With rising energy costs, a growing number of Scots are switching from petrol and diesel vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs). The simplicity and affordability of modern EVs has made them increasingly popular. This has also caused a surge in demand for residential EV charging stations so that EV owners can charge their vehicles more efficiently instead of plugging them directly into a wall socket. Like many other EV owners, you may be wondering if you should also install an EV charger in your home. Continue reading to learn if an EV charger is right for you and our expert recommendations.
What are Electric Vehicle Chargers?
Electric vehicle chargers are the most important consideration when owning an electric vehicle. They provide the necessary power for electric cars to be able to function. Without them, EVs would not be able to travel long distances. So it is important for owners to know how EV chargers work and how to use them properly.
Types of EV Chargers
While there are many manufacturers and styles of EV chargers to choose from, the most important consideration is the type of charger you purchase. There are two types of EV chargers you can use in your home:
Level 1 Charger
A Level 1 charger is the slower option and typically comes as an accessory with the purchase of an electric vehicle. It uses standard household outlets and electric currents around 110-120 volts. This means that for every hour you charge your vehicle, you can expect only 3 to 5 kilometres of driving range.
Level 2 Charger
For a much more efficient option, Level 2 chargers are recommended. Typically, most Level 2 chargers are hardwired into your home's electric system and are permanent fixtures. They are also suitable to be outdoors exposed to the elements if your home does not have a covered garage. Even though these chargers can be costly, they can save you hundreds of hours of charging time and can possibly extend the life of your battery. It is also important to note that there are some Level 2 chargers on the market that are portable, but they are not intended for extended use because they can wear down easily and cause safety concerns.
Installing a Level 2 Electric Vehicle Charger
Since Level 2 chargers need to be hardwired, it is recommended to hire a certified electrician to install an electric vehicle charger in your home. A skilled electrician is responsible for ensuring that the charger is plugged into an appropriate power source, that it's secured in place, and that it's connected to the grid properly. There are many significant risks to attempting to install an EV charger yourself, such as getting hurt or damaging your car, so it is best to avoid them.
A certified EV installer also needs to know how to operate the charging unit, including how to monitor for faults or malfunctions. If there is a problem with the installation or operation of a charger, they should be able to fix it as well as identify what caused it.
EV Charger Installer in West of Scotland
As certified and accredited electricians, Abbey Services has installed many EV chargers in homes for vehicle makes such as Tesla, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Volkswagen, BMW, Citroen, Peugeot and many more. We understand the importance of having a reliable charging system in your home and will ensure your new EV charger will perform as expected.
Ready to Schedule an Installation?
If you are ready to schedule your EV charger installation, or have any questions, please give us a call at 0141 887 9411 or email info@abbeyservices.co.uk. Our friendly staff is ready to help you.