, the charging station communicates with the vehicle’s onboard computer to determine the maximum charging rate that the vehicle can handle. The charging station then supplies the required amount of electrical energy to the vehicle’s battery, which is stored in the battery’s cells.

Checkout these EV Chargers here
Image of Electric vehicle charging stations of various electric car manufacturers

Most charging stations are equipped with safety features that ensure that the charging process is safe and efficient. For example, the charging station will automatically stop charging if the battery is full or if there is a problem with the charging equipment or the vehicle. Additionally, many charging stations are equipped with monitoring systems that track the amount of energy used and the time spent charging.

Overall, electric charging stations are essential to the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, and they work by providing the necessary electrical energy to recharge the vehicle’s battery in a safe and efficient manner. They can be located just about anywhere.

Where are EV Charging Stations Located?

Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations can be found in various locations, including:

Homes: EV owners can install Level 1 or Level 2 charging stations in their homes, typically in their garage or driveway.

Public places: EV charging stations are becoming increasingly common in public areas such as shopping malls, parking garages, airports, hotels, gas stations, and public parks. Some cities also have dedicated public charging stations installed on streets and in public parking lots. Public charging stations are usually operated by a charging network provider or the property owner, and they may require payment for use.

image of an electric car charging it's battery

Workplaces: Many companies are installing EV charging stations in their parking lots to encourage employees to use electric vehicles, and are usually free to use for employees.

Highways and rest areas: Governments and private companies are investing in building networks of fast charging stations along highways and in rest areas to allow EV drivers to travel longer distances.

Residential buildings: Many apartment complexes and condominiums are now offering EV charging stations as an amenity to their residents.

Overall, the availability of charging stations varies depending on the location and region. However, with the increasing popularity of electric vehicles, more charging stations are being installed in various locations to support the growing number of EV drivers. Public charging stations can be located on mobile applications.

Checkout these EV Chargers here

Mobile Applications for Locating EV Stations

There are several mobile applications that can be used to locate electric vehicle charging stations. Some of the most popular apps include:

Tesla – If you own a Tesla vehicle, the Tesla mobile app provides a map of Supercharger and Destination Charging stations, as well as real-time updates on charging progress and estimated charging times.

image of Tesla electric car charging stations in public parking lot

PlugShare – This app allows you to search for charging stations by location and filter by charging network, charger type, and more. It also includes information about the availability of charging stations, ratings and reviews from other users, and the cost of charging.

ChargePoint – This app provides real-time information about the availability of ChargePoint charging stations, including pricing, location, and charger type. You can also reserve a charging spot and receive notifications when your vehicle is fully charged.

EVgo – This app provides information about EVgo charging stations, including location, charger type, and pricing. It also includes features like remote start and reservation of charging spots.

Greenlots – This app allows you to find charging stations and view availability, pricing, and charger type. It also includes features like reservation of charging spots and the ability to track charging history.

image of electric vehicle battery charging stations

Electrify America – Electrify America is a network of charging stations that provides a mobile app that allows users to locate charging stations and manage their charging sessions. The app provides real-time updates on the availability of charging stations, charging rates, and payment options.

These apps are just a few examples, and there are many other options available in app stores for both Android and iOS devices. Overall, these mobile applications can be very helpful for electric vehicle owners to locate charging stations, plan their trips, and manage their charging sessions.

Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations and how they work.

Strong Leadership in Construction

By
MEP Academy Instructor
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0
Contracting Success Series Good Leadership
Contracting Success Series Good Leadership

Strong Leadership in Construction is one of the key factors for a successful construction contracting company. This article is the 2nd in our series on “Contractor Success” and what the key factors are in Running a successful construction company.

Strong leadership with a combination of technical expertise and business acumen is one of those key factors. Here are 10 leadership qualities that are important for running a successful construction company.

If you prefer to watch the video of this presentation than scroll to the bottom or click on this link. Strong Leadership in Construction

1) Visionary and Strategic Thinker

A strong leader in the construction industry must be able to envision the big picture of the company’s goals and objectives, and strategically work towards achieving them. They must be able to think strategically and develop a long-term plan for the company’s growth and success, in addition to setting short term goals that are measurable. They should have a clear vision of what they want their company to achieve, both in the short term and the long term. 

