Every new electric vehicle (EV) comes with a branded, Level 1 charging cord. With easy plug-and-play functionality, these cords allow drivers to power their batteries up using standard 120-volt outlets. However, Level 1 charging cords can take up to 56 hours to get the job done. Despite being handy, they’re impractical for consumers who drive their autos daily. Fortunately, you can enjoy the greater capabilities of a Level 2 charger with an at-home EV charging station. Read on to explore the pros, cons, and convenience of these increasingly popular installations.
Pro: Get Total Control of Your EV Battery’s Health
When it comes to protecting the health and life span of your EV battery, charging your EV at home is far preferable to using public charging stations. Public chargers aren’t always well-maintained, and they don’t always provide a steady, even power supply. This can lead to overheating, power surges, and more.
Level 2 home chargers are also better for batteries than DC fast-charging stations. Also known as Level 3 chargers, DC fast chargers can restore EV batteries to full charge within minutes. However, these public chargers naturally generate lots of heat and can rapidly degrade batteries and their connections.
Using a Level 2 charger at home eliminates the need for ultra-rapid charging. A Level 2 home charger can fully power your battery within just four to 12 hours. You can plug your auto in before going to bed, and it will be ready for your morning commute. With an updated and well-maintained electrical system, you can maintain full control over your EV battery’s health.
Con: Home EV Charger Installation Requires Electrical System Upgrades
Unlike branded, Level 1 charging cords, Level 2 chargers don’t offer plug-and-play functionality. Instead, these appliances require dedicated electrical circuits and special 240-volt outlets. Alternatively, homeowners can have their Level 2 chargers hardwired directly into their electrical systems. If you want a home EV charger and want to avoid the risk of electrical overload, electric shock, and electrical fires, be prepared to hire an electrician.
Pro: Save Time and Money With a Home Charging Station
The days of free public charging for EVs are fast fading. If using public chargers is the only way to give your EV battery a boost, you’ll regularly sacrifice both time and money. If you’re tired of waiting in long lines for public chargers before or after work, a home EV charging station is perfect for you.
Con: EV Home Chargers Take Up Space
EV home chargers have sleek, slim profiles. However, if you install yours indoors, you’ll need plenty of room to both connect and disconnect from this unit without running over charging cords. Fortunately, there are also outdoor EV charging stations for home installation. If you have a small or already crowded garage, you can install your charger outside. Outdoor units are built to resist the ravages of the natural elements.
Pro: EV Charging Stations Boost Property Values and Marketability
Installing a home EV charging station is an excellent way to increase the value and marketability of your home. This remains true whether you hardwire your charger into your electrical system or simply plug it into a dedicated 240-volt outlet. Even simply creating the infrastructure to support these installations will make your home more appealing to modern, eco-conscious homebuyers with EVs of their own.
Daily EV drivers need convenient, easy-to-use charging solutions. To experience the benefits of home EV chargers in Missoula, MT firsthand, give Hometown Electric a call.
