Home vs. Commercial Charging Stations: Which One Is Better for Your EV?
If you own an electric vehicle (EV), you might wonder whether it is better to charge it at home or at a public charging station. The answer depends on several factors, such as the cost, convenience, speed, and availability of each option. In this blog, we will compare the pros and cons of home and commercial charging stations, and help you decide which one suits your needs best.
Cost Comparison of Home or Commercial EV Chargers
One of the main advantages of charging an EV at home is that it is generally cheaper than charging at a public station. According to a 2017 report, a person charging an EV at home pays an average of $0.11 per kWh, while a public charging station costs an average of $0.17 per kWh1. To fully refuel a car with a 90-kWh battery-among the largest batteries available today-would add less than 13 dollars to a monthly electric bill. That is very cheap, especially compared to the cost of gasoline for a similar car.Â
ÂHowever, the cost of charging at home may vary depending on your electricity rate, which can differ across the country and even by the time of day. Some utilities may offer special rates or incentives for EV owners, while others may charge more during peak hours. You should check your personal rate and compare it to the long-term gas prices in your area to see how much you can save by charging at home.
ÂOn the other hand, the cost of charging at a public station may also vary depending on the type, location, and operator of the station. Some public stations may offer free or discounted charging for certain EV models, while others may charge a premium for faster or more convenient service. Some public stations may charge by the kWh, while others may charge by the minute or by the session. You should check the pricing and terms of the station before you plug in, and avoid stations that charge too much or too little for the amount of energy you need.
 If you own an electric vehicle (EV), you might wonder whether it is better to charge it at home or at a public charging station. The answer depends on several factors, such as the cost, convenience, speed, and availability of each option. In this blog, we will compare the pros and cons of home and commercial charging stations, and help you decide which one suits your needs best.
Factor in Convenience with Electric VehiclesÂ
Another advantage of charging an EV at home is that it is more convenient than charging at a public station. You can simply plug in your EV when you park at night, and have it fully charged and ready to go in the morning. You don't have to worry about finding a station, waiting in line, or paying for the service. You also have more control over the timing and duration of your charging, and can adjust it according to your schedule and needs.
However, charging an EV at home may require some upfront investment and installation. If you want to charge your EV faster than using a standard 120-volt outlet, you may need to install a Level 2 home charger, which usually costs between $500-$1,200 and requires a 240-volt outlet. You may also need to hire a licensed electrician to do the wiring and ensure the safety and compliance of your home charging system. You should check the requirements and costs of installing a home charger before you buy an EV, and see if you can get any rebates or incentives from your utility or government.
On the other hand, charging at a public station may be more convenient if you don't have access to a home charger, or if you need to travel long distances or in unfamiliar areas. You can use a public station to top up your battery when you are running low, or to extend your range when you are on a road trip. You can also use a public station to take advantage of faster charging speeds, such as DC fast charging, which can replenish your battery up to hundreds of miles in less than 30 minutes. You should check the availability and location of public stations along your route, and use a mobile app or a navigation system to find and access them.
EV Charging Speed and Levels
One of the main disadvantages of charging an EV at home is that it is slower than charging at a public station. Using a standard 120-volt outlet, also known as Level 1 charging, can take up to 20 hours to fully charge a typical EV2. Even using a Level 2 home charger, which can deliver up to 240 volts, can take up to 8 hours to fully charge a large battery. This means that you may not be able to fully charge your EV overnight, or that you may have to limit your driving during the day.
However, charging an EV at home may be fast enough for your daily needs, especially if you have a plug-in hybrid or a small battery. Most EVs can travel between 200 to 300 miles on a single charge, which is more than enough for most drivers. If you only drive a few dozen miles per day, you may not need to charge your EV every night, or you may only need to charge it for a few hours. You should check the battery size and range of your EV, and see how much you need to charge it to meet your driving needs.
On the other hand, the cost of charging at a public station may also vary depending on the type, location, and operator of the station. Some public stations may offer free or discounted charging for certain EV models, while others may charge a premium for faster or more convenient service. Some public stations may charge by the kWh, while others may charge by the minute or by the session. You should check the pricing and terms of the station before you plug in, and avoid stations that charge too much or too little for the amount of energy you need.
Availability & Access of EV Charging Stations Near You
Another disadvantage of charging an EV at home is that it may not be available for everyone. If you live in an apartment, a condo, or a rented house, you may not have access to a dedicated parking spot, a power outlet, or a home charger. You may have to share a charger with other residents, or rely on your landlord or property manager to install and maintain a charger. You may also face some challenges or restrictions from your homeowners association, your utility, or your local government. You should check the availability and feasibility of charging an EV at home before you buy one, and see if you can get any permission or support from your stakeholders.
Research EV Charging Options Near You
Whether your interested in a EV charging at home or at a public station has its own benefits and drawbacks, and the best option depends on your personal situation and preference. Charging an EV at home is generally cheaper and more convenient than charging at a public station, but it may also be slower and less available. Charging an EV at a public station is generally faster and more available than charging at home, but it may also be more expensive and less convenient. You should weigh the pros and cons of each option, and see which one works better for you and your EV. Stop by Landers Ford at 2082 W Poplar Ave, Collierville, TN 38017 to explore the best new electric vehicles near you.