There’s no doubt that electric vehicles (EVs) continue to gain popularity. Not only do they help EV drivers lower their carbon footprint, but they also help folks save money on gas. However, one issue that makes some people think twice about becoming EV owners is how to charge their vehicles conveniently and efficiently. 

Public charging stations are quickly becoming more available, but many EV owners may also install a home charging station. These at-home charging stations make it more convenient to charge EVs — including battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). 

Below, we’ll delve into EV charging at home, including the types of chargers available, installation considerations, incentives, safety, and how to save time and money. 

What Is EV Charging at Home? 

Home EV charging refers to having the equipment at home necessary to charge an electric vehicle‘s battery. This makes charging an EV battery as convenient as possible. 

When you own an electric car, having a home charging station is a game-changer. Instead of searching for a vacant public charging station or waiting in line for one after a day of driving, you can simply head home and charge your car overnight while you sleep. 

What Are the Benefits of EV Charging at Home? 

One of the key advantages of home EV charging is the savings, especially with off-peak electricity rates. Many utility companies offer lower rates during non-peak hours, typically at night. When you schedule your car charging during these hours at home, you can save money compared to charging at a public vehicle charging station. For example, a NerdWallet study found the typical cost to gain 100 miles of charge at home was $2 to $22, whereas a public charger costs $6 to $35. 

Pro tip: Learn more about the cost to charge an electric car or plug-in hybrid. 

Home EV charging benefits go well beyond convenience and cost savings. Having a home charging station is also a great way to gain peace of mind. As EVs gain popularity, vacant public charging stations may become harder to find along your route or near your home. You have complete control over your charging needs if you have an at-home charger. 

Furthermore, with EV charging at home, you can focus on more efficient energy management. For example, you could install solar panels and charge your electric vehicle using a renewable energy source. 

Home EV charging is an essential aspect of electric vehicle ownership as it makes charging more convenient and can lead to cost savings. 

What Types of Home EV Chargers Are Available? 

There are two main types of home EV chargers to pick from: Level 1 chargers and Level 2 chargers. 

Level 1 chargers are the simplest of the group and are typically included with the purchase of an electric vehicle. These chargers plug into a standard 110- or 120-volt household outlet and provide a charging speed of around 3.5 to 6.5 miles of range per hour. 

A Level 1 charger is ideal for PHEV owners, but most BEV owners will find them too slow, as some higher-range models can take upward of 50 hours to reach 80% charge. 

Level 1 chargers are typically relatively simple units that look like an extension cord with a large box on one end, which houses all the computing and regulating hardware. 

Level 2 chargers offer faster charging speeds, typically delivering around 32 miles of range per hour, meaning they can charge a PHEV in about one to four hours and get a BEV to 80% charge in about four to 10 hours. The other big difference is chargers require a dedicated 220- or 240-volt circuit, similar to those used for electric dryers or ranges. 

Level 2 chargers are best for EV drivers with daily commutes who cannot wait longer than a normal night’s sleep for a full charge. They’re also more flexible in terms of futureproofing as they can accommodate faster-charging technologies. 

Level 2 chargers come in two primary forms. The simplest is the portable Level 2 charger, which looks just like the Level 1 charger but has a plug that fits a 220- or 240-volt outlet. These are great because you can use an existing 220- or 240-volt plug, like the one that powers your clothes dryer, instead of installing a new plug. The second form is the wall box. The wall box charger is typically more technologically advanced and generally charges at a faster rate than a portable Level 2 charger. 

How Does Home EV Charging Station Installation Work? 

“Installing a home EV charging station requires a professional electrician who assesses the homeowner’s electrical panel capacity, ensures proper wiring and grounding, and installs the charging station according to electrical code requirements.  

The electrician will help choose the ideal placement of your EV charging station and ensure your electrical system is up to the task — this often includes installing a dedicated 220-volt power source and a breaker with enough amps to run the charger. 

Homeowners should consider the availability of sufficient electrical capacity, charger location relative to where they park the EV, and any required wiring or infrastructure upgrades. Some older homes may need electrical panel upgrades or new circuits to accommodate the charging station‘s power requirements. Homeowners may also want to consider the charging station’s aesthetics and choose a model that blends well with the property’s design and decor. 

What Upgrades Does Your Home Need for Level 2 EV Charging at Home? 