2) Team Building and Management

A leader in construction must be able to build and manage a strong team of professionals, including architects, engineers, and construction workers. A construction company is only as good as its team. A strong leader must be able to build and maintain a strong team culture, motivate employees, and create an environment where everyone feels valued and supported.

3) Strong Communication Skills

Communication is key in any industry, but particularly in construction where safety and precision are paramount. A leader must be able to communicate clearly with their team, clients, subcontractors, and stakeholders, both verbally and in writing. A strong leader must be able to articulate their ideas and vision and be an active listener.

4) Decision-making Skills

Construction projects often require quick decision-making and problem-solving skills. A leader must be able to make decisions confidently and quickly, while considering all available information and potential risks. A strong leader must be able to weigh the risks and benefits of different options and make informed decisions.

5) Technical Expertise

Strong leadership in construction requires a deep understanding of the technical aspects of the industry, including building codes, safety regulations, and materials science.

6) Organizational Skills

Construction projects can be complex, involving many different stakeholders and moving parts. A leader must be able to organize and manage resources effectively to ensure the project runs smoothly.

7) Accountability

A leader must be accountable for their decisions and actions and be willing to take responsibility for any mistakes or issues that arise.

8) Financial Management Skills

Running a construction company requires a strong understanding of financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, managing cash flow, and cost control. A strong leader must be able to manage budgets, analyze financial data, and make strategic investments in the company’s growth. 

9) Attention to Detail

In construction, even small mistakes can have significant consequences. A strong leader must have a keen eye for detail and ensure that all work is done to the highest standard.

10) Adaptability

A leader in construction must be able to adapt to changing circumstances, whether they are related to technology, regulations, or market conditions. Construction projects are often complex and unpredictable, and a strong leader must be able to adapt to changing circumstances and adjust as needed.

Overall, a successful construction company requires a leader who is visionary, communicative, decisive, adaptable, team-oriented, detail-oriented, and financially savvy, with the ability to make effective decisions and manage resources.

Contractor Success Series

  1. Estimating and Budget for Contractor Success.
  2. Strong Leadership for Contractor Success.
  3. Good Project Management for Contractor Success
  4. Skilled Workers for Contractor Success
  5. Construction Safety for Contractor Success
  6. Technology in Construction for Contractor Success
  7. Financial Stability for Contractor Success
Strong Leadership is one of the key factors for a successful Construction Company

Estimating and Budgeting for Contractor Success

By
MEP Academy Instructor
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0
Estimating and Budgeting for Construction Contracting Success
Estimating and Budgeting for Construction Contracting Success

Estimating and Budgeting for Contractor Success. This is the first in a series of articles on what makes a successful construction company. Each article will highlight one of the key aspects that go into creating and operating a successful construction company.

If you prefer to watch a video of this presentation, then scroll to the bottom or click on the following link. Estimating and Budgeting for Contractor Success.

Accurate construction estimating and budgeting are crucial for the success of any construction company or construction project. It doesn’t matter what trade the company performs, or whether its new construction, retrofit, service, commercial or residential. Here are 9 reasons why:

#1 – Budget and Financial Planning: 

Accurate estimating helps project owners and stakeholders to create realistic budgets for construction projects, and to ensure that there is enough funding to complete the project as planned and prevent budget overruns. Accurate cost estimation is the foundation of the budget planning process. It helps project owners and stakeholders understand the total costs involved in the project, allowing them to allocate resources and plan the project accordingly. 

#2 – Resource Management: 

Accurate estimates enable efficient resource management. By knowing the costs involved in each stage of the project, project managers can allocate resources such as labor, equipment, and materials more efficiently. With accurate estimating, the right resources can be acquired and scheduled at the right time, and project delays can be avoided.

#3 – Contract Negotiation:

Accurate estimates can help contractors negotiate better contracts with project owners. This is because owners are more likely to accept proposals from contractors who can provide detailed and accurate estimates.

