Electric vehicles are a growing trend, and it’s not hard to see why. They are cleaner, more efficient, and in many cases cheaper to run than their petrol or diesel counterparts. However, one of the limitations of electric cars is that they require longer charging times than refueling. This can be problematic if you don’t have access to a home with a garage or driveway. To get around this issue an electric vehicle charger can be installed in your home. These chargers can charge your car from empty to full in just a few hours instead of overnight, which is great for those who live in smaller dwellings such as apartments or city homes. But with so many different models on the market, how do you know which smart EV charger manufacturer is right for your needs? In this guide, we will take you through everything you need to know before buying an EV charger.
Why Buy An EV Charger?
Electric vehicles have been around for a while now, but they have yet to become the norm on the road. However, that doesn’t mean they aren’t a great option for the eco-conscious car owner. Electric vehicles are, on average, cheaper to run than their petrol or diesel counterparts, and they can also be cheaper to buy. EVs also have lower maintenance costs and boast more room inside, thanks to no messy oil changes or cluttered engine bays. If you are thinking of switching to an electric car, you may want to consider installing an EV charger at home. This will allow you to charge your car conveniently at home instead of making the trek to a public charging station. For city dwellers who may not have access to a driveway or garage and are unable to charge at home, EV chargers can be a godsend.
How do they work?
If you have a garage or driveway and can plug your car in, then you don’t need to worry about installing an EV charger. However, if you don’t have access to a dedicated charging station at home, then an EV charger will come in handy. If you have an electric car, you will need one of two types of chargers. If your car has a standard plug, then you will need to install a Level 2 charger. This is the most common charger and will charge your battery in around 10 hours. If you have a more modern car with a DC Fast Charge port, then you will need a Level 3 charger. This will be able to fully charge your EV in just 30 minutes. You will also need to have a suitable electrical panel in your home to install an EV charger. The panel should be able to handle the amperage required to charge your car.
Finding the right location for your charger
First, you need to find the right location for your charger. You will not be able to install a charger in every part of your house. You need to make sure that you have an appropriate outlet and that it is in a safe and convenient place. You also need to make sure that you comply with your local building code. This will depend on where you live, but you need to make sure that your charger is installed in a safe, dry, and well-ventilated area. You also need to consider how the charger will be used. If you have a family, then you need to make sure young children are kept away from the charging area as they will pose a significant risk of injury if they come into contact with the high voltage.
Installing a home EV charger
Installing a home EV charger can be a fairly easy process. If you are installing a Level 2 charger, then you will need to run a circuit to your charger. This can be done by having a qualified electrician install a breaker and circuit to your charger. If you are installing a Level 3 charger, then you will need a new panel as they require more power. You will also need to check with your local codes before installing a charger as they may have certain regulations in place. If you are in a rented house, you will also need to check with your landlord before installing a charger.