Summary
– Most electric car owners charge their vehicles at home, which is the cheapest method if possible
– Level 1 charging is slow, taking 8 to over 24 hours to fully charge a battery
– Level 2 charging is faster and requires a 240-volt circuit and external charging unit
– Popular brands of home charging stations include ClipperCreek, Siemens, JuiceBox, and more
– Consider a smart charging unit for convenience and energy monitoring, ensuring it is safety certified for outdoor use
Article
**Investing in Advanced Charging Equipment**
If you are looking for higher-speed charging for your electric vehicle, you will need to invest in some equipment beyond the basic 110-volt charging unit that comes with the vehicle. While most electric car owners charge their rides at home due to the limited public charging network, at-home charging is the cheapest and most preferred method if possible. By installing a dedicated 240-volt circuit in your home, you can take advantage of Level 2 charging which can replenish a depleted battery in four to 12 hours. You will need to purchase an external Level 2 charging unit, also known as the electric vehicle service equipment (EVSE), to utilize this faster charging option.
**Types of Level 2 Charging Systems**
Level 2 charging systems come in two basic varieties – plug-in portable units and wall-mounted units that are hard-wired directly to a home’s electric service. Portable chargers are convenient for those who may need to charge at different locations, while wall-mounted units are more permanent solutions. When choosing a home charger, make sure the power outlet or wall-mounted charging station will be located within close proximity to your vehicle’s connecting port to avoid any issues with charging cable length. Popular brands of EVSEs include ClipperCreek, Siemens, JuiceBox, Tesla, and ChargePoint which offer a variety of features and power output options to meet your needs and budget.
**Selecting the Right Charging Unit**
Experts suggest purchasing an EVSE that can produce at least 30 amps of power to add around 30 miles of operating range to a given battery pack per hour. It is also recommended to future-proof your installation by opting for a unit with more capability than you currently need in case you upgrade to a vehicle that can handle the added capacity. Smart charging units with Wi-Fi connectivity offer added convenience by allowing owners to monitor charging from their smartphone, adjust charging times for discounted rates, and even receive commands via virtual assistants like Amazon’s Alexa. When selecting a charging unit, ensure it has been tested and certified for safety by a reputable source like Underwriters Laboratory (UL).
**Installation Considerations**
If you opt for a wall-mounted charging unit, expect to pay more for installation depending on local labor rates and permit costs. It is essential to have the charging station installed by a professional electrician to ensure proper function and safety. Additionally, if you plan to charge your electric vehicle outdoors, make sure the charging unit is rated for outdoor use to prevent any weather-related damage. Upgrading the circuit breaker to support the power needs of the charging unit may also be necessary, especially if you are using a 30-amp unit that requires a higher-rated circuit breaker.
**Benefits of Home Charging Stations**
Home charging stations offer convenience and cost savings for electric vehicle owners, allowing them to charge their vehicles overnight while utilizing off-peak electricity rates. By investing in Level 2 charging equipment and selecting a unit with the right power output and features, you can ensure efficient charging for your electric vehicle. Researching and comparing different charging units from reputable brands can help you find the best option that meets your needs and budget while ensuring safety and future-proofing your charging setup. With the increasing popularity of electric vehicles, investing in a home charging station is a practical decision for environmentally-conscious consumers looking to reduce their carbon footprint and save on fuel costs in the long run.
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