Photo by Ralf Hahn/iStock Photo
Charging is a crucial concern among new electric vehicle (EV) owners, whether they drive a plug-in hybrid or a full electric vehicle. Fear of inconvenience is one of the biggest barriers to the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. Many drivers are concerned that there aren’t enough public charging stations in the area––and even if there are public charging stations nearby, can an EV owner rely on them when they need to refuel?
An EV charging station at home can solve many of these challenges. But are EV charging systems at home safe? Absolutely—as long as they’re installed and used correctly. Your cooperative and a licensed electrician can evaluate your home to make sure your wiring complies with local, state and national codes; they can advise you on what permits may be needed for installation; and they can help you determine the best EV charging system based on these factors:
- The vehicle’s charging capabilities and requirements, which vary depending on the make, model and type.
- The potential location of the panel and vehicle, including the distance from the panel to the garage, the degree of difficulty and whether the garage is attached or detached.
- The capacity and overall condition of your home electrical system and the identification of any concerns or additional work.
There are two common types of home charging systems. Level 1 charging is a straightforward process—you plug the EV into any standard 120-volt electrical outlet. This requires no electrical modification, and it normally takes around 14 to 20 hours to fully charge the EV.
It’s a safe way to charge, so long as you plug directly into an outlet designed to handle the amperage of the charging device. Never use a multi-plug adapter or extension cord. Remember, too, that charging cables are a tripping hazard, so be aware of the cable’s location and put cables away when you aren’t charging the vehicle.
Some EV manufacturers suggest that a standard 120-volt outlet is all you need to charge your vehicle. However, this degree of charging may not always match the driver’s daily travel needs. You may need to investigate a faster home charger.
Level 2 charging units are sold separately from the vehicle. These units must be installed by a licensed electrician because they plug into a 240-volt outlet and draw much more electricity from the grid in order to completely charge a vehicle in four to eight hours.
If you purchase a Level 2 charging device, make sure it is certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. This means the device has gone through rigorous testing and certification by a third-party company with extensive knowledge and pedigree in certifying EV technologies.
Place all charging components out of reach of children when not in use, and maintain the components of your charging station according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. This may mean covering the EV charging outlet to prevent water exposure. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines to make sure it is safe to charge your EV in wet conditions.
One final word of advice: Contact your local electric co-op before purchasing an EV or installing a charging station. They can answer any questions you have and provide additional information on EV programs and rates.
Jennah Denney writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the national trade association representing more than 900 local electric cooperatives.