Electric Vehicle Home Recharging Station Info
It’s no secret that making the switch to a plug-in hybrid or electric vehicle comes with plenty of benefits. In addition to having access to instantaneous acceleration and a quiet ride, perhaps the biggest appeal is never having to visit a gas station ever again. From convenience, financial, and environmental standpoints, relying solely on electricity to power your vehicle can make sense for many drivers.
One of the most common concerns of potential EV shoppers is the cost of installing a charging station in their home garage. Fortunately, the process is fairly straightforward and requires only a few factors to consider prior to installation. The Germain Motor Company has created this informative guide that explains the types of home charging stations, the installation process, and their typical costs. Once you learn how simple having a home charging station installed in your garage can be, the only thing you’ll have to worry about is what your first electric vehicle will be!
Home Charging Station Types
Level 1 Charging
The most common type of home charging solution is known as Level 1 EVSE which offers charging via a 120 volt (V) AC plug. Typically, Level 1 charging adds about 2 to 5 miles of range to a vehicle per hour of charging time. Aside from an outlet, Level 1 often does not require specialized equipment aside from a dedicated branch circuit. Although your needs may vary, Level 1 charging is best suited for plug-in hybrid models for overnight charging situations. Virtually all EVs include a portable Level 1 EVSE cordset that can plug into a standard three-prong household outlet.
Level 2 Charging
Owners of EVs or those looking for a faster charging experience should consider installing a Level 2 station at their home. Using a 240V AC plug, Level 2 can add about 10 to 60 miles of range to a vehicle per hour of charging time, making it suitable for all EVs. However, Level 2 charging does require a dedicated electrical circuit of 20 to 100 amps along with other specialized equipment.
The good news is that most homes already have 240V service for larger appliances like clothes dryers or electric ranges, although some may not. Since installing a home charging station must comply with local, state, and national codes and regulations, be sure to work with a licensed electrical contractor. Most stations are installed inside a garage, although some specialized freestanding outdoor stations are available.
Multi-Unit Charging Stations
Just because you live in an apartment or multi-unit dwelling doesn’t mean that you have to miss out on the EV ownership experience! Landlords and building owners have found that installing a multi-unit EV charging station to be a great way to retain tenants and do their part to protect our environment. Due to the rise in electric vehicle ownership, consider searching for an apartment that offers an EV charging station.
Home Charging Station Installation Cost
In general, the cost of installing a Level 2 240V home charging station typically ranges between $500 to $2,000. However, you could potentially qualify for additional state or federal tax incentives that can help offset the installation cost. Also, some manufacturers offer discounts on home charging station installation with the purchase of a vehicle. When you consider the convenience and cost-savings compared to gasoline, adding a home charging station to your garage is certainly an attractive option.
There’s also a wide range of specialized features available to add to your home charging station for an additional cost. Examples include enhanced displays, charging timers, smartphone connections, and keypads. All home charging stations will come equipped with basic safety features and status lights.
Still need more help or information to help you decide which home charging solution is right for you? You’ll find a team of EV experts at many of our Germain Motor Company locations across the country.