Electric cars are becoming a thing and our area is no exception. The benefits of electric cars, especially for local transportation are significant. As prices continue to drop on electric vehicles, the cost/benefit ration climbs. Even now, over the life of the car, you can expect a great return on investment and help reduce exhaust emissions.
Just like any other vehicle, you need to provide power to make it go. And while you use gasoline to power a standard vehicle, electric vehicles (EVs) need to have their internal battery recharged. Recharging a family electric vehicle can be accomplished in one of three ways.
- Level 1: a home outlet (120v, comes with the vehicle)
- Level 2: a special home charger that is connected to a 240v connection and
- Level 3: a commercial charger (prohibitively expensive and limited to commercial applications)
Now level 1 may sound good because there’s nothing else to buy. However, it can take quite a while to recharge and you may need a quicker turn around than a level 1 charger provides. In that case, a level 2 charger may be just what you’re looking for. Level 2 chargers connect to a 240v supply much like some larger appliances and can charge your EV up to 10-12 times faster than a level 1. Sounds like a good deal, right?
It is but you’ll need to invest a bit more in order to get one. Level 2 chargers are more expensive for sure but the good news is that prices continue to fall as EVs become more common. The second hurdle you’ll likely find is that unless you’re a trained electrician, the installation is probably too dangerous for the average DIYer to do. As with any other type of home electrical project, if you don’t know what you’re doing, please don’t try it.
At Mr. Electric of West Central North Carolina, we have trained professionals that can provide you a perfect installation for your Level 2 Charging Station. If you need a faster charging system for your vehicle or you are thinking about purchasing an electric car sometime soon, contact Mr. Electric today and be ready to take maximum advantage of your ride. We can services residences in Chapel Hill, NC and the surrounding areas of southwest North Carolina. Call today and schedule your installation. Don’t forget about a home electrical inspection as well!
