It’s no secret that electric vehicles are the future. The convenience, cost-savings, and environmental friendliness all make them a logical choice for anyone in the market for a new car.
However, having a charging station at home is important for many reasons. It can be a significant up-front cost, but it’s worth it for the long-term savings and the peace of mind it provides.
In this article, we will outline the different types of at-home charging stations so that you can make the best decision for your needs.
Level 1 Charging Stations
In addition to these public electric vehicle charging stations, you may also be aware that you can install a charging station at home. If you charge your electric vehicle at home in a standard 120-volt outlet, it is called Level 1 charging.
Level 1 charging allows you to plug into any standard outlet. However, it takes a long time to charge your car. You will probably have to plug it in and leave your car charging overnight. Level 1 charging may be all you need if you travel short, local distances.
Level 2 Electric Car Charging Stations
If you are doing Level 2 charging, you use a 240 volt AC outlet, like appliances such as clothes dryers. If you buy an electric vehicle charging station to use at home, this is the type you will be buying.
Car owners often buy level 2 charging stations to charge their vehicles faster and to enjoy the flexibility of unplugging the charging station and taking it with them wherever they travel.
With a level 2 charger, it is often possible to fully charge your car in about 2-4 hours. Therefore, with a level 2 charger, you can expect to drive about 70 miles for each hour of charging. In addition, remember that one of the advantages of installing a level 2 charging station is potential tax credits.
How Long Does It Take To Charge An Electric Car?
The amount of time it takes to charge an electric car will vary according to a number of different factors. One of these factors is, of course, the car’s size and type of battery. The battery size and specifications will determine how much of a charge the battery will hold.
The time it will take to charge your car will also depend on how much power the car will accept. The other factor is how much power your charging station can deliver. The key factors are your electric car’s acceptance rate vs. the station’s output rate.
If you want to know how long it will take to charge your car, divide your car’s battery rating by either the car’s acceptance rate or the electric charging station’s rate of output, whichever is lower.
Here are four reasons to get a home charging station for your electric car.
Save Money
The cost of electricity is cheaper than gas, so you’ll save money by charging your car at home. In addition, many electric utilities offer time-of-use plans that charge lower rates for electricity used during off-peak hours. By charging your car during these times, you can further reduce your costs.
Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
Electricity is a cleaner energy source than gasoline, so charging your car at home will help reduce your carbon footprint. If you live in an area with coal-fired power plants, your emissions savings will be even greater.
Convenience
Charging your car at home is more convenient than going to a gas station. You can charge your car overnight while you sleep, so you’ll always have a full battery in the morning. And if you have a Level 2 charger, you can charge your car much faster than with a Level 1 charger.
Peace of Mind
If you have an electric car, it’s important to have a home charging station for peace of mind. If you ever get stranded with a dead battery, you can charge your car at home and get back on the road. And if there’s a power outage, you’ll still be able to charge your car.
Installing a home charging station for your electric car is an investment that will pay off in the long run. Save money, reduce your carbon footprint, and enjoy the convenience and peace of mind that comes with owning an electric car.
Electric Vehicle Charging Station
If you are an electric car owner, you probably already know how to find an electric vehicle charging station in your area. In addition, you may know of charging stations in parking lots that either charge for each use or are entirely free to use.
You can use these charging stations while you take care of your daily activities, such as shopping. Other charging stations are available at rest areas along major highways. In addition, electric car owners use these stations while on long-distance road trips.
These unique stations sometimes offer fast charging, where you can charge your electric car in less than 30 minutes.
Should I Buy A Level 2 Charging Station?
As you can see, a level 2 charging station is a good investment if you own an electric car. If you drive long distances, it is almost a must. As a rule of thumb, if you are level 1, you will have to charge your car for 1 hour to drive about 5 miles.
With a level 2 charging station, a 1-hour charge will take you 30 kilometers. So invest in a level 2 charger and enjoy more time on the road, tax credits, and all the environmental benefits of owning an electric vehicle.
Here are some recommendations to help you decide which one to buy.
FLO Home X5 Tungsten Electric Vehicle Charging Station
The FLO Home X5 Tungsten is one of the best level 2 charging stations. It is super high performance and runs on 240 volts and 30 amps. No matter which model of electric car you own, you will most probably be eligible for a tax credit when you buy this charging station.
This station has a 100% aluminum casing and has a NEMA 4x safety rating. In addition, you can use this even under the most extreme weather conditions, to 40 degrees below and 125 above 0 Fahrenheit.
Install the app on your mobile device and be in total control of charging. Limit charge power and energy consumption and schedule your charges. In addition, you will be able to monitor the progress of every charge. FLO builds this charging station to last and stands by it with a 5-year limited warranty.
Buy this charging station today and start charging your electric vehicle up to 5x faster!
ChargePoint Home WiFi Enabled Electric Vehicle Charging Station
The ChargePoint Home WiFi-enabled EV charger is another excellent choice if you want a level 2 charger. It is one of the safest on the market and is UL-listed, and Energy Star certified. In addition, you can buy this charging station as a plugin or hardwired model.
With this charging station, you will charge your EV up to 6x faster and will get 25 miles for each hour of charge time. In addition, you can install this charging station either indoors or outdoors. It’s always your choice!
This charging station is backed by a 3-year warranty and is the first charging station to be Energy Star certified. This means that you can save up to 40% more electricity than when you use other chargers.
This charging station works with all major electric car models. It also has a mobile app that you can use to locate ChargePoint’s public network of charging stations.
Create reminders and never miss a charge. In addition, you can control and monitor all your charges and save even more money!
Can I Fast Charge My Car At Home?
If you want to fast charge your car at home, you will need to buy a level 3 charging station. These are much more expensive than a level 2 charger and will require professional installation.
A level 3 charger can charge your electric car up to 80% in 30 minutes. So if you are going on a long road trip, this is the charger you will need.
However, not all electric cars can use a level 3 charger. Check with your car’s manufacturer to see if your car is compatible.
How Much is a Personal Charging Station?
Depending on the make and model, a personal charging station will cost you anywhere from $500 to $2000.
However, if you own an electric car, you may be eligible for a tax credit of up to $1500. So do your research and find out if you are eligible for any rebates or credits.
In addition, many utility companies offer incentives for electric car owners. So check with your local utility company to see if you qualify for any discounts.
Installing a personal charging station is a great way to save money and charge your electric car faster. So do your research and find the best one for you!
Should I Charge My Electric Car Every Night?
No, you should not charge your electric car every night. In fact, it is better to only charge it when you need to.
Charging your electric car every night will shorten the lifespan of the battery. So only charge it when you are going on a long road trip or when you know you will need the extra range.
Final Thoughts On At-Home Electric Charging Stations
If you own an electric car, then you should definitely invest in a home charging station. It is a great way to save money and charge your car faster.
Do your research and find the best charger for you. And if you are eligible, take advantage of any rebates or tax credits that are available.
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