TeamElectric cars are getting increasingly more popular as new and exciting models come to the market. One of the best parts about owning an electric car is not buying gas. More importantly, you can simply charge your electric vehicle at home.
Depending on the type of electric car you have and the voltage of your outlet, you can use your house electricity to charge your electric vehicle. There are charging stations on the market designed for the home. In this article, we are going to consider how to charge your electric car at home.
How To Charge Your EV with a Standard Wall Outlet?
Most electric vehicles come with the standard 120-volt charging cable, known as Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE). One end of the charging cable is designed to fit the charging port of your car, while the other end is like that of other electrical devices that you can plug into a standard grounded plug. However, if the charging cable is not part of the accessories that come with your car or you need a longer one, you can buy it.
Keep in mind that you can’t use your charging cable with an extension cord unless it is designed for that sole purpose. Charging your vehicle through the standard 120-volt is known as Level 1 charging, and this takes quite a long time to charge your vehicle. With this level, you can expect your electric car to add about 3-5 miles of range per hour under the right condition.
How to Upgrade to Faster Charging
To upgrade to faster charging, you need to install a Level 2 charger (EVSE) in your home. This process can be simple if you have an electrical box and service that can accept a 240-volt outlet. And in some cases, you need a more substantial upgrade. A Level 2 charger and 240-volt outlet will allow your car to charge much faster and better.
To get your Level 2 charger installed, you should call an electrician and let them know you want to install a 240-volt for your EV. However, you may want to install a 240-volt outlet, as it is a cheaper option.
Choosing a Charging Station
Some of the most popular brands of EVSEs include ClipperCreek, ChargePoint, AeroVironment, Siemens, and JuiceBox. You can do research to find a unit that comes with the power output and features that meet both your needs and budget. It is recommended that you purchase an EVSE that can generate at least 30 AMPs of power.
Typically, this type of EVSE can help add about 30 miles of operating range to a particular battery pack per hour. Fewer AMPs are suitable for some vehicles, but purchasing more capability than required can help future-proof installation should you trade your current EV for a model that needs the added capacity.
How Often Should You Charge Your EV
It is not a must that you charge your car every night; it mostly depends on how much you use it. But charging daily is not a bad thing, so it is ready to go whenever you need it. Charging your EV at home overnight means you likely won’t have to look for where to charge during the day, which usually comes at a cost. Also, you may want to set a top charging limit, with 80 percent being a good rule of thumb.
Conclusion
Charging your EV at home is convenient and makes your driving easier than ever. You can make your home electric car charge faster and better when you upgrade your plug cable. Only consider charging objects that have been tested and certified for safety. Also, if you want to install your charge outdoor, make sure it is rated for that purpose.
