An electric vehicle has special needs. Instead of fuel, it requires stored electrical energy to run for miles and miles. It has a big battery that requires a long charging time. It is possible to charge it at home overnight so that it can be ready the next morning for the work commute. However, regular chargers are painfully slow with 5 miles per hour being the norm. If your office is much farther away, then you will want something that can add more miles per unit time. Check out electric car charging stations which are also known as Level 2 chargers.
Ampere Rating
The most important specification to focus on is the ampere rating. This is the rate of flow of electricity. The higher the amperes, the faster it will fill up the battery. It’s best to aim for at least 30 amps, although you can certainly go higher at 40 amps or more. You will probably have to pay more for the advanced unit but you will be able to have peace of mind about the mileage capacity of your car every morning.
Weatherproofing
Some of these charging stations can be installed indoors to protect them from the weather. Others might have to go outdoors because the own does not have a garage. If you are in the second category, then you need to get a unit that is specifically built for this kind of situation. The plug should be protected by a holster. The enclosure should have a quality rating that confirms its suitability for outdoor usage.
Portability
Some stations are meant to be fixed in one spot including outdoor installations. Others are portable and can be used anywhere. This may be a better solution for those who shuffle between two homes or those who also charge their car in the office parking space. Make sure that the cable is long enough to bridge the car and the outlet.
Wi-Fi Connectivity
Like many smart home devices, electric car charging stations can feature Wi-Fi connectivity. This allows people to monitor and control it remotely. They can change the settings with regards to reminders, remote starts, and scheduling. This setup will only work if the home Wi-Fi has a strong enough signal to reach the device. The broadband connection should be fast enough to accommodate its needs as well.
Unit Cost
The cheapest units are available for under $200 while the most expensive ones are around $1,000. Consider investing in an advanced station to enjoy fast charging and portability.
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