Avoid Common Charging Pitfalls for Electric Vehicle Owners
New electric vehicle owners frequently fall into a common trap: improper charging habits. A finance professional emphasizes the critical importance of installing a Level 2 home charger rather than depending solely on conventional wall outlets or public fast-charging stations. This strategic approach ensures a more efficient, economical, and satisfying ownership journey for EV drivers.
Ravi Wadan, a finance expert, recently shared his insights via a popular video, pinpointing what he considers the \"biggest mistake\" made by individuals new to electric vehicles. His primary recommendation for anyone considering an EV purchase or lease is unequivocally to equip their home with a Level 2 charger. He advises against relying on standard household outlets and especially cautions against a sole dependence on public charging infrastructure.
Wadan explains that while charging an EV from a standard Level 1 household outlet is technically feasible, it's far from ideal for regular use. These outlets typically add only 1 to 3 miles of range per hour, which is often insufficient for daily driving needs. In contrast, a Level 2 home charger, such as a dedicated EV wall unit or a 240-volt Nema 14-50 dryer outlet, can significantly boost charging speed, delivering 20 to 40 miles of range per hour. This substantial difference means that overnight charging can ensure an EV starts each day with a full battery.
Furthermore, Wadan strongly advises against relying exclusively on public fast chargers. He points out that this method is not only time-consuming, potentially requiring several hours per week, but also surprisingly expensive, with costs sometimes comparable to traditional gasoline. This defeats one of the key benefits of EV ownership: reduced fuel costs. For those who can install one, a Level 2 home charger is demonstrably faster, more affordable, and immensely more convenient, greatly enhancing the overall EV experience. Wadan notes that the increase in electricity bills from home charging is usually a modest $30 to $50 per month, far outweighed by the hundreds of dollars saved on gasoline.
The challenges of public charging, including long wait times and inconvenient social interactions, are well-known to both new and experienced EV drivers. Many owners express a wish that they had received advice like Wadan's before their purchase, allowing them to better prepare for the transition to electric. While Level 1 charging is slow, it can suffice for drivers with minimal daily commutes or those who own multiple vehicles, provided it's used strategically to avoid unexpected power depletion. Feedback from EV owners varies, with some dissenting from Wadan's advice, suggesting that standard wall charging is adequate. However, those living in apartments often report difficulties in securing consistent charging options, even as newer buildings begin to incorporate EV charging facilities. Some fortunate owners have even reported receiving rebates and monthly credits from energy providers for installing Level 2 chargers, further reducing their charging costs.
Many negative perceptions of electric vehicles stem from an inadequate home charging setup. The common misconception that public charging alone is sufficient often leads to frustration and unexpected expenses, diminishing the primary advantage of EV ownership. With a Level 2 home charger, vehicles can be fully replenished overnight, providing ample range for typical daily use. Public charging then becomes a necessity only for extended road trips, significantly simplifying the daily routine of EV owners.