EV Charging Guide
The government of Canada recently announced that the sale of gas powered cars would be phased out by 2035. If you have an electric vehicle (EV) or are planning on purchasing one, you'll need to consider how you can charge at home. We've written a brief guide on your charging options and the pros and cons of each.
Level 1 Charging
The most basic option, you can plug your EV into a standard 120 volt outlet. This option is slow and can take upwards of 48 hours to fully charge depending on your vehicle, ambient temperature, and battery health. If you're just using your car as a daily driver and plugging it in overnight this can be sustainable. Just don't forget to plug it in when you get home.
Level 2 Charging
Level 2 EV charging utilizes a 240-volt power source, offering faster charging than Level 1, but slower than Level 3. You’ve probably seen these small charging units in apartment buildings and public charging stations. Level 2 chargers provide approximately 10-60 miles of range per hour of charging, depending on the vehicle's battery capacity. This level of charging is perfect for overnight charging at home offering convenience and moderate charging speed.
Level 3 Charging
Level 3 chargers are large, telephone booth-sized units that are usually found in public parking lots.
Also known as DC fast chargers, they operate at high voltage (usually 480 volts or higher), delivering rapid charging.. These chargers can replenish an EV's battery to 80% capacity in as little as 30-40 minutes, making them ideal for long-distance travel and quick top-ups. Overuse of DC fast charging can negatively impact some EV’s battery health.
Battery health and cost are why these units are rarely installed for private use.
Smart Chargers
Smart chargers will regulate their electricity use based on how much power the rest of your house is using, making them a cheap and sustainable charging solution. Although they cost a little more, they are easier on the power grid and can offer data and analytics on your car's charging and battery health.
Installing Your Own Charger
EV chargers for your home are a great way to increase the convenience of an electric vehicle.
If you’re interested in installing an EV charger in your home, send us an email at info@eightyeightelectric.com or give us a call at 250-339-6383.
