When you own an electric vehicle, charging is part of your normal routine. For many homeowners, that means driving to a public charging station and waiting until their battery is good to go. But you can skip the waits and start charging your vehicle directly at home with your own EV charging station.
If you’re interested in going this route, here are the top pros and cons of deciding to install your own EV charging station as opposed to public charging.
Pros of Home EV Chargers
A home EV station gives you the convenience and reliability of electric vehicle charging whenever you need it. You can simply plug your vehicle in overnight or while you wait inside. This means no more wasting miles to commute to the charging station and drive back. The decreased mileage may not seem like much at first, but it can add up to a significant savings over the course of a year.
Charging at home can lead to more savings, too, since you don’t have to pay for public charges regularly.
Another benefit of a home EV station is having greater control over your vehicle’s charge. Most modern systems allow you to set specifications tailored to your model’s battery. This ultimately helps preserve the life span of the battery and keep your vehicle running perfectly for years.
Cons of Home EV Chargers
The cost of installation can be a deterrent for some homeowners. You will have to pay a professional to wire your vehicle’s charging station and ensure that your electrical system has enough power to support it.
Pulling enough electricity to charge an EV battery will also increase your monthly electricity bills. This is an important consideration before investing in your own charger. Remember, however, that you would be paying this expense somewhere else.
Home charging is also usually slower than public charging stations, so this may be a problem if you forget to plug in your vehicle or are in a hurry.
Pros and Cons of Public EV Charging Stations
Let’s quickly address the advantages and potential drawbacks of relying solely on public chargers for your EV.
Pros of Pubic Charging Stations
- Most areas have easy access to charging stations.
- Growing availability gives you peace of mind on the road.
- Fast charging options help you recharge more quickly.
- Some stations rely on green energy to charge vehicles.
Cons of Public Charging Stations
- You may have to wait to charge your vehicle.
- Pricing can vary greatly from one station to the next.
- You may not always have a station available near you.
- Many stations require memberships or subscriptions, which can be costly.
The decision to install a home EV charger is a wise one for many homeowners. With greater freedom and control, you can keep your electric vehicle powered up for anything.
If you’re ready to get your own home EV charger in Boise, ID, contact our professionals at Sublime Electric today!