#4 – Risk Management: 

Estimating costs accurately helps identify potential risks and uncertainties that may impact the project’s timeline and budget. By identifying these risks in advance, project managers can take proactive measures to mitigate them. Estimating is a key tool for risk management. Accurate estimates help to identify potential risks and ensure that contingency plans are in place to address them. This helps to avoid cost overruns and project delays.

#5 – Client Relationship and Satisfaction: 

Accurate estimates lead to realistic expectations. When clients have a clear understanding of the project costs, they are less likely to be disappointed by unexpected costs or delays, leading to higher client satisfaction. Accurate estimating is crucial for maintaining good client relationships. If estimates are consistently inaccurate, clients can lose confidence in the contractor’s ability to manage the project, which can damage the relationship and impact future business opportunities.

#6 – Profitability: 

Accurate estimates enable contractors to price their services appropriately, ensuring they make a profit while remaining competitive. When estimates are accurate, contractors are less likely to underestimate costs, leading to losses or inadequate profit margins. Estimating is the foundation of a successful construction company, as without accurate estimates a company will go out of business. A construction company must understand the cost to build a project, and that starts with timely and accurate estimates.

#7 – Project Scheduling: 

Accurate estimating helps in scheduling construction projects. It helps to determine the time needed for the completion of each phase of the project and enables stakeholders to plan and monitor the project timeline effectively. 

#8 – Bid Selection: 

For construction companies, accurate estimating is vital when selecting which projects to bid on. If an estimate is too low, it may result in a loss on the project, and if it is too high, the company may lose the bid.

#9 – 5D BIM: 

Estimates are used in 5D Building Information Modeling along with the project schedule. By providing accurate estimates, the construction team can modify the building model and receive instant updates on the construction cost based on the cost data inputted from the estimate.

Summary

Overall, accurate construction estimating is critical for the success of any construction company or project, from the initial planning phase to the final delivery. Accurate construction estimating is essential for successful project completion, profitability, and maintaining positive client relationships. Overall, accurate construction estimating is essential for ensuring that a construction project is completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.

Contractor Success Series

  1. Estimating and Budgeting for Contractor Success
  2. Strong Leadership for Contractor Success
  3. Good Project Management for Contractor Success
  4. Skilled Workers for Contractor Success
  5. Construction Safety for Contractor Success
  6. Technology in Construction for Contractor Success
  7. Financial Stability for Contractor Success
Estimating and Budgeting for Construction Contracting Success

Domestic Hot Water Recirculation System

By
MEP Academy Instructor
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0
Domestic hot water recirculation system and how they work in residential and commercial properties.
Domestic hot water recirculation system and how they work in residential and commercial properties.

Domestic Hot Water Recirculation System. A lot of water gets wasted waiting for the hot water to arrive at a sink, bathtub, shower or other plumbing fixture. We’ll show you how residential and commercial domestic hot water recirculation systems work to save water, energy, time and money.

If you prefer to watch the video version of this presentation, then scroll to the bottom or click on this link. Domestic Hot Water Recirculation System

We’ll start by showing you three basic residential systems. Domestic hot water recirculation systems are designed to provide instant hot water to various fixtures and appliances throughout a home, such as faucets, showers, and washing machines, by circulating hot water continuously through the pipes, so as to avoid waiting for the water to heat up.

System #1 is the Traditional Residential System with a Dedicated Return Line.

Hot water recirculating system
Hot water recirculating system
  1. A dedicated return line is installed that connects the furthest hot water fixture in the home back to the water heater. This line allows hot water to circulate continuously back to the water heater in a continuous loop.
  2. A recirculation pump is installed on the hot water return line, typically near the water heater. The pump is designed to move hot water from the farthest fixture through the dedicated return line back to the water heater.
  3. A check valve is installed on the return line to prevent hot water from flowing back into the return piping.
  4. A timer or thermostat is installed to control when the recirculation pump operates. To ensure that the recirculation system operates efficiently, a temperature sensor or timer is installed near the pump. The sensor or timer controls the pump to circulate hot water only when needed.
  5. When hot water is needed at a fixture, the pump is activated and hot water is quickly circulated through the pipes, providing hot water almost instantaneously.
  6. The return line ensures that hot water is constantly recirculated, so there is always hot water available when needed.

