How to Use an Electric Vehicle Charging Station at Home

Electric vehicles are quickly becoming the future of transportation. As our world attempts to become more eco-friendly to combat the effects of climate change, electric vehicles can keep us on the go while lightening our carbon footprint.

You have just recently purchased an electric vehicle, and you love it. When you go to the grocery store, EV chargers are there, and you hardly even notice the time it takes to charge!

However, you want to be able to charge your electric vehicle at home but are unsure how it works or how to even install it.

Here's how to use an EV charger at home!

Electric Vehicle Charging Station Basics

Like everything else with a battery, an electric vehicle will not run unless it has juice. An electric vehicle charging station converts the current of electricity to match your car's battery pack.

A typical house has an electrical current of around 120-volt or 240 volts AC. An electric vehicle charging station redirects the flow of electricity to accommodate your EV energy needs.

The 3 Levels of EV Charging

There are currently three levels of charging power you can install for your electric vehicle at home: 

Level 1

A level one vehicle charging station is the simplest of the three levels. Level one charges use a basic current of 110-120-volt AC and can simply be plugged into the standard ground wall socket.

However, the simplicity comes at a cost, as it may take 50 hours to fully charge a 200-mile range EV.

Level 2

A level two charging station uses 240-volt circuits, the same amount as your dryer. Most people contact a trained professional for this type of installation. Level two might be a bit more complex to install but has a faster charging rate than level one, as it can charge a battery with a 200-mile range in just about 12 hours.

Level 3

Level 3 charging stations are primarily used for commercial use as they can give a full charge in less than an hour, but cost around $50,000 to install.

How to Use an EV Charger

Charging stations are popping up everywhere! Learning how to use them might be confusing, so to get started, you want to ensure your vehicle is turned off before plugging it in. Keeping it off helps reduce energy waste, and your car will typically charge faster.

Lift the connector, then plug your vehicle into the port. There are fast and slow charging speeds, depending on the vehicle's battery capabilities and the charger you have. The process can take between 30 minutes and 12 hours, with an average of around 8 hours to go from empty to full.

Once your vehicle is ready, all you need to do is turn off the charge by pushing the appropriate button on the control panel, unplug it, and you'll be ready to hit the road.

Is an EV Charging Station Worth the Investment?

EV is transforming and adapting, and if you're considering installing a charging station in your home, you might wonder if it's worth it. The vehicle alone already provides multiple benefits, but having a charging station available also comes with advantages like:

More Convenience

Time is money, and investing in electrical upgrades like an EV charger at home means you don't have to go out of your way to find a station. You can simply plug in your vehicle overnight; in the morning, it will be ready to get on with your day.

Higher Property Value

As EV demand grows, technologies like chargers will grow with that. Many buyers are now looking for charging stations attached to their homes, and installing one can help improve your value, giving you a higher return if you plan to sell.

Faster Charge

Trying to charge your vehicle from a public space can take longer due to the electrical demands in the area. A dedicated charger makes it much quicker and reduces the need for quick charging, which can cause damage to your battery's lifespan.

Choose SoCal Electrical & Lightning for Your EV Charger Install

When you need expert service for installing EV charging stations or any other electrical or lighting needs such as home automation and surge protection, call on SoCal Electrical & Lighting.

Request an estimate online or give us a call at 760-699-2686 today!