You enjoy your electric vehicle for the many cost-saving benefits it provides. Electricity is often cheaper per mile than fuel, and the prices are more stable. These cars also experience less wear and tear and don’t need oil changes. A home EV charger adds convenience, too, and you can further increase your savings by upgrading your charger’s equipment.
Smart Chargers
Smart EV chargers use apps to track electricity prices, grid signals, and your car’s unique needs. This includes your battery level and departure times. By learning your habits, these smart chargers will automatically start and stop at the most convenient times. They’ll try to do this when energy prices are lowest. This helps guarantee that your vehicle is ready to go when you need it, without wasting money.
Level 2 Chargers
A smart Level 2 charger will allow you to schedule charging for weekends or overnight. Electricity rates are cheaper at these times, which will help reduce your electric bills when compared to using a Level 1 charger during peak hours.
A 240V, a Level 2 charger will be much more efficient than a 120V, Level 1 model. This means that more of the electricity you pay for goes into your battery.
Check with your local utility companies and government for rebates and incentives for installing a Level 2 charger. This can offset the cost of the initial installation. Remember that a built-in Level 2 charger will add to your home’s value. And you can recoup the cost when you sell.
Energy Star Chargers
Your EV charger will sit idle for long stretches of time. ENERGY STAR models use substantially less power while in standby mode. This cuts energy waste and keeps costs low. Many electric utilities offer incentives and rebates for installing ENERGY STAR products, resulting in immediate savings.
An EV charger must pass rigorous safety tests before it can be labeled as an ENERGY STAR product. Also, many models are smart-grid-ready, which leads to even more savings.
Smart Splitters
A smart splitter can help you save money on the cost of upgrading your electrical panel or installing a dedicated circuit for your charger. A smart splitter plugs directly into an existing outlet and costs only a few hundred dollars. Once installed, a smart splitter allows your EV charger to share an outlet with another major appliance, such as your clothes dryer.
By making these simple equipment upgrades, you’ll enjoy significant savings. It’s one more way to make your home EV charger more convenient and beneficial. For help with your EV charger installation, contact Duryea in Holyoke, MA today.
