Electric vehicles, or EVs, are the future. Manufacturers are launching new electric and plug-in hybrid models. Unlike a traditional internal combustion engine, electric vehicles need regular charging to work. You can charge at stations, but it is cheaper in the long run to get a home charger. But what EV charger will you need?
Basics of Home EV Charging
There are many models of EV chargers with different speeds and plugs. Let’s go over the basics of what you need to know. First, there are two types of plugs. The Tesla North American Charging Standard (called NACS or J3400) and J1772. You can pick a charger by the plug type, but many adapters are available. So, don’t let the plug type decide your choice.
What is far more important is the speed of your home charger. Which one works for your home depends on your home and circuits.
- Level 1: 120-volt AC charger that uses a standard household outlet.
- Level 2: 240-volt AC that needs a dedicated plug or is hardwired by an electrician.
- Level 3: 400 or 800-volt DC charger with a high cost for home use.
Which Charger Is Right for You?
The first thing you’ll need to decide is how fast you want to charge versus how much you can pay. A Level 1 charger doesn’t need anything special, but it can take days to charge your vehicle. A Level 2 charger can charge a car from empty overnight, but it needs a special outlet. You’ll need to choose between a plug-in charger that connects to an outlet or one that is hardwired into your home.
Some chargers charge faster because they have a higher output. But your current breaker might not handle it. You will also need to decide if you want an indoor or outdoor charger. You can use an indoor charger in your garage. But if you want to charge your car in the carport or driveway, you’ll need an outdoor charger.
After you pick out your basic features, you can also opt for chargers with bonus options. Consider automatic load management to lower the chance of overloading your home circuits. Another option you may like is a Wi-Fi connection to track everything from a handy app.
Ready to Install Your EV Charger?
Once you’ve picked out your home EV charger, it’s time to call in the local experts. Let the skilled electricians at C&C Myers in Charleston, SC, install your EV charger.
