When it comes time to charge a new electric vehicle, owners start looking into purchasing an EV charger. Longer range vehicles will take longer to charge, so installing an EV charger in a home is often the best bet. It all comes down to your car usage. Installing the correct charger will help you get the most bang for your buck.
Some things to consider when looking for a way to charge your electric vehicles:
- Driving range
- Driving habits
- Daily routines
- Public charging station availability
120V Connection
Many EV owners find themselves not depleting the battery fully. Meaning that a quick overnight charge can refill what was used. A basic 120-volt connection would be fine for those people who aren’t traveling long distances. This type of charging, known as Level 1 charging, uses a simple, standard outlet. No extra costs of installation are involved here but it can be a very, very slow charge.
240V Connection
Using a 240-volt power source gives you a higher output charge. With this type of charge, Level 2, you will be getting a faster charge than that with the Level 1. A special outlet must be installed, much like the one you use for an oven or drying machine. This can run anywhere from $300 to $1,200 depending on your setup and the charger you choose.
When it comes to choosing what type of charger you want for your electric vehicle it’s best to follow your daily routines and then decide. A Level 1 charger will not do for someone who has to drive long distances and has no time to charge. A Level 2 charger is the best bet for someone who is constantly in the car with no other options to charge the vehicle.
Homework must be done before making the decision. Make sure you are aware of all the available options out there when it comes to charging your car. Many large cities even offer free charging stations when you’re out and about.
Many utility companies also offer discounts for charging at off-peak times. Be sure to check with your utility company to see if they offer and special rates. Also, check to see if your state offers and rebates or incentives for purchasing an electric vehicle and charger.
Making this decision can be confusing and might seem daunting. Fortunately, there are people out there who can help. A local electrician would be glad to assess your situation and let you know what charger would be perfect for your home.
Elcon Electric has been proud to provide the South Florida area with expert electrical services for over 25 years. Our technicians are ready and willing to give you electric vehicle charging advice. Please call our office at (800) 446-8915 for more information.