What you need to know about Home Electric Vehicle Charge stations?

Even with the rise of hybrid and electric cars, gas stations still remain popular places for drivers to fill up their tanks. However, as more people begin driving EVs and other alternative fuel vehicles, businesses and individuals are investing in home and public charging stations.

Those who own electric vehicles know how convenient it is to drive them. They also know that they have a limited range and will often need to recharge before continuing their journey again. Luckily, there are now home electric vehicle charge stations that can be installed in your home so you can charge your vehicle whenever you need it.

Here, you will learn more about this convenient option, we’ll explain what home charging stations are, what they cost, how they work, and whether or not you should get one for your home.

What is an Electric Vehicle Charging Station, How Does It Work?

An electric vehicle charger is a device that connects to your car battery and allows you to charge your vehicle while you are home. This is a viable option and is especially useful if you are not convenient to go outside for public charging.

EV charging stations are devices that can be used in your house or garage, in the driveway of your home to charge a battery-powered vehicle. Some are connected to a building’s electrical power supply. Most are connected to a 110-volt outlet.

Types of home electric vehicle charging stations as per charging levels 

1. Level 1 home electric vehicle charging station:

The first level of EV charging is known as the Level 1 home electric vehicle charging station. Level 1 EV charging stations are mostly 110-volt outlets. You can plug into these to charge your battery. These are not suitable for quick charging and are mostly located outdoors. 

2. Level 2 charging station:

Level 2 charging station is the next step up. Level 2 charging stations offer more power than level 1 stations. It is best for larger homes with at least two cars. Level 2 charging stations can provide from 2.5 to 19.2 kW. These charging stations are mainly attached with 220-volt outlets. You can connect these to charge a fully empty battery in minimal time. These are suitable for quick charging and are suitable indoors or outdoors.

3. DC Fast Charger:

This type of charging station can provide more than 90 kW of power for rapid charging. It is ideal for those who need a high-power source or those who drive a high-capacity vehicle. They have the ability to charge batteries with a higher current than standard power sources and can provide 80% charge in approximately 30 min.

Installation Process and Cost-effectiveness of home EV Charging Station

Electrical and electronics are a bit complicated to install. But with the help of experienced personnel, it can be done easily. The installation process of a home EV charging station requires planning and carefulness. A professional team will take care of all the electrical wiring and installation. They will do all the necessary checks to make sure the wires and the installation are done properly. After installation, you will need to check the safety and security measures.

The cost of owning and operating a gasoline vehicle is very high. In the US, the average monthly expense for gasoline ranges from $150 to $200. On the other hand, an electric car only needs to be plugged in to recharge its battery after a long trip. If you buy an electric car, you can save thousands of dollars annually, however, you will have to pay a monthly electricity bill or go for a solar-powered EV charging station as a great companion.

Future of EV charging Stations

Buying a gas car may be the cheapest option, but it’s not the best option in the long run. In the US, about 11 million vehicles are currently being driven around on the roads. Almost 90% of these are gasoline-powered vehicles. As technology continues to evolve, the number of electric vehicles will increase, and similarly home EV charging stations.

Reference: