Charging electric cars at home: how does it work?
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Electric vehicles are becoming more common on the roads. Car manufacturers are transitioning to EV production, and governments, including Lithuania, are creating incentives to help drivers switch to electric vehicles faster. The aim to limit global warming, reduce environmental pollution, and shift to renewable energy sources has made EVs a focal point as a solution to these challenges.
However, EV drivers and those planning to switch often have questions, especially about EV charging infrastructure and home charging options. Below, we’ll address the most common questions about home EV charging and what you need to know.
Can You Charge an EV Using a Standard Power Outlet?
Every electric vehicle comes with a charging cable that allows you to charge the car using a standard household power outlet. The charging cable provided by the manufacturer has one end compatible with household outlets and the other end suitable for your EV. So, if you can plug in an iron, vacuum cleaner, or fridge into an outlet, you can also charge your EV using the same outlet.
If the manufacturer did not provide a cable, or if you bought a used car without one, you will need to purchase it separately. EV charging cables typically cost around 150-200 €.
While the idea of charging from any power outlet may seem convenient, it’s not ideal in practice. Charging an EV from a regular outlet is very slow, and more powerful EVs may not fully charge even overnight. Additionally, this method is often referred to as "emergency charging" and is not considered safe for regular use.
Due to the high power demands and long charging times, older electrical systems may not withstand the load, leading to overheating, tripped circuit breakers, and other issues. For regular home charging, it is recommended to install a dedicated EV charging station.
This is not a costly investment; typically, a charging station costs around 350 €, and it significantly simplifies your life.
Home EV Charging Stations
Electric vehicles are becoming more powerful, with larger battery capacities, which means it takes time to fully charge them, especially when using a standard power outlet. In contrast, specialized charging stations allow for higher electrical currents, enabling faster and safer charging of your electric vehicle.
If you plan to install an EV charging station at home, consider several factors. First, decide where to install it. The best location is in the garage. Think about how you park your car, its position, and orientation. Once the station is installed, ensure the charging cable is long enough to reach your EV.
If you don’t have a garage, you can install the charging station outside on a wall or a dedicated post. For outdoor installations, make sure both the station and the charging cable, if purchased separately, are resistant to changing weather conditions. Some devices are more durable than others, so opt for those that can withstand being run over by a car (cable, not the station) and remain functional even in the rain.
Think ahead. If your household has two cars, but only one is currently electric, chances are the second one will also be electric in a few years. Plan for this by installing a charging station capable of charging two vehicles and placing it where it can easily reach both cars.
If you use a dual-rate electricity plan, it makes sense to choose a station or accessories that allow you to set a specific charging schedule. For example, you can start charging when the cheaper nighttime rate begins, saving you money.
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