Skip the Pump and go Electric with Bonney and ClipperCreek!

As residents in the larger Sacramento area continue to make this switch to environmentally-friendly automotive options—like electric vehicles—the professionals at Bonney have taken notice. In alignment with our commitment to serving the needs of Sacramento residents, we have adapted our offerings to accommodate EV drivers. 

We are proud to announce a new partnership with ClipperCreek, a worldwide leader in Electric Vehicle supply equipment. Bonney Electrical experts are now certified and able to install Residential EV Charging Stations, letting you re-power your electric vehicle at home.

Why Bonney Chose ClipperCreek

Here at Bonney, we are selective in our partnership with brands and products to ensure the highest quality for our customers. Our experts chose ClipperCreek because it is among the industry’s most trusted brands. Their products are made in America and the company is headquartered just a stone’s throw away in Auburn, California. 

ClipperCreek offers a wide range of products, which affords our customers the opportunity to choose a charging station that accommodates their needs, budgets, vehicles, and driving patterns. Their products are customer-centered, leading the EV charging market in popularity, safety, reliability, and affordability. 

Benefits of Residential EV Charging Stations

When you make the switch to an electric vehicle, you are committing to improving air quality, fighting climate change, and lowering your carbon footprint. However, this switch can feel less rewarding when you are continuously worried about your vehicle’s charge. Here is how a residential EV charging station can improve your experience.

• Inexpensive Charging – When you charge at a public charging station, you will likely pay inflated hourly bills. At-home charging will let you tap into your low, stable residential electricity rates. The US Department of Energy estimates that at-home charging costs just $0.04 for each mile of charge. 
• Convenience – Gone are the days of going out of your way to look for a port and needing to rush back to retrieve your vehicle when it is ready. Instead,  fuel your EV on your own schedule from the convenience of your garage. 
• Federal Tax Credit – Congress recently passed a retroactive federal tax credit for those who purchased environmentally responsible transportation, including costs for EV charging infrastructure. You can receive a federal tax credit of 30% of the cost of purchasing and installing an EV charging station. Click here for details.
• Increased Home Value – Your residential charging station can help boost the value of your home and serve as a selling point when you are ready to move. 
• Peace of Mind – Have you ever found yourself worrying about your range, charge levels, and the safety of public stations? At-home EV charging stations eliminate all of these risks, giving you continuous peace of mind.

Now that you’ve joined the ranks of the environmentally conscious and smart consumers everywhere, make sure you’re fully enjoying the electric vehicle experience. Our Bonney Electrical specialists can help you choose your perfect ClipperCreek charging station and seamlessly complete your installation.

Which EV Charging Station Is Right For Me?

The professionals at Bonney know that each electric vehicle owner has different needs for their EV Charging Station. There are currently two primary EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) options available: Level 1 EVSE and Level 2 EVSE. 

Level 1 EVSE

Also called “trickle” charging stations, Level 1 EVSE units are slower stations designed for more moderate EV needs. Many electric vehicles come with one of these chargers, and drivers may consider buying a second as a backup or replacement. These units use a 120 volt (V) AC plug, and they range in power from 12-20 Amps.

Pros of Level 1 EVSE

• The upfront and operational costs may be lower than a Level 2 unit. 
• These charging stations can plug into a “standard” outlet on a dedicated branch circuit.

Considerations for Level 1 EVSE

• These units take much longer to charge vehicles compared to Level 2 EVSE.
• Level 1 EVSE units provide smaller driving ranges (only 2-5 miles per 1 hour of charging time).
• These units can overwhelm circuits if not connected properly.

Level 1 EVSE installations are ideal for businesses that want to provide a perk for visitors and employees with electric vehicles. It also may be suitable for drivers with short commutes. A Level 2 charger is better suited for drivers who will continuously depend on its charging capacity. 

Level 2 EVSE

A majority of drivers who invest in a Residential Charging Station are looking for the capacity of a Level 2 EVSE. These units use a 240 volt (V) AC plug, and they can vary in power from 12 Amps to 80 Amps.

Pros of Level 2 EVSE

• Level 2 EVSE stations provide faster and more powerful charging.
• These units prove a longer, more sustainable driving range (up to 60 miles per charging hour).
• These units help you save significant amounts of time and money when compared to public charging. 

Considerations for Level 2 EVSE

• The upfront and charging costs of your Level 2 EVSE may be slightly higher than a Level 1, depending on the unit you choose. However, it is still only about 4 cents per mile. 
• Your residence must be able to accommodate the electrical requirements of a Level 2 EVSE (thankfully, the electricians at Bonney can help).

These units are perfect for drivers who heavily rely on the capacity of their electric vehicles.

Choosing Between Level 1 EVSE and Level 2 EVSE

When it comes to choosing an electric vehicle charger, Bonney experts can help you tailor your decision to the needs of your car and your lifestyle. Here are some of the considerations for choosing a charging station:

• Driving Range – Many EV drivers plug in their cars for an overnight charge. When using a Level 1 charger, this may still not accrue enough range for an extended trip. If you have a longer commute that requires an extended driving range, a level 2 charger will likely be necessary. 
• Hybrid or Fully-Electric Vehicle – If you are looking for occasional charging for your plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, a Level 1 charger may provide the boost you need. For a fully-electric vehicle, a Level 2 charger will be more suitable for your driving requirements.
• Battery Size – Smaller electric vehicle batteries may be able to get by with a Level 1 charger, while standard and larger batteries may require a Level 2 EVSE for a sufficient charge. 
• Home Capacity – Careful electrical considerations are required for either type of EVSE. For a Level 1 unit, you need to ensure you are using a dedicated branch circuit. For a Level 2 unit, you need to ensure your electrical panel has the capacity to supply this power. 

While this may seem like an overwhelming amount of considerations, our Bonney experts are here to help. During our free in-home evaluation, a Bonney certified electrician will assess whether your electrical panel has the capacity for a Level 2 charger and advise you on which kind of charger will best meet your needs.

Electric Vehicle At-Home Charging Stations From Bonney

Safety is key when it comes to Residential EV Charging stations. Bonney is here to help with expert installation and professional insight. During your free in-home evaluation you can ask a Bonney expert any questions you may have while we ensure that your building is equipped for a Residential Charging Station. We’ll help you choose the right charging station for your needs, and we will get it safely installed for you in no time.

If you own an electric vehicle and would like the convenience and safety of a Residential EV Charging Station, call us today at 800-444-0551, or request the 5-star certified electricians at Bonney online today!