Over the years, individuals and families have increasingly transitioned from petrol cars to electric vehicles (also known as EVs). However, many EV owners and potential buyers have questions about these cars and EV chargers.
EV owners enjoy their vehicles’ convenience and energy efficiency, but they often don’t realise the full potential of their purchase. Whether you intend to purchase or already own an electric car, you’ll want to know as much about it as possible.
Benefits of Having an EV and Charger
With an EV and charger, you can charge your car battery even when you’re not on the road. Using public and personal charging stations, you can ensure your vehicle runs at peak performance at all times. There are many clear benefits to having an EV charger:
- Eco-friendly transportation. Electric cars provide transportation that promotes a healthy, safe environment. You never have to worry about harmful tailpipe emissions.
- Convenience. A trained technician at Haley Electrical Services can install in-home charging points using AC household wall boxes explicitly designed for electric vehicles. Simply plug in your EV before bed and wake up to find it ready to go.
- Financial incentives. Depending on where you live, you may receive financial incentives to purchase an EV and get an EV charger installation job. Research your local area to see how you can save on electric car costs.
Questions About EV Chargers
Many EV owners have questions about their vehicle and the best charging practices. Below, we discuss some of the most common things people ask.
Can I charge my EV using a regular power outlet?
The short answer is yes—you can charge your EV using a regular outlet. Your vehicle comes with a standard three-prong charging cable that you can connect to any outlet. We call this a trickle charge.
Trickle charging takes longer to charge your EV than other methods. This doesn’t require installing a designated charging station, but it may increase your electric bill. At Haley Electrical Services we recommend having one of our highly trained technicians streamline the charging process by installing a home charger.
How long does it take to charge my EV?
The time it takes to charge your electric vehicle varies widely depending on the type of charging you use. Some public stations also prioritise ease of access over speed or vice versa.
If you plan to charge your vehicle overnight using a regular outlet, you can expect to wait 14 to 16 hours. It may take three to five hours to charge your EV for extended stops at designated charging points. However, charging your car with a DC charge takes only 20 to 30 minutes.
Where can I charge my electric vehicle?
With electric vehicle chargers, you have many charging options. You can use DC charges at a public station, AC charges using at-home or workplace charging, or trickle charges using the plug that comes standard with your vehicle.
How much do EV charger installations cost?
You can get £350 off your home charge point installation through the Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV). It costs £4.11–£9.98 to charge your EV at home, depending on the vehicle’s make and model.
Can I do an EV charger installation myself?
Unless you’re a registered electrician like Haley Electrical Services, don’t install a home charging station on your own. Contact a professional to ensure the job gets done efficiently, thoroughly, and with the least possible risk.
EV Charger Installations You Can Trust
At Haley Electrical Services, we provide the highest quality, reliable EV charger installations for homes and businesses. Our experienced staff have in-depth knowledge about EV chargers and can help you make the most of your investment. Call us at 03308 281598 to schedule your charging point installation today!