If the home wasn’t pre-piped with a dedicated return line, then the following two options are available to avoid an evasive renovation project.

Under the Sink Residential System #2

A bypass valve is installed at the furthest fixture to allow the hot water line to circulate back to the water heater using the cold water piping. The Bypass valve stays closed while the hot water temperature is warm.

Hot water recirculation Bypass Valve under furthest fixture
Hot water recirculation Bypass Valve under furthest fixture

A pump is installed on the hot water line at the water heater. When the temperature of the water at the furthest plumbing fixture cools down the pump will turn on and circulate hot water from the water heater through the bypass valve and into the cold water line until the temperature is warm enough. The pump is turned on by a timer that is set by the user to come on when the residents normally need hot water.  The system can be easily installed within a couple of hours.

Under the Sink Residential System #3

Domestic Hot water recirculating pump under sink
Domestic Hot water recirculating pump under sink

There is a simple on demand hot water recirculation system that can be added to the furthest fixture, in our case a pump is added to the sink on the second floor of this home. The piping is reconfigured so that the water is fed through the recirculation pump housing manifold. The manifold is then connected to the sink. There is no hot water recirculation line, instead the pump has a temperature sensor that will shut off the pump when the temperature reaches it setpoint of 110F (43C), or whatever the customer sets it at. A little of the hot water will be sent into the cold water line until the temperature sensor shuts off the pump.

There are options on how to control the pump. By installing an Aquastat or temperature sensor the pump can turn on when the hot water temperature drops to 85F (29C) and keep running until the stat reads 105 F (40 C), at which point it shuts off. 

Another option is that there could be a timer set to bring the pump on at a certain time each day, lets say 6:00 am, a half hour before the family gets up. This would allow for the hot water to be ready for use at any fixture. 

Another option is a switch that is manually turned on or remotely if using a wireless App. With this option the pump could be set to turn off and on every 15 minutes to maintain hot water at the fixtures.

This avoids wasting time waiting for hot water, saves money and stops wasting water.

Commercial Hot Water Recirculation System

When selecting a commercial hot water recirculation system, it is essential to consider factors such as the building’s size, water usage patterns, and energy efficiency goals. 

Domestic hot water recirculation system in a commercial application
Domestic hot water recirculation system in a commercial application

Here is a simple explanation using a small hotel with one main riser.

A hot water recirculation pump will be installed along with a dedicated return line that is connected to the hot water piping at a point that provides a maximum of 50 feet in piping distance to the furthest fixture requiring hot water. The International Plumbing Code IPC, section 607.2 states that the distance from the source of hot water to the fixture shall not exceed 50 feet.

Then a check valve along with the discharge piping is connected to the cold water piping feeding the water heater. This is the basic layout. Of course there are many factors to consider when designing a commercial system so consulting with a qualified mechanical engineer can help ensure that the system selected is appropriate for the building’s specific needs and requirements.

When hot water is turned on at a fixture or appliance, the water in the dedicated return line is pushed back to the water heater. The pump then circulates hot water from the water heater through the dedicated return line, and the hot water is quickly available at the fixture or appliance.

Overall, a domestic hot water recirculation system can save water and energy by reducing the amount of time it takes for hot water to reach fixtures and appliances, and by minimizing the amount of water that is wasted while waiting for hot water to arrive.

Some recirculation systems use a thermostatic valve at each fixture, which automatically turns on the pump when the water temperature drops below a certain level. This can save energy by reducing the amount of time the pump needs to run.

Overall, a domestic hot water recirculation system can provide convenience and save water by reducing the amount of time it takes to get hot water at a faucet or shower.

Various Recirculation System Types

There are various types of commercial hot water recirculation systems available in the market, including:

  1. Pump-based systems: In this type of system, a pump is installed in the hot water line, which circulates hot water continuously through the pipe. A return line is also installed, which sends the cold water back to the water heater.
  2. Demand recirculating systems: In this type of system, a pump is activated only when there is demand for hot water at a specific faucet or fixture. This system typically uses a thermostatic valve to regulate the water temperature and a timer to control the pump.
  3. Gravity-fed recirculating systems: This system uses the natural convection of hot water to circulate it throughout the building. The system is designed so that the hot water rises to the upper floors of the building and then circulates back down through the return line.

