For many of us, the convenience of driving an electric vehicle (EV) is one of its best features. Not only do we get to enjoy a cleaner, greener form of transportation, but we also get to cross “going to the gas station” off our to-do list for good.

Imagine that! The best part is, charging your EV at home is easier than you might think, and it's something that can truly improve your daily routine. But if you're new to this whole EV charging setup, there are definitely a few questions you might have.

So, let's dive into some of the most common questions about home EV charging and help you get a better understanding of how it all works.

1. What types of home chargers are there?

When it comes to charging your EV at home, there are two main types of chargers to consider. The first is the Level 1 charger, which uses a standard 120V outlet—the kind we use for lamps, toasters, and other small appliances. Yes, that's right, your regular wall outlet can charge your electric car! While this is the most basic option, it works perfectly for many EV owners who don't need a quick charge.

The second option is the Level 2 charger, which requires a 240V outlet—similar to the kind used for larger appliances like dryers or ovens. This type of charger is faster and more efficient, but it requires more specialized equipment, and you might need to have an electrician come over to install the necessary outlet in your home.

2. How long does it take to charge an electric car battery?

The time it takes to fully charge your EV depends on the type of charger you're using. If you're using a Level 1 charger, it can take overnight to charge your car, which works great if you just need to top up overnight. The nice part is that you can sleep, and your car will be ready to go in the morning!

However, a Level 2 charger will get the job done much faster, typically cutting the charging time in half compared to a Level 1 charger. So, if you need a quicker turnaround, a Level 2 charger is the way to go.

3. Which charger is better for me?

The answer to this really depends on your needs, budget, and the electrical setup in your home.

• Level 1: If you're someone who only needs to charge overnight and doesn't mind the slower speed, a standard 120V outlet will work perfectly fine. No need for any additional upgrades to your electrical system—just plug it in and go!

• Level 2: If you're in a hurry or simply want to charge your EV faster, a Level 2 charger is the way to go. But be aware, you'll likely need a 240V outlet, which may require an electrician to install, depending on your home's current wiring.

4. How does the cost of charging an EV compare to gasoline?

Charging an EV is actually far cheaper than fueling a traditional gas car. In fact, it's typically about 200% cheaper to charge your electric vehicle at home with MCE's Deep Green 100% renewable energy service, as we discussed in one of our recent blog posts on the three big questions about EVs.

Why is it cheaper? Well, not only is renewable energy less expensive in the long run, but you can also take advantage of lower electricity rates during off-peak hours (like between midnight and 3 p.m.). Plus, when you wake up in the morning, your EV battery will be fully charged and ready to go!

5. What if I rent or have trouble charging at home?

For those of us who rent, it might seem like an EV is out of reach, but that's not necessarily true! Many of us in the Bay Area rent homes and may not be able to make decisions about installing outlets or EV chargers in parking spaces. However, MCE offers rebates for adding EV charging stations in apartments or workplaces (like office buildings or schools), which can significantly reduce installation costs.

Plus, there are over 400 public EV charging stations within the MCE service area, so you're never too far from a charging point.

6. When is the best time to charge?

To save money and maximize the use of clean energy, the best time to charge your EV is between midnight and 3 p.m. during off-peak hours. Plus, by setting your charging schedule, you can ensure your car charges while you sleep, so it's fully ready for your commute the next day.

Generally speaking, the California grid tends to have the “dirtiest” power between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m., so you should avoid charging during those peak demand hours. Charging during sunny hours is also great since more solar energy is available, reducing the reliance on fossil fuels.

7. What if there's a power outage?

If there's a power outage, both gas and electric cars face similar challenges. After all, gas stations also rely on electricity to pump fuel. However, PG&E typically provides a 24-48 hour notice for public safety power shutoffs.

With a Level 1 charger, you can still get about 72 miles of range from a full charge within 24 hours. If you have a Level 2 charger, you'll be able to charge your car more quickly, ensuring it's ready to go even if the power goes out. While others are waiting in line at the gas station, you'll be able to get back on the road!

Final Thoughts

Charging your EV at home is an easy and convenient way to ensure your car is always ready to go when you are. Whether you opt for the slower Level 1 charger or the faster Level 2 charger, home charging saves time, money, and hassle compared to traditional fueling.

For those who rent or have limited access to charging options, there are still plenty of public charging stations and incentives available.

So, Lykkers, are you ready to make the switch to electric? Or perhaps you're already enjoying the benefits of charging at home? Let us know how it's going for you! We'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences with home EV charging.