Faster Level 2 charging requires a dedicated, hardwired 220- or 240-volt circuit with sufficient amperage to support the charging station‘s power output. This may require upgrading the home’s electrical panel to accommodate the additional load.  

A professional electrician can evaluate the existing electrical infrastructure and determine if it needs upgrades to ensure the electrical panel can handle the increased current demand. 

It’s critical to have a qualified electrician perform an assessment and make any necessary upgrades to ensure your EV charging station operates safely and efficiently. Installing a Level 2 charger without the proper electrical infrastructure upgrades can create electrical hazards, including circuit overloads or even electrical fires. 

What Home EV Charger Incentives or Rebates Are Available to Homeowners? 

Many governments, utilities, and EV manufacturers offer incentives and rebates to encourage homeowners to install EV charging systems. With Level 1 chargers costing about $300 to $600 and Level 2 chargers running about $500 to $700, plus installation, these incentives can go a long way in offsetting this relatively large investment. In some areas, homeowners may also be eligible for grants, tax credits, or utility rebates that absorb much of the upfront costs. 

On a national level, the Inflation Reduction Act brought back the defunct home EV charger credit. It now offers a tax credit of up to 30% of the hardware and installation cost — permit and inspection costs not included. The cap on this credit, which runs through December 31, 2032, is $1,000. 

Homeowners should fully research the available incentives in their area and consult with their local utility or government agencies to determine their eligibility before moving forward. 

How Can Homeowners Monitor and Manage Their Home EV Charging Station? 

While some chargers don’t offer simple monitoring, newer smart chargers have Wi-Fi connectivity that allow them to communicate with a smartphone app. You can then monitor and control the smart EV charger from the app. Some even allow you to adjust charging times to prioritize charging during off-peak hours to take advantage of lower electricity rates. 

In addition to smart chargers, some electric vehicles have their own scheduled charging functionality. You can go into the vehicle’s settings and set it up to only accept a charge during specific times of the day — ideally when electricity rates are at their lowest. 

What Are Some Safety Considerations When Installing and Using Home EV Chargers? 

Electricity can be extremely harmful and even fatal when used incorrectly, so ensuring the safety of the home EV charging installation is paramount. First, always hire a licensed electrician who is knowledgeable and experienced in EV charger installations. An experienced electrician understands and adheres to all safety standards and regulations to protect against electrical hazards. 

Some important safety considerations an electrician will take include properly grounding the charging station, installing the correct circuit and breaker, and avoiding overloading existing electrical circuits. You should also follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation, use, and maintenance of the charging station, including periodic inspections and repairs by qualified electrical service technicians. 

When EV charging at home, it’s important to use charging cables and connectors approved for EV charging. Also, avoid using extension cords or adapters that may not be suitable for the high current demands of EV charging. You’ll also want to routinely inspect your charging equipment for any signs of damage or wear to prevent potential hazards. 

What Are Some Emerging Technologies in Home EV Charging? 

EV charging at home is constantly evolving as manufacturers work toward making chargers faster and more efficient. Several exciting developments are on the horizon. 

One emerging technology is bidirectional charging, also known as vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology. This technology allows EVs to charge from the grid as normal, but it also lets them discharge energy back into the grid during peak demand periods. They can also act as generators during blackouts or power outages. 

Wireless charging is another big development in EV charging. With wireless EV charging at home, you can simply park your EV over a charging pad embedded in the ground, eliminating the need for physical charging cables. This technology could revolutionize the convenience and accessibility of EV charging. 

Along with these charging advancements are advances in battery technology that may improve the charging speed and energy storage capacity of EVs. This can make home charging even more efficient and cost-effective. 

EV Charging at Home Makes Electric Car Ownership More Convenient  

Yes, the early years of the modern electric vehicle were far from convenient. Charging stations were scarce and slow, and driving ranges were a fraction of what they are today. Fortunately, technological advancements have made EV charging at home a possibility. 

More than convenience, electric vehicle charging at home can offer cost savings and reduce your reliance on public charging infrastructure. The best part is that we’re still in the infancy of electric vehicles and EV charging with many more promising advancements in on the horizon. 

For more ways to save, be sure to check out these tips on how to lower your energy bill. 

Brought to you by justenergy.com

All images licensed from Adobe Stock.