Commercial hot water recirculation systems can save significant amounts of water and energy by reducing the time it takes for hot water to reach the tap. They are commonly used in hotels, hospitals, schools, and other commercial buildings where hot water demand is high.

Benefits of Hot Water Recirculation Systems

There are several benefits to using a hot water recirculation system in a commercial or residential building, including:

  1. Improved energy efficiency: With a hot water recirculation system, hot water is constantly flowing through the pipes, reducing the amount of time it takes for hot water to reach its destination. This can result in significant energy savings, as less energy is required to heat the water.
  2. Increased convenience: With a recirculation system in place, hot water is always available when needed, which can be a significant convenience for businesses that rely on hot water for their operations.
  3. Reduced water waste: By reducing the amount of time it takes for hot water to reach its destination, a recirculation system can also reduce water waste, as less water is wasted while waiting for hot water to arrive.
  4. Improved hygiene: With hot water readily available at any tap or fixture, businesses can ensure that their employees and customers have access to hot water for hand washing and other hygiene-related activities.

Domestic hot water recirculation systems work by continuously circulating hot water from the water heater through a dedicated loop of pipes to the fixtures that require hot water, such as faucets and showers. This helps to reduce the amount of time it takes for hot water to reach these fixtures, which can help conserve water and energy.

Overall, hot water recirculation systems can provide a convenient and efficient way to deliver hot water to fixtures, while also reducing water waste and improving energy efficiency.

There are several types of hot water recirculation systems available for commercial use, including traditional and demand-controlled systems. Traditional systems continuously circulate hot water through the pipes, while demand-controlled systems only operate when hot water is needed. The choice of system will depend on the specific needs and requirements of the business in question.

ASHRAE 90.1-2022

7.4.4.2 Temperature Maintenance Controls

Systems designed to maintain usage temperatures in hot-water pipes, such as recirculating hot-water systems or heat trace, shall be equipped with automatic time switches or other controls that can be set to switch off the usage temperature maintenance system during extended periods when hot water is not required.

7.4.4.3 Outlet Temperature Controls

Temperature controlling means shall be provided to limit the maximum temperature of water delivered from lavatory faucets in public facility restrooms to 110°F.

7.4.4.4 Circulating Pump Controls

When used to maintain storage tank water temperature, recirculating pumps shall be equipped with controls limiting operation to a period from the start of the heating cycle to a maximum of five minutes after the end of the heating cycle.

Timer Control

The pump is turned on and off according to a programmed schedule.

If schedule is set to have the pump off when hot water is requested, then water will be wasted.

Temperature Control

With the use of a temperature-controlled system, the pump will turn on and off to maintain the temperature setpoint on the return water piping, usually 120F.

This method keeps a minimum return temperature.

Temperature Modulation Control

This is a mixture of temperature control and scheduled control. The temperature of the domestic hot water supply is changed throughout the day based on the occupancy usage patterns. This could be high demand in the early morning for multifamily residential buildings where occupants are waking up and preparing for their daily activities or going to work. This method attempts to match occupancy behavior to a schedule for setting hot water supply temperatures.

Demand Control

Hot water demand for this method of control uses real-time user input and return water temperature. The pump will run if the controls detect water flow, and the temperature of the return water has dropped to a certain minimum setpoint such as 100F.

Demand control and temperature modulation work the best when combined into one system approach for energy and water savings

Summary

Hot water recirculation systems are typically installed to improve energy efficiency, reduce water waste, and enhance user convenience. By circulating hot water through the building’s supply lines, these systems can minimize the amount of water that goes to waste while waiting for hot water to arrive at the faucet or showerhead.

When designing a domestic hot water system use a compact layout where the distribution to any fixture requiring hot water is a short distance from the source. Install a recirculation pipe with short branches to each fixture requiring hot water.

Domestic Hot Water Recirculation System
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