Whether you’ve recently become the proud owner of an electric vehicle, or you’re planning to make the switch, welcome! Embracing clean, sustainable transportation is a fantastic choice. And never having to visit a petrol station again is a game-changer!
We’re here to help make sure your EV charging experience is as seamless and hassle-free as possible. So we’ve put together a list of the top 10 tips for charging your electric vehicle at home effectively.
Let’s get started!
#1 - Park and Charge in the Shade
Temperature matters. Just like if you leave your phone out in the sun for too long, high temperatures can have a detrimental effect on the longevity of your EV’s battery life. If possible, make sure that you have a shaded place to park your electric vehicle at home.
#2 - Charge Overnight for Cheaper Power
Electricity rates often fluctuate throughout the day, with different rates for peak and off-peak use. Check your electricity plan to find out what tariff you’re on, then charge your EV accordingly. Power prices are typically cheaper overnight, so it can be good to get into the habit of plugging your electric vehicle in overnight so that it’s juiced up and ready to roll in the morning.
One exception is if you’ve got solar panels. If that’s you, check out our bonus tip at the end of this article!
#3 - Have a Charging Plan in Place
Are you planning on charging your EV at home? Or will you be depending on public chargers at your workplace?
Whatever your plan, it’s a good idea to have it figured out BEFORE your EV arrives. Once your shiny new electric vehicle is in the driveway, the last thing you want to be doing is stressing about how you’re going to re-charge it. You want to be able to hit the road straight away and enjoy those emission-free miles!
#4 - Figure Out What Charger Works For YOU
There are 3 common options for EV chargers. You’ve got the simple but effective 10Amp plug, the dedicated single-phase charger (a.k.a. The Sweet Spot), and speedy 3-phase chargers. Each option allows for different charging speeds at a different price point.
It’s all about how YOU will use your electric car. Find out ‘What’s the Perfect EV Charger for My Home Charging Needs?’
#5 - Understand Your Range
Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to driving your electric vehicle with confidence. Understanding your EV’s range is crucial to avoid unexpected charging dilemmas. Different types of weather and terrain can also affect how many kilometers you’ll get out of your vehicle, so it won’t be exactly the same every time.
Don’t get caught out underestimating your car’s range.
#6 - Carry a Back-Up Charger
But if you DO get caught out, make sure you’ve got a back-up plan. If you find yourself stuck at a friend’s place without any battery life, you can use a 10Amp charger to plug into a normal power outlet. This will get you enough charge to get going again, even if it takes a few hours.
So stick a spare 10Amp charger in your boot in case of emergency.
#7 - Don’t Fully Drain or Overcharge Your Battery
Aim to recharge your battery when it’s at around 30%. Avoid fully draining the battery, as doing so can have a negative impact on its lifespan. Keeping your battery in this optimal range will ensure it serves you well for years to come.
On the flip side, don’t overcharge your battery either! Best practice is to charge your battery to about 80% capacity, as this is a sweet spot that also allows you to make use of regenerative braking.
#8 - Use Fast Chargers, But Only When You Need Them
Fast chargers are great! They can charge an EV’s battery to 80% in 20-40 minutes, which is ideal for long road trips. But using them frequently will wear out your battery more quickly.
So use fast chargers sparingly.
#9 - Plan Ahead for Long Trips
Speaking of long road trips, as an EV owner it pays to plan ahead. If you’re heading off down the Great Ocean Road at the crack of dawn, make sure your battery is fully charged the night before. There’s nothing worse than being stuck at home because SOMEONE forgot to plug the car in yesterday…
There are also apps you can download that allow you to plan your route depending on the availability of charging stations. They’ll also let you know if a particular charger is in use, or if you’re better off driving onto the next small town.
#10 - Choose a Reliable EV Charger Installer
When it comes to installing a charger at home, it's crucial to choose an installer who takes pride in their work. Finding an installer who’ll ensure everything is working correctly, answer any questions you may have AND tidies up after themselves is a must.
At Kenner Electrics, we're ready to make the process of getting an EV charger for your home as easy as possible.
Bonus Tip: Check Your Ride
Your tire pressure can have an impact on your electric vehicles’ efficiency. Regularly making sure your tires are fully inflated will help your EV’s battery last longer, so you’ll get extra miles per charge.
Extra Green Tip: Power Your Charger with Solar Panels
If you're looking for an even greener driving experience, consider powering your charger with solar panels. Smart EV chargers can be programmed to charge your EV when the sun is out, taking your commitment to sustainability to the next level.
Trusted EV Charger Installation in Melbourne
When it comes to getting an Electric Vehicle (EV) charger installed in your Melbourne home, Kenner Electrics is the way to go. We take immense pride in doing things right and we genuinely care about making our customers happy. So, if you're thinking about getting an EV charger, give Kenner Electrics a shout. You'll be in safe hands for a smooth and reliable charging experience.
So What Are You Waiting For?
By following these 10 essential tips, you'll be on your way to a seamless and efficient EV charging experience. Charging your EV at home can be both convenient and cost-effective, and with the right approach, you can enjoy the benefits of clean driving without any hiccups. So, charge up, hit the road, and contribute to a more sustainable future!
