Tips for charging electric cars at home and at public stations

Tips for Charging Electric Vehicles at Home and Public Stations 

More and more people are choosing electric vehicles (EVs) due to their eco-friendliness and lower running costs. One of the main advantages of EVs is the ability to charge them at home, but this requires suitable infrastructure. In this article, we explain how home EV charging works, what to consider, and the technical aspects needed to ensure safe and efficient charging.

EV Charging Methods at Home

Electric vehicles can be charged in several different ways:

1. Charging from a standard electrical outlet (Level 1):

Uses a regular 230V socket.

Charging power: ~2.3 kW (10A).

Charging time: 8–24 hours, depending on battery capacity.

Suitable for emergencies but inconvenient for daily use.

2. Charging via a dedicated wall charging station (Wallbox) (Level 2):

Requires a three-phase power connection (400V).

Charging power: 7.4 kW – 22 kW.

Charging time: 3–8 hours.

A more efficient, safer, and convenient solution for households.

3. Fast Charging (DC Charging, Level 3):

Requires a special high-power device, typically used at public stations.

Charging power: 50–350 kW.

Charging time: 15–45 minutes.

Expensive and demands significant electrical capacity, making it impractical for home use.

Technical Requirements for Home Charging

To ensure safe and efficient EV charging, several key aspects must be considered.

1. Electrical installation suitability

Before installing a charging station, inspect the electrical system:

• Capacity: A three-phase connection (400V) allows for higher charging speeds.

• Cable thickness: Minimum recommended copper wire cross-section – 4–6 mm² (depending on charging power).

• Safety devices: It's recommended to use a residual current device (RCD) and a dedicated circuit breaker.

2. Choosing a charging station

When comparing different stations, consider the following:

3. Energy Consumption and Charging Costs

Home EV charging can be more cost-effective than using public stations:

• Average electricity price in Lithuania: ~€0.20/kWh.

• With a 50 kWh battery, one full charge costs about €10.

• If solar power is used, the cost can be nearly zero.

4. Charging Station Installation and Connection

When installing a charging station, it's important to hire qualified electricians who will:

• Evaluate the electrical system’s capacity.

• Select an appropriately powered charging station.

• Ensure safe installation according to local regulations.

How to Optimize Home Charging?

1. Use scheduled charging – many stations allow setting charging times for night hours when electricity is cheaper.

2. Invest in solar panels – this helps reduce electricity costs.

3. Choose a smart charging system – it automatically adjusts power based on grid load.

Conclusion

Home charging is a convenient and cost-effective solution, but it requires appropriate infrastructure. When installing a charging station, it's crucial to assess your power supply capacity, select the right equipment, and ensure safety. Investing in the right station pays off in the long run, making it easier and cheaper to charge your EV at home.