| | December 20238E ERGYTech ReviewIN MY OPINIONBy Tim Davis, Electrical Manager, F.H. Furr Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning, & ElectricalBENEFITS OF INSTALLING AN EV CHARGER AT HOME Electric vehicles (EVs) have rapidly transformed from a niche novelty to a mainstream mode of transportation and don't seem like they're going anywhere anytime soon. These eco-friendly vehicles offer a wide range of advantages for homeowners, from reducing carbon emissions to lower maintenance costs. If you're considering making the switch to an electric vehicle, one important aspect to consider is installing an EV charger at home. As a seasoned home service professional in the electrical industry, I wanted to share some of the benefits to homeowners and readers for installing one at home:Convenience and Time Savings: Working with homeowners day in and day out, I know how time is a precious commodity, especially when they have a family and busy work schedule. Having a Level-2 EV charger at home can save you a considerable amount of it. Imagine coming home after a long day of work and plugging in your EV to charge overnight. You wake up to a fully charged vehicle, ready for your daily activities. I regularly hear this from customers about how much they've enjoyed cutting out detours to public charging stations to wait in line. More time at home means more time with family!Flexibility: Home EV chargers offer a range of options in terms of charging speed and capacity. Level 1 chargers use a standard household outlet and, depending on your driving habits should be used for emergencies, as they only output 2-5 miles/hour of charge time. If you're looking for quicker charge times, Level 2 chargers are available, which can charge your vehicle significantly faster by up to 30 miles/hour of charge time. By installing an at-home charger, you have the freedom to choose the charging level that suits your daily routine and driving habits, providing unparalleled flexibility.Cost Savings: While the upfront cost of purchasing and installing a home EV charger might seem daunting to many, it can lead to significant long-term savings. Public charging stations can sometimes come with higher charging fees, especially for fast charging. By charging your EV at home, you can take advantage of your utility's off-peak electricity rates, which are often more affordable. Over time, the savings on fuel costs, vehicle maintenance, and current tax credits/rebates can offset the initial investment in the charger and contribute to a more economical ownership experience.Increase in Home Value: The adoption of electric vehicles is on the rise, and homes with charging infrastructure are becoming increasingly attractive to potential buyers. Installing an EV charger can add value to your property and make it more appealing in a competitive real estate market. As more individuals embrace EVs, having a home charger becomes a desirable feature that can set your property apart from others.Tim Davis
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