Electric vehicles (EVs) have become the leading choice of consumers over traditional ones as they offer high battery life, efficiency, and affordability. According to reports, the market share of EVs has increased to 8.3% in 2021. For which was only 4.2% in 2020. What’s more? The size of the global electric vehicle market is likely to reach 1.4 trillion US dollars by 2027. This translates to a CAGR of more than 19.19% between 2022 and 2027. If you are planning to purchase an electric vehicle, consider installing a home charger system.
While you can find EV charging stations in places like retail parking lots or city centers, a charger at home can be a wise decision. Contrary to popular belief, installing EV charging systems is easy and convenient. In this post, we will share four vital things that will help you install an electric vehicle charger at home without hassles.
1. Understand the Difference between Home and Public Charging Stations
Home charging systems supply alternating current (AC). However, the EV needs direct power (DC). So, when you plug the EV into the charger, its onboard also converts the AC supply to DC. Thereby charging the battery.
On the other hand, public charging stations may supply alternating current (AC power) or DC. Usually, they discharge direct current (DC power) to enable high-power charging. These stations can be helpful while traveling long distances. For everyday use, home charging systems are the most suitable option.
2. Consider the Charging Level Choices
There are three levels of EV chargers available in the market.
- Level 1 Chargers: Need 20+ hours to charge the empty or low battery. So a 120V, AC Supply. It’s also known as simply plugging into the wall outlets.
- Level 2 Chargers: Need around 6 hours to charge a low or empty battery. For that’s 208-240V at AC Supply.
- Level 3 Chargers: Need 15-45 minutes to charge a low or empty battery, 480V, DC Supply
According to industry experts, level 1 and level 2 chargers are ideal for residential use. Especially as their power requirement is less. For that’s highly cost-efficient. Whereas level 3 chargers are expensive and all because of needing high voltage for operation. Hence, they are not suitable for home installations. In fact, continuous use of level 3 chargers can damage the vehicle’s battery.
So, opt for level 1 and level 2 chargers. Especially for a hassle-free charging experience at home.
3. Assess the Cost of Home Charging Your EV
While assessing the costs, you should consider the price of both the charger and the electricity. According to the US Energy Information Administration, the average national energy cost was 14.09 cents/kWh. However in most states an EV after hours in a separate meter can get 10 cents/kWh: where 100 kWh battery back is $10.00 to refill.
While the upfront cost of installing EV chargers is high. Yet they consume minimal electricity. The electricity consumption won’t cost more than the prices you pay for fuel and gas. EV chargers can prove to be a better and cost-efficient alternative in the long term. No wonder most EV owners prefer home stations to charge their batteries.
4. Compare DIY and Professional Installation Services
How should you plan your home EV charger installation? Should you opt for a professional installation or DIY? The simple answer is always to invest in professional installation services. The reason?
Installing an EV charger at home with the utmost safety requires a high level of expertise. Lack of knowledge and experience can put your family and friends at risk of high voltage electric shock or fire. Additionally, poor installation can impact the performance of your EV charger.
Get in touch with an electrician, who is an electric car expert. That’s for appropriate guidance. They can provide you with quality services. Especially that will result in a successful installation.
Conclusion
Recent research reveals that EVs require 50% less maintenance than combustion engine vehicles. They lack components requiring service and run on electricity. Thereby minimizing pollution and the cost of ownership.
EVs are essential for a sustainable energy future. Especially with EV batteries providing an untapped opportunity to operate from renewable energy sources. The best part? Installing EV chargers at home is safe and easy. Consider the many aspects of EVs to understand crucial details about their working, costs, and other requirements. This will enable you to install an EV charger at home and enjoy a great driving experience.
Author Bio:
Cory Peterson is Director of Sales & Marketing at LED Lighting Supply, where he focuses on improving customer experience and revenue operations. Cory writes about commercial, industrial, and sports lighting, along with topics important to contractors and facility managers. In his free time, Cory enjoys traveling, snorkeling, boxing, and cooking.
