What Kind Of EV Charging Station Is Right For Me?

When driving in and around Sacramento, you have likely seen electric vehicles and their charging stations becoming increasingly popular over the last few years. If you drive an electric vehicle yourself, you probably know the joys of affordable and sustainable transportation as well as the hassle of public charging. Bonney is here to help you make the most of your electric vehicle by offering simple and affordable residential charging solutions. 

Forget the days of struggling to find an open station, worrying about your vehicle while you’re away, stressing over your driving range, and overpaying for a full charge. The team at Bonney has partnered with ClipperCreek to bring affordable and convenient charging stations directly to homes in the greater Sacramento area. The first step towards waking up each morning with a full battery is deciding which EV charger is right for you. Our Bonney electrical experts are here with the insight you need on residential EV charging options.

What Kind of At-Home Charging Stations Are Available?

Residential electric vehicle charging stations are commonly referred to as EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment). The two distinguished EVSE models include Level 1 EVSE and Level 2 EVSE. Each of these unit types provides effective and affordable EV charging for homes. The difference is in the speed and power of charging they offer. Here is what you need to know about choosing between Level 1 and Level 2 EVSE units. 

Everything You Need to Know About Level 1 EVSE

If you have an electric vehicle, chances are you are familiar with Level 1 EVSE. These units offer low operational costs and affordable upfront pricing. Most electric vehicles come with a Level 1 EVSE charger included. These stations charge at an average of 2.5 miles of driving range per 1 hour of charging. 

If you happen upon free EV charging at work or while visiting a business, chances are that you are using a Level 1 EVSE. These charging stations use less electricity than a professional charging station or a Level 2 EVSE. Level 1 units operate through a 120 volt (V) AC plug, so they can connect to a “standard” outlet on a dedicated branch circuit. 

Is a Level 1 EVSE Right For Me? 

Level 1 residential stations are perfect for a variety of EV charging needs:

• Backup and emergency power
• Replacements for your original unit
• Low-distant commuters
• Hybrid vehicle drivers looking for an extra boost
• Businesses hoping to offer free electric vehicle charging

It is important to note that you may still need to use a high-power charging station for longer commutes, as Level 1 EVSE units are designed for moderate needs. If you are looking for something more powerful and sustainable, a Level 2 EVSE may be right for you.

Everything You Need To Know About Level 2 EVSE

Level 2 EVSE units offer a charging experience similar to those you may find at professional stations. The difference? These units let you access this professional charging from the convenience of your home. Level 2 EVSE stations also provide this fast and sustainable charging at an affordable rate. 

These charging stations save you time by offering up to 60 miles of driving range per charging hour. They also save you money by tapping into your home’s low electric rates while eliminating any extra costs and upcharges associated with public charging stations. While the exact costs vary based on your vehicle and the rates in your area, The Department of Energy estimates that gasoline costs 7.8 cents per mile while electric vehicle charging costs about .04 cents per mile. By connecting to a 240 volt (V) AC plug, these units offer extended driving ranges and up to 80 Amps of power. 

Is a Level 2 EVSE Right For Me?

Level 2 residential vehicle charging stations are perfect for a variety of EV situations:

• Drivers with longer commutes
• Fully-electric vehicles that require consistent charging
• Commuters with fast charging needs
• Maintaining the needs of larger batteries

Installing a Level 2 EVSE station accommodates light, moderate, and heavy charging needs. Your charging station and the cost of installation may qualify for a federal tax credit. In addition, adding the 240 V plug can improve your home’s retail value and provide a popular selling point when you are ready to move.

How to Get a Residential EV Charging Station

If you have or are purchasing a Level 1 EVSE unit, the primary electrical consideration involves making sure you are connecting to a dedicated branch circuit. When too many appliances are connected to the same circuit, you risk blowing a fuse, overheating your appliances, and causing trouble with your electric system. A Bonney electrician can ensure that your home is equipped for a new Level 1 EVSE. Our experts will also help you decide on a new system that meets all of your needs and your budget.

For a Level 2 EVSE, you will need to ensure that your home is equipped with a 240 V plug. These are rarely included in your home, but they are easy for an electrician to install. The electricians at Bonney offer free in-home evaluations to help you understand your charging station capacity and installation needs. Our experts are skilled in each step of this process, making the residential charging station purchase and installation a breeze.

Residential Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in Sacramento

If you are ready to get the power of electric vehicle charging from the convenience of your home, the experts at Bonney are here for you. Bonney Electrical professionals offer free in-home evaluations for the greater Sacramento area, including Folsom, Natomas, Orangevale, North Highlands, West Sacramento, Woodland, Rocklin, Placerville, Carmichael, Auburn, Elk Grove, Fair Oaks, Davis, Cameron Park, Newcastle, and beyond. 

We will work with you one-on-one to help you understand what your home needs to accommodate a residential charging station as well as which type of station is right for you. Our partnership with ClipperCreek means that we can help you get the charger you need at a price you can afford. Make an appointment with Bonney today to get started!