Electric Vehicle Charging Guide

Electric Vehicle Charging Guide

April 27, 2023

The world is becoming more eco-conscious, shifting towards an environmentally friendlier approach. Imagine never stopping at a gas station for gas, which significantly reduces your carbon footprint. If you want to be part of the revolution, Mr. Electric of Dallas can provide EV charging station installation services for your fuel cell or battery electric vehicle.

Electric vehicles are easy to charge, convenient, and cost-effective, especially if you charge at home. Charging an electric car is as simple as charging your phone, and our EVSE installers can ensure your system meets your charging needs to enhance your overall experience. Before proceeding with an EV charging station installation project, schedule an inspection with an electrician in Farmers Branch. This allows you to leverage a certified technician’s extensive knowledge and expertise to mitigate safety hazards.

How Long Will It Take to Charge My Electric Vehicle?

Once you hire an electrician to install an EV charging station, it is common to inquire about the charging speed. However, three factors determine charging speed: the equipment’s power level, your EV’s onboard charger capacity, and the ambient temperature. In addition, the time to charge at each power level depends on your electric vehicle’s battery size.

Batteries function better when it is not too cold or hot. When charging an EV battery, it generates heat but has mechanisms to mitigate overheating automatically. When temperatures rise during charging, the EV’s internal battery management system slows charging speed. Here is a breakdown of the various power levels and charging speeds.

Level 1

Modern electric vehicles have a portable level 1 charger to plug into a standard 120-volt outlet. Unlike higher levels of charging, which require high voltage outlets, level 1 chargers allow you to charge an electric vehicle within the comfort of your home without additional installations. A typical 40-mile commute should fully charge overnight, making level 1 charges the best option for daily driving.

Level 2

We often find level 2 charging equipment in public areas, such as parking lots and other places vehicles park for a long time. You can also invest in a level 2 charging station for your home, but ensure you hire certified EVSE installers to mitigate potential risks. Level 2 charging equipment uses 208 to 240-volt outlets to supply sufficient power. Since most homes have low-voltage outlets, electrical work may be required to install higher-voltage outlets in convenient charging locations at home. The 40-mile average daily drive is restored within two hours, making a level 2 faster and more convenient than a level 1 charger.

DC Fast Charging

Direct connect chargers, or DC chargers, rely on a larger electric grid to deliver power directly to the vehicle, unlike level 1 or 2 chargers. Most EV chargers have to convert current to a lower power level before entering the car, but a DC charger is faster and more powerful, providing a whopping 10-20 miles of range every minute. You can find DC chargers in workplaces or public facilities, but ensure your vehicle’s charger is connected and can plug in directly.

If you want to learn more about the long-term fuel saving of an electric vehicle compared with a gas-powered car, contact us at Mr. Electric of Dallas. Please schedule a consultation with our expert EVSE installers and enjoy quality services at competitive rates.