You have decided to purchase an electric car, now there are so many questions going through your mind. Where do you start? What do you need to do to ensure that you are setting yourself up for success? There are 4 different types on chargers, residential charging stations, charging while parked, fast charging at public charging stations and battery swaps. Although there are 4 different types of charging stations, this guide will focus on EV Chargers for your home. EV charging stations for your home will be the charger you make use of the most, so let’s start with home charging stations.
1. What is an EV Charger?
An EV charger is a charger used in an EV charging station. The charging station becomes the infrastructure to produce energy for electric cars and plug-in hybrids. The station provides electrical conversion, monitoring and safety functionality.
2. What are the different levels of EV Charging Stations?
There are typically only 3 types of chargers, Level 1 EV Chargers, Level 2 EV Chargers, DC Fast Chargers.
The chargers and vehicles will have a standard connector and receptacle, called the SAE J1772. This is so nearly all non-fast charging workplace and public chargers will work with your electric vehicle of choice. Fast charging does not currently have a standard connector.
3. Why have an EV Charging Station at your home?
If you have to solely rely on electricity to power your car, it is imperative to have a home charger installed at your home. This charger will be used every day, ensuring your electric vehicle is ready when you are to hit the road. The charging station is usually installed in your garage. If you do not have a garage, there are outside charging station options as well. Charging can range from 30min to 10hours based on factors such as the type of EVSE, type of battery, how depleted it was and the capacity of the battery. So, depending on the type of charger you choose for your home, you can always have some type of charge for your electric vehicle.
4. What EV Charging station features are important to consider?
There are many factors to consider when choosing your EV charger for your home. Sometimes there is more research done on the charger than on the electric vehicle you purchased! Here are the factors we believe you must take into consideration when looking at charging stations.
a. Charging Times – How fast do you want your electric car to charge? What are the cars capabilities?
b. Cost – What is your budget for the EV charging station for your home?
c. Safety – What safety precautions are important to you when installing a home EV charging station?
5. How do I get one installed in my home or office?
Now that you understand why you need an EV charger for your home and features to take into consideration, it is time to find an EV charger installer. Hiring a professional EV charging installer is critical to the success of this project. There are companies that provide a turnkey solution for EV charging station installations. Solar panel installing companies such as Sunshine Renewable Solutions will help you thru this entire process. They take a no hassle approach. You will receive a complimentary consultation at your home where they will assess your property and offer their expertise advise on where to place the EV charging station. In addition, they will review the options you have available for EV charging products. From there they will have their licensed professional installers come out to install the charging station so you can begin charging your new electric vehicles at your home!
Take the first step to get your EV charging station installed at your home now!
