It’s no secret that electric vehicles are becoming increasingly common on the roads, and as they become more popular, the need for places to charge them increases as well. You may have seen these charging stations cropping up at malls, workplaces and neighborhoods, and you may even have one in your home. Charging up an electric car, whether it’s at home or at public stations, comes with its own set of pluses, a minor drawback, and some surprises.
Benefits of Plugging In
Perhaps the single largest benefit to being able to connect to an EV charger at home is convenience. You can wake up every morning with a full charge and never have to make a detour to a gas station. This can save you time and effort, especially if you drive regularly.
Since electricity is usually less expensive than gasoline, filling up your EV can save you money overall. It will depend on the price of electricity in your area and how much you drive, but many EV owners are able to reduce their energy costs.
The Flip Side
However, that doesn’t mean that EV chargers are all unicorns and rainbows. One of the biggest cons is charging time. Contrast that with the fact it takes only minutes to fill a gas tank. This is especially true if you’re using a Level 2 charger.
What You Likely Don’t Expect
One surprising aspect may be a community that forms around some EV owners. Charging stations can be a place where EV drivers meet, swap tips, or lend a hand to one another. You could even chat with someone while you both wait for your cars to charge, exchanging anecdotes about your wheels or charging experience. This community bond is not something you often come across at a gas station.
EV charging technology is always evolving. It’s a trend driven in part by technological advancement. We’re getting faster charging speeds, more efficient chargers, and smarter integration with the power grid. For example, certain newer chargers can modify their charging rate according to electricity prices or the needs of the electric grid. This could save you even more money and help to balance energy demand. And because these improvements are ongoing, the experience of using an EV charger is poised to continue improving and become ever simpler over the years ahead — an unexpected bonus.
If you have an EV charger at home, you must regularly schedule professional maintenance. Routine maintenance can help prevent small problems from becoming big (and expensive) ones down the line and keep you riding with access to a reliable power source. Contact Absolute Electrical Heating and Air in Denver, CO for general inquiries and to schedule EV charger maintenance service.
