How to Prep Your Home for an EV

The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is transforming the automotive landscape, offering a cleaner, more sustainable mode of transportation. The most convenient way to experience this wave is to employ electric car charging at home. This will enable you to drive your vehicle without hunting all over Temecula for a conveniently located public EV charging station. And the fastest method of home charging involves the installation of an electric vehicle home charger. So, if you’re thinking about buying an EV like the Toyota bZ4X, check out our guide below on things to consider when you install an EV charger at home.

The Two Ways of Electric Car Charging at Home

There are two methods for electric car charging at home: Level 1 and Level 2. If you have a short Murrieta commute and ample time for overnight charging, a Level 1 charger might suffice. However, if you desire faster charging or have a longer commute, a Level 2 electric vehicle home charger is the way to go.

• Level 1 charging is the most basic and consists of simply plugging the cord provided with your car directly into a standard 120-volt outlet. So, there is no need to install an EV charger at home when using this method. But this is by far the slowest method of charging, taking up to 24 hours to get to a full charge.
• Level 2 chargers, on the other hand, are the preferred choice for most Lake Elsinore and Menifee EV owners. This method of electric car charging at home requires a dedicated 240-volt outlet, similar to those used for electric ovens or dryers. These chargers deliver significantly faster charging speeds, adding around 25-30 miles of range per hour.

How to Prepare Your Home for an Electric Vehicle Home Charger

There are a few things you need to do before you install an EV charger at home:

• Find the Perfect Charging Spot. Ideally, you want a spot that’s easily accessible, weather-protected, and close to your electrical panel. Your garage or a covered carport are often excellent choices.
• Choose a programmable charger. A programmable charger will enable you to utilize time-of-use electricity plans to schedule charging during off-peak hours, saving you money on your electricity bill.
• Engage a licensed electrician. Installing an electric vehicle home charger is not a DIY project. It requires specialized knowledge and skills to ensure a safe and compliant installation.

Check Out the Toyota bZ4X at Temecula Valley Toyota

If you’re ready to start your zero-emission adventures, come down and take the Toyota bZ4X for a test drive. We’ll be happy to walk you through all of your charging options. If you’d like to learn more, contact us, or check out our post on the benefits of electric vehicles, as well as our other car-buying tips.