Owning an electric vehicle (EV) comes with plenty of perks. Lower fuel costs, less maintenance, and a quieter ride make EVs an attractive choice for families looking to cut down on expenses while being kinder to the environment. Plus, with technology constantly improving, electric cars are becoming more efficient and accessible than ever.
But one big question keeps popping up for new EV owners: Is it better to charge an EV at home or at a public charging station? Sure, public charging stations are convenient when you’re out and about, but can they really compete with the ease of plugging in at home? Let’s break down EV home charging vs. public charging to see which option makes the most sense for you.
The Convenience of Charging at Home
Picture this: You come home after a long day, park your car in the driveway or garage, and plug it in. By the time you wake up, your vehicle is fully charged and ready to go. No detours, no waiting, no stress.
Convenience is the biggest perk of EV home charging. Instead of planning trips around available charging stations or dealing with unexpected stops, your vehicle is charged while you sleep. This means you start every morning with a full battery, which can be a game-changer for daily commutes and busy schedules.
Speed and Charging Options at Home
Most home chargers use an alternating current (AC) Level 1 or Level 2 charging system.
- Level 1 Chargers: These plug into a standard outlet but charge slowly — adding about three to five miles per hour.
- Level 2 Chargers: These require professional installation by electricians but charge much faster — adding 20 to 60 miles per hour.
For homeowners, a Level 2 charger is the way to go. Level 2 chargers offer faster EV charging at home, ultimately saving you from long waits at public stations.
The Cost of Charging: Home vs. Public Stations
Homeowners often want to know how charging an EV will impact their budget. Let’s go over the costs of EV home charging vs. public charging to see which option is the most cost-effective.
Home Charging Costs
Charging at home generally costs less than public charging, especially if you charge during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower. While the upfront cost of a charger and installation might seem like a lot, it pays off in the long run. You avoid public charging fees, which can vary widely based on location and provider.
For example, public DC fast chargers, which use direct current (DC) for rapid charging, can cost much more per kilowatt-hour than home charging. Over time, those expenses add up.
Public Charging Costs
Public charging stations vary in price. Some are free (offered by businesses as an incentive), while others charge per kilowatt-hour or session. Some networks require memberships or charge additional fees for fast charging. You may also need a debit card, credit card, or fuel card for payment. Some charging stations accept contactless payment via a smartphone, while others require a mobile app or card reader.
If you’re relying solely on public chargers, costs can fluctuate. Plus, public charging stations may introduce extra fees for idle time if you leave your car plugged in after it’s fully charged.
Is It Better to Charge an EV at Home or at a Public Charging Station?
So, is it better to charge an EV at home or at a public charging station? For most people, home charging is the best choice.
Here’s why home charging makes more sense:
- It’s cheaper over time, avoiding the fees associated with public stations.
- It’s more convenient, allowing you to charge overnight without extra trips.
- It’s predictable, so you’re never stuck waiting for an available charger.
- It supports your home’s energy efficiency.
Public charging is useful in a pinch, but it’s not ideal as your primary charging method. Unless you live in an apartment without access to home charging, installing a home charging station is the smarter option.
Getting a Home Charger Installed
If home charging sounds like the right move, the next step is installation. A professional electrician will need to install a Level 2 charger, making sure it works with your home’s power supply and meets safety requirements.
Keefe’s is the trusted choice for EV charger installation in the Greater New Orleans Area and the surrounding areas. Our team can install a charger at your home so you can enjoy all the benefits of EV home charging.
The Bottom Line
Is it better to charge an EV at home or at a public charging station? For most drivers, home charging is the better choice. It’s more convenient, costs less in the long run, and allows you to start every day with a fully charged battery.
While public charging can be useful for road trips or as a backup, relying on it daily can be unpredictable and more expensive. When comparing EV home charging vs. public charging, a home setup offers the best balance of affordability and reliability.
Make Charging Easy With Keefe’s
Owning an electric vehicle is a great investment, and how you charge it makes all the difference. Is it better to charge an EV at home or at a public charging station? The answer is simple — home charging is the best option for most drivers.
At Keefe’s, our experienced electricians in the Greater New Orleans Area can set up a fast, reliable home charging station that fits your needs. Contact us today to schedule your installation and make home charging part of your daily routine!
