Understanding how to charge an electric vehicle (EV) is critical if you plan to purchase one. Charging an EV is not the same as filling up a gas-powered car. You can’t simply pull up to a gas station and fill it up. EVs require a different charger, one that plugs into the electrical system in your home. There are various kinds of chargers, and each type has its advantages. That’s the reason it’s important to consider what you need when you select a charger. This LFF Technology way, you can choose the decision that best suits your everyday life and driving habits.
How to Assess the Voltage in Your House
However, in order to select the best EV charger for your vehicle, you’ll need to first evaluate the electrical infrastructure in your residence. Most electric cars require a circuit that's rated to handle a certain amount of power, or amperage. That means it’s time to summon an electrician to your home. They will examine your electrical panel, which provides power in your home, to see if it can accommodate the charger you should install. The correct setup ensures that your EV charges safely and effectively.
Choosing the Right Level of Charging
Electric vehicles fall into three basic levels of charge, all of which can be beneficial to you:
Level 1 Charging: A level one charger includes a typical 120-volt home outlet. This ev wall charge is the simplest solution, as you can connect it to any normal outlet, but charging an EV this way can take ages — as much as 20 hours — to achieve a full charge. This is often the best scenario for overnight charging when you don’t need the car.
Level 2 Charging: This is a dedicated 240-volt circuit. Level 2 charging is quicker and can take between a few hours to under a day for your vehicle to be fully charged. This is a good choice if you drive more often or need you car charged in the day.
Level 3 Charging: Also referred to as DC fast charging, this is the fastest option. However, with this system, it can charge an EV within 20 to 30 minutes! But not every electric vehicle supports Level 3 charging, so it’s crucial to verify your vehicle’s specifications prior to opting for this type of charger.
Things to Keep in Mind When Buying a Wall Charger
There are a number of important features to consider when you’re selecting a wall charger for your EV. First and foremost, you must ensure that the charger is suitable for the make and model of your electric vehicle. Some EVs may have different charger requirements than others. Next, think about how quickly you’d like to charge your vehicle. The charging speed will vary based on your EV’s needs and how fast you need it for your next drive.
This is also a good time to consider other aspects. If so, is this ev wall charger a portable charger, a charger that you can carry on the go? Or installed, which means it lives on your wall? Also consider the length of the charging cable — the longer, the more flexible you can be on where you park. Lastly, look for any safety features the charger may include, such as automatic shut-off to prevent overcharging or surge protection, which helps protect your vehicle during storms.
Identifying the Best Wall Charger for You
Now that you know your EV asks of you, you’ve inspected your home’s electrical system, and you know what features to look for in a charger, it’s time to shop for a charger, compare options, and decide which one is best for you. First, find out about chargers that are suitable to your EV. This will allow you to narrow down your options.
Next, consider your charging needs. If you usually drive short distances and only require Level 1 or Level 2 charging, Do you regularly take long trips and require quicker top-ups? Understanding your driving habits is an assist to selecting a charger. Lastly, compare the various features of the chargers you’re thinking about purchasing. Seek the one that serves your best needs. Make sure to hire a licensed electrician to install your charger. This car wall charger is incredibly important, ensuring that it is done safely and correctly, helping to protect both your home and your vehicle.
LFF Technology provides a range of EV wall chargers to suit your needs. Whether you need a Level 1 charger for basic, overnight charging or a Level 2 device with features such as Wi-Fi connectivity and smart charging options, we have something that will suit your lifestyle. All our chargers are suitable for the majority of electric vehicles currently available on the market, are simple to install, and every one of our 'home' chargers comes with a 1 year warranty for peace of mind. Call us now to know more and get the best EV wall charger found for you!