If you are considering transitioning to an electric vehicle, you probably have questions about charging. Where can you charge an electric car and how to use a home EV charger, are a couple of common questions.

In this post, we’ll take a look at these and a few other frequently asked questions.

Where to Charge an Electric Car, SUV, or truck?

You have plenty of options when it comes to where to charge an electric vehicle. EV chargers are often available at work, restaurants, and shopping centers. Hotels and even some gas stations also offer EV charging on their properties.

The amount of mileage you cover daily, along with your EV model also plays a role in determining where you charge an electric vehicle. Don’t forget to look at the various charging options in your area if you do not have an EV charger installed at home.

What Type of EV Charger do I Need?

Do you need a Level 1 or Level 2 charger? The answer typically depends on your driving habits and budget. When it comes to EV charging at home, Level 1 or trickle models are the most common.

Level 1 EV chargers are compatible with most existing home electrical systems, meaning you do not have to worry about paying for an electrical upgrade. Level 1 chargers are much slower than Level 2 models, but it’s not a problem if you spend several hours at home during the day or night. It will give you plenty of time to charge your electric vehicle. A typical Level 1 trickle charger can take up to 15 hours to fully charge an EV.

Level 2 home chargers use the same type of outlet as many large appliances, like dryers. These chargers are typically installed in the garage or side of the building. Level 2 home chargers are a little pricer, but they also have much faster charging times. Our Level 2 home chargers can typically charge an EV in 5-8 hours.

The other type of EV charger is a direct current fast charger. Also known as DC fast chargers, these units are rarely used for EV charging at home. These chargers are often found in public places, allowing visitors to quickly charge their vehicles over a short period. While a DC fast charger does just that, charges your vehicle extremely fast. The charging unit itself has a very hefty price tag, and comes with substantial infrastructure costs.

How Long does it Take to Charge an EV?

How long it takes to charge your EV battery depends on a few factors. The battery’s size, type of charger, and how many kilowatts are needed, all factor into charging times.

It will take longer to fully charge a large, depleted battery with a Level 1 trickle charger, sometimes all night, than with a faster Level 2 EV charging unit.

A good point to remember as you are looking at EV chargers is your average driving distance. It takes around 4.5 hours to recharge your battery after driving 25 miles with a Level 1 trickle EV charger. The charging times decrease a with a Level 2 home charger.

Can You Install a Level 2 Charger at Home?

You shouldn’t have any issues installing a Level 2 home charger, but you may need to upgrade your electrical system to handle the extra load.

Some utility providers offer incentives to homeowners to help offset installation costs. You can also take advantage of the state, local, and federal financial assistance programs. With a little research, installing a Level 2 home charger may be more cost-effective than you think.

Does EV Charging at Home Raise My Electric Bill?

While charging your EV at home can increase your electric bill, you are saving money on gas costs.

The price of gas outweighs your electrical rate. Depending on your electricity plan, you may barely notice a difference in your monthly bills. Some energy providers offer plans with free weekends or evenings, making it easy to charge your EV without paying a fee.

How to Charge an Electric Car as a Renter?

Renters and EV owners living in condos can still charge their vehicles at home. Many multi-family complexes are installing Level 2 EV chargers for residents and visitors.

Depending on your rental agreement or HOA policy, you may be able to install a Level 1 or 2 EV charger in your designated parking spot.

Another option is plugging your vehicle into a garage outlet. It will depend on the type of electric vehicle and if it is compatible with a 120 or 220-volt outlet, depending on which type of plug is at your complex.

How to Charge an Electric Car on a Road Trip?

Drivers want to do more with their EVs than commute around town. They want to take their electric vehicle on road trips to see the sights and visit loved ones.

Since you can’t take your home EV charger on the road, you worry about getting stranded with a dead battery.

Thankfully, this is changing. EV charging infrastructure is becoming more robust across the country. Federal programs, including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, are currently installing new Level 2 and Level 3 chargers along the nation’s highways.

You can also take advantage of handy apps that show you where EV chargers are located. You can plan your route according to the chargers listed on the app.

Charger Your EV with Apogee Charging Solutions

Electric vehicles are the future and sales are steadily increasing. The biggest challenge for many potential EV drivers is charging options. They worry they won’t be able to keep their batteries fully charged.

EV charging at home with our Level 2 home charger will keep your vehicle ready for your next trip. You can also take advantage of EV charging stations located in many public areas.

If you are ready to learn more about EV charging at home, contact us to see how we can help. Call 484-816-2076, email [email protected], or schedule a call that fits your needs by clicking the button below.