Electric Car Charging at Home Everything You Need to Know
One of the benefits of owning an electric vehicle is never having to go to a gas station. If you own an electric car, recharging it at home is one of the perks.
Here's an overview of Electric Car Charging at Home Everything You Need to Know about equipping your household with an EV charger,
Types of EV Chargers for Home Use
First off, let's evaluate the two main types of home charging stations for electric vehicles. The two basic types are Level 1 and Level 2 EV chargers. The main difference is their voltage. Level 1 EV chargers operate using 120-volt outlets, whereas Level 2 charging stations require 240-volt outlets.
Four main things differentiate these two types of electric car charging stations:
Speed
Price
Installation
Mobility
There are other factors, too, that may influence your choice of home charging.
Speed
A Level 1 charger adds about 40 miles of range to an electric car in eight hours. If you have an all-electric car but you don't drive very far each day, that might be a good option. Level 1 chargers are also suitable for plug-in hybrid vehicles.
On a 30-amp circuit, Level 2 electric car charging stations add about 180 miles of range in an eight-hour charge. Level 2 chargers are commonly seen in public places. Also, for convenience, Level 2 chargers have a plug standard to most electric vehicles, unless you own a Tesla, in which case you'll need an adapter.
4 Common Questions About EV Charging at Home
1. How Long Does It Take to Charge an Electric Car?
Charging times vary depending on your EV's battery capacity, the current level of charge, your home charging station's settings, and the energy source. In general, a Level 1 charger can replace about 4-5 miles of driving per hour of charging, while a Level 2 charger can offer an additional 15-25 miles of driving per hour of charge.
2. Is It Safe to Charge on a Regular Outlet?
If you're using a regular electrical outlet, 120 volts in the United States, you'll need a specific type of charging cable to prevent electrical faults and overheating.
3. Is a Dedicated Charging Station Necessary for Home?
It is recommended, as it makes charging your EV at home safer and quicker. It also ensures you get the maximum range out of your vehicle. But, if you're unwilling or unable to pay the price of installing a Level 2 charger at home, using a Level 1 charger might suffice. It depends on how much you drive each day and what your budget is.
4. How Do I Maintain My EV Charging Station?
A home charging station for an electric vehicle requires very little maintenance if it's installed properly. When one part of it wears out it can easily be replaced. Smart EV chargers, which usually include Wi-Fi connectivity, can remotely diagnose issues and recommend repairs, often well before a malfunction occurs.
Electrical repairs and maintenance are important to keep your home in working order.
When a covered electrical issue arises, you can call T&C Appliance/HVAC Repair at 336-350-7004 and an expert Technician will be dispatched to your home to provide assistance.