Did you know that over 10% of new cars sold are electric vehicles (EVs)? That’s a lot of electric cars zipping around! So, why do you think people choose electric cars over gas ones? One big reason is that they can charge their cars at home, just like charging a phone overnight. Imagine never going to a gas station again because your car charges while you sleep in your comfy bed!

Home EV charging stations are not just cool; they make life with an electric car easy. You can charge up your car faster, save money, and contribute to a cleaner environment. Want to learn more about how these charging stations work and why they might be a good idea for your family, too?

Check out our full guide on Electricode and see why getting one is a smart move for the planet!

1. Convenience of Home Charging 

An electric vehicle (EV) charger at home is handy, like having your gas station in your garage or driveway! Imagine always looking for a charging station when you’re out, especially when they’re all packed, and you must wait in line. 

Instead, you can plug in your car at home and let it charge overnight while you sleep. By morning, your car is all ready to go! With a home charger, you don’t have to plan your day around where to charge your car or wait around at public charging stations. It’s just there at your home, waiting whenever you need it. This makes things so much easier and saves a lot of time.  Plus, you never have to stand in line or drive around looking for an available charger—no more worrying about whether you’ll find a spot at a public station or if it will even work when you get there.

By charging your EV at home, you’re not just making your life easier; you’re also making a significant contribution to the environment. This makes owning an electric car a lot more enjoyable and stress-free while also giving you a sense of pride in your eco-friendly choice!

2. Cost Savings:

Installing a home EV charger involves some upfront costs but can save you money in the long run. When you charge your electric vehicle at home, you usually pay less for electricity than you would at public charging stations. Home electricity rates are generally cheaper, especially if you charge your car overnight during off-peak hours when electricity costs are lower.

Many utility companies recognize the benefits of home EV charging and offer special rates or incentives to make it even more affordable. 

These incentives include lower rates for electricity used during certain times, rebates on purchasing a home charging station, or even grants to cover installation costs. These offers help reduce the initial investment and enhance the savings from using a home charger.

3. Faster Charging Speeds:

Charging your electric vehicle (EV) at home with a Level 2 charger is much faster than using a standard Level 1 charger that you might plug into any regular outlet. Level 1 chargers are fine for a slow charge, taking many hours, sometimes overnight, to fully charge your EV. In contrast, Level 2 chargers can do the job much faster, often in just a few hours.

This speed is super helpful for busy people. If you use your car often during the day and don’t have time to wait for a slow charge, a Level 2 charger at home means you can quickly top up your car’s battery, perhaps while you have dinner or work at home. 

4. Increased Home Value:

Installing an electric vehicle (EV) charger at home is not just a step towards modernizing one’s lifestyle; it also significantly enhances a property’s market appeal and value. As the shift towards electric vehicles accelerates, potential homebuyers increasingly value homes equipped for the future of transportation. 

An EV charger is seen as a modern amenity that suggests the home is forward-thinking and ready for the next generation of automotive technology. This can make a home stand out in the real estate market, potentially speeding up the sale process and even increasing the final sale price.

5. Government Incentives & Policies:

On the environmental front, home EV chargers significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Electric vehicles charged from home generally pull electricity from the grid, which is increasingly supplied by renewable energy sources. 

This setup substantially lowers the carbon footprint associated with driving. Compared to gasoline cars, EVs charged from home contribute to fewer overall emissions in direct exhaust and the broader environmental impact of fuel production and distribution.

Moreover, there’s potential synergy between home EV chargers and renewable energy installations like solar panels. Homeowners with solar power can use their energy to charge their vehicles, thus driving on entirely renewable power. 

6. Choosing the Right Charger:

Choosing the suitable EV charger for your home is an important decision that can significantly impact your electric vehicle’s usability and overall convenience. Here are some factors to consider when selecting an EV charger:

• Charging Speed: Consider how fast the charger can power your vehicle. Level 2 chargers are more common for residential use because they charge much faster than Level 1 chargers. If you use your vehicle frequently or need quick turnarounds, a Level 2 charger might be the best option.
• Compatibility: Ensure the charger is compatible with your vehicle. Most chargers work with a wide range of EVs, but it’s always good to check that your chosen model fits your specific car’s requirements.
• Cost: Prices for EV chargers vary, so consider your budget. Remember to account for the cost of installation, which can vary depending on the electrical upgrades needed and the complexity of the installation.
• Installation: Decide whether you want to install the charger or hire a professional. While DIY installation can be cheaper, professional installation is safer and often comes with added benefits like warranties and guaranteed compliance with electriccodes.

Here are a few final tips:

• Check for Rebates: Look for local rebates or incentives to lower costs.
• Consult with Professionals: If unsure, it’s wise to consult with a professional installer to discuss your home’s electrical capacity and other technical requirements.
• Read Reviews: Review customer reviews and product ratings to gauge reliability and performance.

7. Maintenance & Upkeep:

Maintaining your home EV charger is critical to ensuring it operates efficiently and lasts long. Here are some helpful tips and common troubleshooting steps:

• Regular Inspections: Check your charger for any visible damage, such as frayed cables or loose connections. Also, ensure that the charger is clean and free from debris.
• Software Updates: Keep the charger’s software updated. Manufacturers often release firmware updates to improve functionality and fix bugs.
• Safety Checks: Have a professional electrician perform a safety check annually to ensure all components function correctly and safely.

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

• If the Charger is Not Working, Check to ensure it is properly plugged in and there is power to the outlet. If necessary, reset your home’s circuit breaker.
• Slow Charging: Ensure that the charger is set to the correct speed. Slow charging can also indicate issues with home wiring or the need for a panel upgrade.
• Error Messages: For specific error codes and troubleshooting steps, refer to the user manual or contact the manufacturer’s customer service.

Upgrade to a Home EV Charger Today!

Installing a home EV charger offers numerous benefits, making it a wise investment for modern homeowners. It provides the convenience of charging your electric vehicle from the comfort of your home, leading to significant cost savings over time, especially when utilizing off-peak electricity rates. Furthermore, home chargers can increase the resale value of your property by making it more attractive to potential buyers who own or are considering an electric vehicle.

By installing a home EV charger, you’re also taking a step towards a more sustainable lifestyle. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and supporting the shift towards renewable energy sources align with broader environmental goals. 

Consider how integrating such a technology into your home can help you meet your personal and environmental objectives, ultimately contributing to a greener future.

Contact us for more information and the best Electrical Services.