With the rise in popularity of EVs, public charging stations are becoming more widespread. It isn’t too hard to find an EV charging station, especially in larger cities and along major interstates and highways. However, there are many perks to having your private charging station. Let’s learn a little about the different types of chargers available and the many benefits of owning one.
Choose a Charging Station That Meets Your Needs
There are three levels of electric vehicle chargers available for homeowners. Think about how often you’ll drive, how far you’ll go from home, and how much time you spend at home when trying to decide on the best charging station. You may also need to consider your home’s electric capacity and the model of vehicle you own. Once you’ve considered all the important factors, make time to speak with an expert electrician at AJ Danboise Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical to learn more.
Level 1 Charging Station
All electric vehicles come with a standard level 1 charger. This charger uses a standard 120-volt connection and plugs right into your typical home outlet. There is no additional equipment needed for level 1 charging and installation is not required. Simply plug into your car, plug into an outlet at home, and let your car’s battery charge. Using a level 1 charger is great for anyone who has plenty of time at home.
Most people use these chargers when they are home for the night, leaving the car to charge while they are sleeping. A level 1 charger gives you about two to four miles of driving range per hour of charging. This number can fluctuate based on your particular vehicle. Many EV owners find that this type of charger isn’t enough on its own to keep up with their energy consumption when driving. A level 1 charger works best for those who do not drive far from home or do not drive often.
Level 2 Charging Station
A level 2 charging station operates at 240 volts and charges your EV battery at a rate six to eight times faster than a level 1 charger. Level 2 charging gives you 12-32 miles of driving range for each hour of charging. Again, the specific amount of charge you’ll get depends on your make and model. There are many different options available with level 2 charging, so be sure to consult your vehicle’s specifications when choosing a charger.
There isn’t much sense in buying a more powerful charger than what your vehicle can handle. You will find level 2 EV chargers in most public spaces that offer EV charging. When purchasing a level 2 charging station, you’ll want an experienced electrician to ensure your home’s power grid can handle the electricity needs and provide reliable installation.
Level 3 Charging Station
A level 3 EV charging station will give you the quickest charge of all. These types of chargers provide 100-250 miles of driving range in about 30-45 minutes. These charging stations are great for quick charging and longer trips that require multiple stops for charging. You won’t find a level 3 charging station in tons of places, but they are publicly available. For level 3 charging at home, you’ll need the expertise of an electrician for the installation of the charging station and upgrading of your home’s electrical system.
Why Opt for Home Charging
Although it is fairly easy to find a public charging station for your EV, there are several benefits of having one installed at home. With a high upfront cost, you might be concerned about the money you spend installing a new charging station. However, once you learn about all the perks, you’ll probably find that the initial cost is well worth the investment in the long run.
Greater Convenience
Charging your car’s battery while at home is the easiest way to fill your EV battery. As soon as you arrive home, you can easily plug your car in and go into the house. Let your car charge while you relax, have a meal, or sleep at night. Doing so allows you to avoid waiting in public places, perhaps wasting your time while your vehicle charges. Boredom can also be a major factor when you think of charging in a public place. You can also avoid driving out of your way to find a charging station if there isn’t one along your route. A home charging station gives you far greater convenience when charging your EV.
Save Money
You pay for charging at a public EV charging station. This rate is calculated to pay for the electricity you use, plus make a profit for the owner of the charger. Charging at home means you pay only the cost of the electricity you use. You might find that your utility company offers cheaper electric rates during off-peak times. If so, that will be the best way to increase your savings.
The upfront cost of installing an EV charging station at home may be daunting but the money you’ll save down the road will make it more than worth it. Additionally, many cities and states, and some utility companies, offer incentives for installing EV charging stations at home. You may be eligible for rebates or tax deductions after installing your charger.
Enhanced Safety
Although some public charging stations are in high-traffic, well-lit areas, that isn’t always the case. When charging your electric vehicle in public, you run the risk of safety as you wait. If you leave your car unattended as it charges, your property could be at risk. The safest way to charge your EV is at home, where you can park the car in your garage or driveway.
Make Some Extra Cash
Don’t let your EV charging station sit idle when you aren’t using it. Several apps are available that offer peer-to-peer connections for private electric vehicle charging. Through these apps, you can offer up your home charging station to others for a fee. The fee is typically lower than the fee a gas station may charge, but still enough to cover the electricity consumed plus a little extra. You may also offer your charger to neighbors, friends, and family for an agreed-upon amount.
Start Charging at Home
Now that you have a basic understanding of the types of EV chargers and have read some of the benefits, it’s time to talk with a professional electrician. Discuss your driving habits and charging expectations with the electrician. This information will help the electrician provide you with your best choices to give you the charger that best suits your needs.
Are you ready to start the process of installing an EV charger at your home? Call AJ Danboise Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical today to get scheduled with one of our professional and expert electricians for reliable service in the Farmington Hills area. We also offer a full range of plumbing and HVAC services. Give us a call today.
