Although nearly all electric vehicles (EVs) come with branded Level 1 charging cords, these cords are hardly convenient. While easy to use and supported by standard 120V outlets, they can take up to 56 hours to get the job done. This is problematic for drivers with long daily commutes who need full range whenever they leave. For quite some time, the most common alternative was to seek out public charging stations. Unfortunately, the costs of using public DC fast-charging stations and Level 2 chargers are increasing.
If you’re tired of waiting in long lines for your turn at public charging stations, or if you want to limit your charging costs, installing a residential EV charger is the best choice. Level 2 home charging stations can power EV batteries up within just four to 10 hours. Read on to discover some of the many reasons why homeowners are increasingly investing in home charging equipment.
Add Value to Your Home
Level 2 charging stations don’t offer the plug-and-play ease of Level 1 charging cords. These chargers require dedicated 240V outlets and their own dedicated circuits. For greater ease, fewer cords, and space-saving installations, homeowners can also opt to have these appliances hardwired directly into their electrical systems.
Paying for the required electrical upgrades and modifications for home EV charging can add to your house’s value and marketability. Even if future occupants decide to install EV charging stations of their own, the infrastructure for supporting them will already exist.
Home Charging Promotes Better Battery Health
Charging your EV at home with a Level 2 charger is actually better for your battery than using public DC fast-charging stations. Although DC fast chargers or Level 3 chargers power batteries within minutes, they do so using a much stronger electrical current. While using a Level 3 charger on occasion won’t have a significant impact on your EV battery’s health, using one all the time could shorten its lifespan.
Even using a Level 1 charging cord on a standard 120V outlet can compromise your EV battery’s health if you don’t have the correct surge protection. When installing Level 2 home charging equipment, homeowners often upgrade their electrical systems to include whole-house surge protection. This protects their charging equipment, their EV batteries, and their entire electrical systems.
Enjoy More Downtime After Work
Relying on public charging stations is a hassle, especially if you do a lot of driving. Having to wait in line, plug your vehicle in, and wait some more is probably the last thing you want to do after work. With a home charger, you can plug your EV in before going to bed. Smart charging technologies can disconnect your vehicle as soon as your battery is full. When you wake up each morning, you’ll have full driving range and the ability to go wherever you need to.
As more drivers make the switch to all-electric vehicles, at-home charging is fast becoming the wave of the future. To shop an expansive selection of high-quality EV chargers or schedule an EV charger installation in Missoula, MT, get in touch with Hometown Electric now.
