Charging Your New Electric Vehicle
The cost of fuel compounded with the detrimental effects of emissions that gasoline-powered vehicles are responsible for may have resulted in you deciding to purchase an electric vehicle. With an electric vehicle, you won't need to purchase fuel any longer, but you will need to have a viable way to charge your car's battery.
Home Charging Stations
A home charging station will provide a convenient way for you to power up your vehicle's battery each evening. Many electric car manufacturers include a 110-volt charging unit with the purchase of a vehicle. A 110-volt electrical cord is commonly used in residences. The metal prongs will be adjusted vertically and will be side by side. If you have a power outlet inside of your garage or on the side of your home, this can be used during the charging process.
With the use of a 110-volt cord, it may take many hours to fully charge your vehicle's battery. For a quicker charging process, a 220-volt cord can be used. This type of cord contains three metal prongs, and this cord type is commonly used to connect household appliances. Since you may only have one or two three-pronged outlets in your home, you may need to hire an electrician to either upgrade an existing outlet or install a new one that will support the charging device that you own.
With the upgrade, adjustments will be made to your home's breaker box. Before an electrician comes to your home, decide where you would like to charge your vehicle. Choose a spot where you normally park your car each evening. Testing equipment will be utilized by an electrician, to ensure that the current is flowing through the new wiring that will be connected to the 220-volt electrical outlet. To prevent overloading the electrical circuit, refrain from using the upgraded or new outlet for anything other than the charging of your vehicle.
Commercial Charging Stations
Some commercial businesses offer public charging stations. These stations tend to charge batteries much quicker than residential ones. The type of electrical equipment that is utilized for commercial stations must be installed by a licensed electrician. If you plan on charging your vehicle when you are away from your home, store your charging cord in the back of your vehicle. Always keep the cord clean and dry and refrain from wrapping the cord around anything. This will preserve the condition of the charging equipment.
For more information about EV charging and installation, contact a local company, like Shocking Difference LLC.