According to the stats, 7.9% of new car registrations in the USA are electric vehicles in the first quarter of 2024. As the popularity of EVs is increasing, more people are looking for residential charging solutions. Home EV chargers come with various specifications that cater to several requirements, and that’s why choosing the right one will impact your overall charging experience.
In this blog, we will discuss the factors you must consider while choosing the right EV charger for your home and how EV charger home installation services can guide you in this matter.
How Many Types of EV Chargers are Out There?
Primarily, there are 3 types of EV chargers—Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast chargers. Level 1 is
Level 1
The basic charging option for beginners. If you do not commute long distances with your car, then this is the best option. Level 1 chargers use a standard 120V household outlet, and you don’t need to hire professional Alameda top residential electricians for this. Once you charge your battery (the big one) fully, you can take your car for a ride for 48 to 100 hours.
Level 2
This is the most popular option for residential purposes. You can install this charger with EV charger home installation services both indoors and outdoors, and it can charge your EV within 5 to 9 hours. This type of charger requires a 240V power supply (like a dryer outlet), and the speed is 20 to 25 miles of range per hour.
In this system, various features are available, including WiFi, app integration, and scheduling. But you should hire professional EV charger home installation services to get the actual result.
DC Fast Charger
This is mainly used in commercial locations and highways due to its fast charging option. Despite using direct current power, it is not practical for residential installation because it requires very high installation costs and has grid connection challenges in residential properties.
Technical considerations:
- ○ Battery capacity measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh)
- ○ Charger output measured in kilowatts (kW)
- ○ Example: 65 kWh battery with 11 kW charger = ~6 hour charge time
Factors You Must Consider While Buying a Residential EV Charging Solution
These are the most important factors that will shape your overall charging experience. Be mindful of them while buying the charger.
Charging Speed Requirements
Usually, the choice of charging speed depends upon your daily driving patterns. Most EVs can handle about 32 amps per hour, providing roughly 25 miles of range per hour of charging.
While a 32-amp charger suffices for most drivers, those with longer commutes, lower-range vehicles, or aggressive driving styles may benefit from faster charging options. It’s essential to consider both your vehicle’s maximum amperage acceptance (typically 16-80 amps) and your home’s electrical capacity when selecting a charger.
Electrical Infrastructure and Installation
Your home’s electrical infrastructure plays an important role in charger selection. The National Electric Code requires the electrical circuit to be rated at least 25% higher than the charger’s output. Installation considerations include the distance from your electrical panel, charging port location, and cable length requirements.
For outdoor installations, weather-resistant chargers are necessary. Professional assessment by EV charger home installation services is recommended to evaluate your panel’s capacity and determine the appropriate charger level.
Mounting Options and Location
EV chargers come in two main mounting types: wall-mounted and portable. Wall-mounted chargers, starting at 7 kW, are the most common and can charge a 60 kWh battery in 8-9 hours.
While portable chargers offer flexibility, they typically provide less power (around 3.5 kW) and may pose safety concerns with loose cables. The ideal charging location should minimize the need for conduits and ensure easy access to the vehicle’s charging port.
Smart Features and Cost Management
Many modern EV chargers include smart features like WiFi connectivity, remote control capabilities, and programmable charging schedules. These features allow users to monitor charging status, track energy consumption, and take advantage of off-peak electricity rates.
Some utility providers offer special EV charging rate plans and rebates for smart chargers with built-in WiFi, making these features particularly valuable for cost-conscious users.
Safety and Reliability Considerations
Safety certification from nationally recognized testing organizations is crucial for home charging systems. Wall-mounted units generally offer better safety and reliability compared to portable options.
When selecting a charger, it’s important to verify manufacturer warranties, product support, and user reviews. Quality chargers typically range from $500 to $900, and while cheaper options exist, they may lack proper safety testing and convenient features.
Call for Professionals!
We hope you have a basic idea about the charging types and which cater to your requirements fully. Anyway, if you need any assistance regarding choosing the right charger for your needs or you want to schedule EV charger home installation services at your home, contact us at Boyes Electric.