Experience the convenience of charging your electric vehicle (EV) in your home – it’s never been easier to drive electric! And if you take it a step further and upgrade to a Level 2 charger, you can have up to 60 miles of extra range every hour – how delightful!
A quicker charger enables you to make the best use of your EV and take those exciting electric-powered journeys, both near and far.
When selecting an electric vehicle charger for your home, compatibility with your automobile is likely not of consequence; however, there are a variety of other particulars to mull over.
Considering the different options for charging at home can be overwhelming, so let’s dive into some of the most critical factors and questions that can guide you in selecting the ideal charger.
Considerations Before Buying a Home EV Charger
Power
Budget
Regarding electric car chargers, the cost will be a priority, significantly since prices have subsequently increased.
A charger is sure to fit any budget, starting at a price of £840, including installation.
There are accessible chargers and installation options with a monthly payment plan that starts at £20, so you can spread the cost out.
Cable length
Charger compatibility
No matter the model, all chargers employ the same standard plug to attach to 240-volt outlets, yet, the cord used to link the car to the energy grid can come in various lengths.
Ensure you opt for a charger with a long enough cord to reach your car’s charging port comfortably. More budget-friendly models often come with cables that measure 15 feet in length, but more is needed if the port is on the opposite side of the garage from the power source.
For this purpose, it’s better to get a 25-foot cord. It would be ideal to find a unit with a reel to neatly store the line away or a corkscrew design, so you don’t have to wind down the cord manually.
Safety standards
Cost
The price to get your electric car up and running depends on the size of its battery, how far it can go, and your local electricity rates at a particular period of the day.
Charging your EV at home with a Level 1 or 2 EV Charger can save you some serious money, especially if you do it during off-peak hours like overnight – when demand is lower.
Invest in a Level 1 EV charging cable for around $200 – $300 – then you’ll be all set to charge your EV at home at a reduced electricity rate per hour. Plus, if you ever need to trust when you’re out and about, public charging stations are at your disposal – although they might come with a higher kWh rate, it’s worth it for the convenience!
If you’re looking to add some extra convenience to your home life, investing in a Level 2 EV charger may be the way to go! On average, you can expect to spend between $500 and $1,000 for the charging station, plus an extra $500 to $1,000 for any necessary electrical wiring or labour if you don’t already have a 240-volt outlet in your garage.
Portability
Hardwired or plug-in?
Many EV owners opt for hardwiring their chargers instead of a 240-volt outlet for a tidier and more permanent installation. It is a requirement in specific scenarios, such as outdoors or in particular municipalities.
When a compatible socket exists, you can take this machinery almost anywhere. Even if you don’t usually need to, you won’t need to call an electrician to set it up in your new abode!
A 240-volt outlet in the garage is convenient for other uses, like a cosy heater.
In defiance of tradition, JuiceBox offers a barely noticeable extra fee for hardwired models of the same product. At the same time, plug-in versions remain at the exact cost .
What Are The Benefits Of Using A Home Charging Station?
It's cheaper
A faster pace
A professionally installed home car charger can charge the battery to total capacitance within 45 minutes to 7 hours – far faster than charging at public stations. While rapid charging points are available, they often come at a higher cost.
It’s convenient.
Installing an electric vehicle charging station provides the convenience of personalised charging scheduling. It eliminates the need to rely on public charging stations and the arduous queuing process to charge an electric vehicle, thus freeing up valuable time for other priorities.
