If you’re like most people, you want to do your part to help the environment. You may have even made the switch to an electric vehicle (EV) to reduce your carbon footprint. But what about charging your EV? How many amps does your home charging station really need? In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of EV charging connectors and how many amps each one requires. We will also provide tips on how to install an EV charging point in your home.
Charging your electric vehicle (EV) at your home is easy and allows you to drive electric vehicles easier than ever. Home charging for electric vehicles gets more efficient when you upgrade from an outlet that is 110 volts to a more powerful, 24V “Level 2” home charger that will increase the range from up to 60 miles range per hour of charging. A faster charger will help to maximize EVs and use electricity for more local and long-distance trips.
HOW MANY AMPS DOES YOUR HOME CHARGING STATION REALLY NEED?
If you’re considering installing a home charging station for your electric vehicle, one of the first questions you’ll need to answer is how many amps your station will need. The answer depends on a few factors, including the type of car you have and how fast you want to charge it.
The majority of EVs can take in around 32 amps and add about 25 miles of range per Hour of Charging, so an electric charger with 32 amps is an ideal choice for various electric vehicles. You might also wish to speed up your charging or prepare for your next vehicle with an even faster 50-amp charger that can provide about 37 miles in one hour.
To figure out the right amp rating for your situation, it’s best to consult with an electrician or someone who specializes in installing home charging stations.
Once you’ve determined how many amps your home charging station will need, you can begin shopping for the right model. There are a variety of stations on the market, so be sure to compare features and prices before making your final decision. With a little research, you can find the perfect home charging station for your electric vehicle.
TYPES OF EV CHARGING CONNECTORS
The types of EV charging connectors can be classified into three categories: Level 1, Level 2, and Direct Current (DC) fast charging. The primary difference between the three categories is the input voltage. Level 1 is 110/120 volts, Level 2 uses 208/240 volts, and DC fast chargers run the range between 200 and 600 voltages. Many manufacturers make chargers, offering a range of products and various prices, applications, and functionality.
Level 1
The Level-1 charging method is cost-effective and uses the standard 110-V outlet. It allows electric vehicle drivers to utilize the charging cords that come with most electric vehicles nearly everywhere. The charging process is the longest and provides an additional, emergency, or backup charge solution.
Level 1 charging could be an effective solution for multi-unit dwellings (MUDs) including condominiums, apartment complexes, and certain workplaces. In MUD settings, most level 1 charging takes place from existing 110-volt outlets in the parking area or private garages/carports owned by residents. If new charging facilities are planned with higher power output, a circuit with 240-V is usually more affordable since it provides a higher charging capacity for an equal installation cost.
Level 1 charging power output differs somewhat, but typically in the range of 12 amps and 16 amps in continuous output. At these output levels, the Level 1 charger can provide approximately 3.5 and 6.5 miles of range per hour of charging. These charging rates are suitable for those who drive less than 30-45 miles daily and use the charger all night long.
Most electric vehicles have a manufacturer-branded Level 1 cord inside the trunk. A handful of third-party manufacturers offer Level 1 chargers, and the majority are intended to be used by homeowners.
Level 2
Level 2 chargers are common options for residential and commercial or workplace settings. Most of them have more power than the Level 1 chargers and offer additional functionality that isn’t available on the Level 1 chargers. In general, Level 2 chargers can be distinct from non-networked chargers and networked chargers.
Non-networked Level 2 Chargers
Non-networked Level 2 chargers that aren’t networked are utilized in single-family homes and MUDs. They could be designed for outdoor or indoor use (e.g., NEMA 3R, NEMA 6P, NEMA 4X rated) and typically produce between 16 and 40 amps of power output which could provide up to 14 and 35 miles range in of electric range per hour of charging.
They perform the same function in the same way as level 1 chargers. But, if an electrical permit is required to set up a specific circuit to charge EVs in the majority of cases, it’s an advantage to include a 240-volt circuit for charging at Level 2.
These chargers are ideal for installation in commercial or MUDs powered by subpanels for tenants or residents. In this situation, all energy used by chargers will be billed to the user’s electric bill, not having to measure the chargers. Furthermore, if electricity capacities are available, non-networked Level 2 chargers are ideal for site hosts who require greater capacity than Level 1 charging but don’t have a huge budget.
Networked Chargers
While networked chargers may be utilized in single-family residences, they are typically used in work environments where payment is needed or at MUDs where the electric bill is shared by many residents. They could be designed for outdoor or indoor use (e.g., NEMA 3R, NEMA 6P, NEMA 4X rated). Networked Level 2 chargers as non-networked chargers do, generally deliver up to sixteen and 40 amps of power which could provide anywhere between fourteen and 35 miles range in an hour of charging, and its power consumption is often adjustable.
Direct Current (DC) fast charging
DC speed chargers can be among the most powerful EV chargers currently available. They are often employed as range extenders on major routes for long-distance travel and in urban areas to help drivers with no charging at home or extremely high mileage drivers. The majority of DC fast chargers available on the market have a charge that ranges from 25 to 50kW. Based on current charging rates, they are perfect for locations where people are expected to stay for 30 minutes or an hour, including eating places, recreation areas, and shopping malls.
The current readily available DC speed chargers need inputs that are at least 480 Volts and 100 amps (50-60 kW) and can produce a full charge for an electric vehicle equipped with a 100-mile range battery in a little more than thirty mins (178 miles per hour for electric driving). However, the newer versions of DC fast chargers are beginning to gain popularity and are capable of producing between 150 and 350 kW in power.
HOW TO CHOOSE A HOME EV CHARGER
When choosing a home EV charger, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider what type of connector you need. Second, decide if you want a Level 1 or Level 2 charger. And finally, think about the amperage that you need. With these things in mind, you’ll be able to find the perfect charger for your home electric vehicle.
NEED EV CHARGING POINT INSTALLATION? ECOPLEX CAN HELP.
If you’re in need of EV charging point installation, EcoPlex can help.
We offer a wide range of EV charging point options to suit your needs. Our team of trained professionals can help you choose the right option for your home or business. We also offer EV charger installation and maintenance services, so you can be sure your charger is always operating at peak efficiency.
Contact us today to learn more about our EV charging point options and how we can help you choose the right option for your needs.
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