Do I need an ev charger at home?

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular as eco-conscious individuals seek to reduce their carbon footprint and save on fuel costs. In 2022, sales increased by 65 percent. Currently, roughly 51,000 public charging stations are dotted across the country, according to the US Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center. California leads with the greatest number at 14,040 charging stations, while Illinois has an unimpressive 1,217 charging stations.

The convenience of charging the car at home is an appealing perk of owning an EV. The owner has the freedom to choose when to charge and for how long.  However, a common question arises: Do I need to invest in installing an EV charging station?

Key Considerations When Deciding on Home EV Charging

1. Driving Habits

Consider your daily driving routine. If you frequently drive long distances or have a substantial daily commute, having an EV charger at home can be incredibly convenient. It ensures that your EV starts each day with a full or nearly full battery, providing the range you need for your daily activities.

2. Charging Infrastructure

Assess the availability of public charging stations in your area. The presence of nearby charging options may reduce your reliance on a home charger. However, having one at home can still be valuable for overnight or in-home charging.

Long gone are the days of having to search for a public charging station. Charging the EV with a Level 2 residential charger comes with enhanced confidence and safety.

3. Convenience

Home charging offers unmatched convenience. You can charge your EV at your own pace without the need for special trips to a public charging station. This convenience can save you time and simplify your EV ownership experience.

The convenience of charging an EV at home is unmatched. Most owners charge their EVs overnight while they sleep, and their vehicle is ready to go by morning. A Level 2 charger with 240 charging volts recharges the EV within 4 to 6 hours.

4. Cost Savings

Home charging is often more cost-effective than using public charging stations. For instance, an EV that uses 33 kWh over 100 miles can be charged at home for about $0.04 for every mile of charge. Residential electricity rates are typically lower, and some utility companies offer EV-specific rate plans that make it even more economical.

Fees at public charging stations are priced by the minute—which is more than what an EV owner pays to charge their car at home. Plus, electricity is costlier at public stations. Although installing a residential EV charger comes with an initial cost, it pays for itself over time.

5. Residential Charging Options

If you live in a house, you have the flexibility to install a Level 2 home charger. For those residing in apartments or condos, it’s important to check with property management or your landlord about available charging options. Some buildings provide shared charging stations, while others may require residents to use public charging.

6. EV Range

The range of your EV is a crucial factor. If your EV boasts a long range, you may need to charge less frequently, potentially reducing the necessity for a home charger.

7. Environmental Concerns

Charging your EV at home can be more environmentally friendly if your residence uses renewable energy sources, such as solar panels. Public charging stations may not always utilize clean energy sources.

8. Avoid Damage to the Battery

Charging from a lower-level charger at home is better for the battery than regularly using a Level 3 fast charger at a public station. The degradation of the battery is rapid, which prompts automakers to recommend limiting the frequent use of a Level 3 fast charger.

Some EV owners prefer to juice up their car within the shortest space of time: around 30 minutes. A Level 3 fast charger accomplishes this but customers pay the premium rate. Avoid the price hike and the damage to the battery by installing a lower-level charger at home.

9. Increase Home Value

EVs are the future, and more homeowners are switching or planning to switch to an electric vehicle. Unsurprisingly, a residential charging station is becoming more and more desirable. A home with a pre-installed EV charger is more attractive and increases the home’s property value.

The decision of whether you need an EV charger at home is influenced by various factors. While it’s not an absolute necessity, a home charger is often a valuable asset for many EV owners. It offers convenience, cost savings, and comfort, especially for individuals with predictable daily routines who want to enjoy the benefits of convenient and cost-effective charging.

Remember to assess your unique circumstances, driving habits, and local charging infrastructure to make an informed decision about installing an EV charger at home.

Call Nu-Trend for EV Charging Station Installation

Every EV driver needs a charging station at home in order to experience the many advantages of ownership. Installing a home EV charger is convenient when homeowners work with the pros at Nu-Trend. We recommend installing Level 2 chargers, as they provide a full charge within 10 hours.

Nu-Trend’s team of expert installation electricians makes the process easy even for the newest EV owners. We inspect your home’s electrical system first to ensure it is compatible with the voltage required for a Level 2 charger. Adjustments are made if necessary to accommodate the charger.

Our crews obtain the necessary permits prior to the charger installation. We proceed with the installation of our Level 2 charger, which is compatible with a wide range of EV models. Technicians are also available for repairs and maintenance.

Installing an EV charging station at home leads to greater cost savings over time. Homeowners have the freedom to charge their vehicles during off-peak times, which saves them even more money. Your time also has a price, and a residential charging station saves you more of it.

Once you realize the benefits of a residential EV charger installation, consult Nu-Trend in Schaumburg, Illinois.

We’ll expertly handle the installation from start to finish. Rather than rely on a weak Level 1 charger, choose us to install a quality Level 2 charger.

Call today at (847) 882-1888 to obtain a free quote.