As the demand for Electric Vehicles is rising, it is becoming more and more crucial for drivers to have easy and dependable access to charging stations. Buying an AC charger for home or work is one of the most convenient ways to charge an Electric Vehicle but selecting the right charger can be a daunting task. To ease the process, we have put together a list of five tips to keep in mind when you wish to buy an AC charger for your EV.
1. Charger Type:
While looking for an AC Charger for your EV, the initial step is to determine the appropriate charger required. There are three different charger types for electric vehicles available in the market and are known as Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3.
In comparison, Level 1 chargers are the slowest and take more time to charge the vehicles. On the other hand, Level 3 chargers are the quickest among all and are capable of charging your EV within 30 minutes.
Level 2 chargers are devised for home use. They are the most commonly used chargers and the charging duration depends upon the battery capacity of the EV. Thus, it is essential to determine the correct charger type that suits your EV before purchasing an AC Charger.
2. Charging efficiency:
The charging efficiency of an electric vehicle is a vital factor to consider when you buy an AC charger for your EV. If you often take long trips or depend on your electric vehicle for daily commuting, having a faster charging speed is essential for you. The charging speed of an EV is determined by the type of charger being used. Charging speed is measured in kilowatts (kW) and determines how quickly your EV battery will charge. For instance, a Level 1 charger takes longer to charge an EV fully as compared to a Level 3 charger.
Therefore, it is essential to consider the charging speed that you require before purchasing an AC charger for your EV.
3. Safety Features:
When purchasing an AC charger for your electric vehicle, it is essential to consider safety features. Safety features are essential to ensure that you and your EV are protected while charging.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is an essential safety feature. GFCI detects any imbalance in the electrical current and immediately shuts off the power supply to prevent electric shocks. Another essential safety feature is Over-Current Protection (OCP), which prevents the flow of excess current, thus avoiding any potential fire hazards.
Furthermore, it is recommended to search for AC chargers that have been certified by UL. This certification guarantees that the charger has undergone rigorous testing to ensure that it is safe and reliable. It is also crucial to shop for AC Chargers from reputed manufacturers providing warranties and customer support to address any issues that may arise during the charging process.
4. Pricing and features:
While purchasing an AC charger for your electric vehicle, it is important to consider both the price and the features of the charger. The price of the charger depends on its level and the manufacturer.
Apart from the cost, it is crucial to take into account the features offered by the charger. Some chargers offer extra features such as the ability to connect to Wi-Fi, which enables you to check the charging status of your EV using your smartphone. Other chargers may have a lengthier charging cable or be designed in a smaller and more portable manner.
Although the cheap charger may seem to be an appealing solution, it is important to remember that the quality and durability of cheaper chargers may not match those of their more expensive counterparts.
Compare prices and features of different chargers before making a purchase and consider what features are important to you and what your budget is. Look for reviews and recommendations from other EV owners to get an idea of the quality and performance of the charger. By doing so, you can ensure that you are obtaining the most reasonable price for your charger that fulfills your requirements.
5. Installation Requirements:
Another factor to consider when purchasing an AC charger for your electric vehicle is the installation requirements. Additional hardware may be required to support the electrical system depending on the level of the charger.
Level 1 chargers have an in-built standard 120-volt plug and can be plugged into any standard household outlet. They are the easiest to install, and you don’t need any additional hardware or electrical work.
On the other hand, Level 2 chargers require a dedicated 240-volt circuit. This means you will likely need to hire an electrician to install the charger and make changes to your electrical system.
Level 3 chargers require a three-phase electrical system and high-voltage power supply and are typically found at public charging stations or commercial properties and are not suitable for home use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, purchasing an AC charger for your electric vehicle is a wise investment that can enhance your overall driving experience. By following these five tips, you can make an informed decision and choose the right charger that meets your needs and budget while ensuring a safe and efficient charging process.