When you decide to go electric, one of the first questions you'll have to answer is how you're going to charge your car. If you live in Ireland, you have a few different options when it comes to home EV chargers. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of home EV chargers and help you choose the right one for your needs!
Why do you need a Home EV charger?
There are a few advantages of having an exclusive EV charger. Firstly, EVs charge faster with the Level 2 charger, and you'll be able to save time when you own one at home. Instead of waiting at public charging stations, you can charge your car at home at any time. It is particularly beneficial for those who own an electric car with an unsatisfactory range that cannot cover a full time of travel. Also, having an electric vehicle charger at home will help reduce the cost of electricity. A lot of utilities offer time-of use-plans with lower rates for electricity consumed during off-peak times.Additionally, installing a home EV charger Ireland will increase the value of your house. In a location where power outages are frequent, a backup charger can provide peace of mind. In the end, whether you'll need a home EV charger is your choice. However, if you're planning on buying the EV car of your dreams, you should be contemplating the benefits of having a dedicated charger.
How Much Does It Really Cost To Install A Home EV Charger?
Similar to anything else, the price for home EV chargers varies considerably. Some models are cheap, while others are priced at hundreds or even thousands of euros. If you're trying to decide how you'll spend your money, it is important to think about the features you'd like to have and whether you require an extremely powerful charger. It's generally ideal to get the best value for your buck by selecting the charger with every feature you want without breaking the bank.The cost of a home EV charger is based on the kind of charging station. There are three types: Level I, Level II, and Level III. The Level I stations offer the basic and economical option, whereas Level III charging facilities are the priciest but provide the fastest charge.
What is the EV home charger grant Ireland?
The price to install an electric vehicle charge station at home will depend on the type of charger you buy and the possibility of taking advantage of the €600 Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) Home Charging Grant.Usually, the first price of an at-home charging device and installation begins at €950 (or €1099 for most stores. However, at EcoPlex, we supply and install at-home EV chargers for €500.For more details on the SEAI grant, please read the EV grants and incentives guide. It will offer the information needed to apply to the EV grants and other incentives offered in Ireland. You'll be able to get the most affordable home EV charger cost.
How do I choose a home EV charger?
Now that we know the SEAI grant and the benefits of having a home EV charger, let's discuss how to choose the right one. When it comes to home EV chargers, here are some factors to consider in choosing the right home EV charger.
1. Do you think you can charge two EVs at the same time?
The most significant drawback of an attached charger is that you need flexibility. If you've said "no" to this question, perhaps an untethered charging system is the most suitable option. If you cannot locate the two cars within a few meters from the charger, getting an additional EV or having another person who needs to charge is more difficult. There is a chance that you'll require an extended charging cable or an untethered charger might provide a viable alternative.
2. Are design and size important in your home EV charger?
Based on the place which is most appropriate for installing electric car chargers for homes, you may be limited by size or might not be willing to compromise design. The selection of EV home chargers ranges from small plugs barely bigger than the outlet itself to metal boxes larger than a cereal box. Connected chargers tend to be smaller in size and minimalist in design, meaning they're a good choice if you're in search of an elegant and stylish addition to your house.
3. What happens if WiFi isn't able to reach your EV?
If you reside in a region with an insufficient WiFi connection, it might be difficult to avail of some options included on some smart chargers. A disconnected charger from the internet may perform as expected however, you could not receive important information, like the status of your charger. It is crucial to determine the power f your WiFi connection before deciding to buy an internet-connected charger.
4. Do you need home chargers that have built-in earth protection?
Earth rods (long copper rods) are generally placed within the ground around the charger in case the system fails. In certain circumstances, there are times when installing earth rods isn't practical, or you have a beautiful new driveway that you don't want to disrupt. The good thing is that many home chargers come with earth protection making the installation process less difficult.
5. Are you using solar panels or considering getting them?
If you already have solar panels or are looking into buying them, you might prefer the home charger to use this renewable energy source. Certain chargers have solar-powered integrations that permit users to use the energy generated by your solar panels for charging your electric vehicle to assist in reducing the charging costs and help increase the efficiency of your car more sustainably.
6. What's your EV model, and is it equipped with fast charging?
The kind of electric vehicle that you own will affect the home EV charger Ireland that you select. If your car cannot utilize rapid charging, then you don't have to think about buying an efficient charger.However, if your vehicle can charge quickly, it is important to ensure you purchase the charger that will provide enough energy. Some home chargers feature multiple ports that let users charge multiple EVs at the same time.
7. What's your budget for a home EV charger?
When you're deciding on how you'll spend your money, it is important to think about the features you'd like to have and whether you'll need the most powerful charger.
Are all home EV chargers the same?
At a glance, all home EV chargers may appear to be the same. However, there can be big differences between models in terms of cost, performance, and features. When shopping for a home EV charger, it is important to consider your specific needs and budget. For example, some chargers are more powerful than others and can charge your car’s battery faster. Others come with features like built-in WiFi or smartphone apps, which can make the charging process more convenient. Ultimately, there is no “one size fits all” home EV charger, and the best model for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Home EV Charger Installation by EcoPlex
Home EV charger Ireland installation might sound like a daunting task, but EcoPlex makes it easy. We'll work with you to determine the best location for your home EV charger, taking into account factors like accessibility and electrical capacity. Then, we'll handle the installation process from start to finish, ensuring that your home EV charger is up and running smoothly. Since we use only the highest quality products, you can rest assured that your home EV charger will provide years of trouble-free service. So if you're ready to take the plunge into home EV charging, contact EcoPlex today. We'll make sure that the experience is as hassle-free as possible.