When it comes to charging your electric car in the comfort of your own home, you might think there’s nothing more to it than plugging it into an outlet and sitting back to wait with a good book. However, depending on what kind of home you live in and what kind of electric car you own, you actually have a few different options to make sure that your home-based charging station suits your needs. Here are a few things to consider before you plug in your electric car charger at home.
When Can a Standard Wall Outlet Work?
You might be surprised to learn that you don’t need any fancy home renovations to keep your car up and running. Most electric cars come with a charging cable that plugs into a standard 110 or 120-volt outlet. This is called Level 1 Charging, and although it sounds easy and convenient, it does come with a catch. It can take up to 24 hours for your electric car to fully charge on a regular outlet. This is fine if you don’t drive much or if your car has a small battery, but it can quickly become inconvenient if you’re a frequent traveler or have a lengthy commute, or if your car sports a larger battery.
Do You Want To Invest in a Home Upgrade?
If you drive a lot, own an electric car with a large battery, or simply want more efficient charging, consider having a 240-volt outlet or charger installed. This is known as Level 2 Charging, and can generally bring your car up to full juice in less than five hours. Installing a 240-volt outlet is generally a simple job for an electrician, though you’ll benefit from having a professional scope out your home first to see whether installing a new outlet is feasible.
How Does Time of Day Matter?
Charging your car from home might do a number on your electric bill, so consider plugging in during off-peak times when electricity tends to be cheaper. The early morning and middle of the night are typically your best bets, as most people will be asleep and electricity usage is low.
What Type of Charger Suits Your Lifestyle?
Consider whether you want to invest in a charger that is mounted to your wall. An electrician can install this permanent fixture by attaching it via wire to your home’s electric panel. Some city ordinances may require a mounted charger, especially if you don’t have a garage and will be charging your car in the driveway or on the street. However, if there are no codes influencing your decision, you may prefer the freedom of being able to plug and unplug a portable charger whenever and wherever you please.
Where Do You Want Your Charger To Go?
Setting up your charging station in the garage may seem like the obvious choice, but if you don’t have a garage or if your garage has no electricity, you’ll need to find or install an outlet outside of your house. Also consider whether you usually park your car in a garage, driveway, or parking lot, or in the street. Many electric chargers aren’t built to handle inclement weather conditions, so if you live in an area where it storms or snows frequently and you intend to regularly charge your car outside, do some research and look for a charger that can handle rough weather. You may also consider having an outlet installed on a side of your house that is more sheltered from the elements.
Charging your electric car from home can be a simple process. With a little research and the help of an electrician, you can create a home charging station that will make your on-the-go life a breeze.
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