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Can I Charge My Electric Car at Home?

Over the years, sales of electric vehicles (EVs) have steadily increased and expected to continue with experts predicting that they will outsell the traditional internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEs). The forecast is that EVs will comprise 57% of global passenger car sales by 2040.

Can I Charge My Electric Car at Home?

In Ireland, the number of people purchasing EVs is growing as well. It is estimated that there are around 12,000 Plug in Vehicles in Ireland at present. Based on SIMI data gathered as of March 2020, the total number of registered electric vehicles is 9,040. This is for all types of electric vehicles – electric, petrol electric, petrol/plug-in electric hybrid, diesel/electric and diesel/plug-in electric hybrid.

There are various drivers for the rise in the sales of EVs in Ireland. These include the realisation that using zero carbon emission vehicles are considerably cheaper.

Another reason is the accessibility of chargers. Thanks to the government’s initiative, spearheaded by the Electricity Supply Board (ESB), there are currently around 1,200 public charging points all over Ireland. There is also the growing awareness that home car charging is the best value & most reliable option.

Yes, you read that right – you can charge your electric car at home. In fact, according to the ESB, 90% of electronic vehicle charging in Ireland is done at home.

Preference for home charging is growing because of the convenience it offers. Imagine having a fully charged car when you leave your house giving maximum flexibility for your daily journeys, removing the worry of unexpectedly stopping to charge your EV.

Ways of Charging Electric Cars at Home

This may come as a surprise to you, but it is possible to charge your EV by plugging it to a standard 3 pin socket just like charging other domestic electronic devices such as laptops and mobile phones. All you need is a cable that is specially manufactured for this task widely known as the “Granny Cable” or portable charger.

While it is possible to charge your car using a “Granny Cable”, it is not recommended for everyday use as standard household sockets are not designed to withstand high levels of power over a prolonged period of time.

Ways of Charging Electric Cars at Home

In addition, charging using standard domestic sockets will take up to 4 times longer to charge a car. In fact, this is noted as the slowest method. It is also the most inconvenient one, especially if you don’t have a plug close to your driveway.

Suffice to say, charging using a standard socket should be your last option. You should only employ this method in case of an emergency or when you need to charge for a short period of time.

The most efficient & normal way to charge your electric car at home is via a dedicated charging point. Charging is so much faster through a home charging point than a standard socket.

“How about installation cost” you may ask. Well, it is affordable now, especially assisted by the €300 SEAI Grant for private EV owners planning to install home chargers.

How to Have an Electric Car Home Charging Point

Please know that a home charging point needs to be professionally installed. This means enlisting the services of a certified charging provider.

It is recommended that you choose a company with trained and experienced installers like ePower. It is also imperative that the company has a proven track record of rendering first-rate service. This includes proper installation and professional service from start to finish.

Remember, when your charger is installed the right way, you can count on it to function well and last long.

Aside from having expert installers, your chosen company should have superior home chargers. It is highly important for these chargers to be durable. They must be able to withstand harsh weather conditions.

Hire a certified EV charging solutions provider

In summary, you need to have a dedicated home charging point for you to be able to efficiently charge your electric car in your house. To make this happen, you must hire a certified EV charging solutions provider known for its quality chargers and outstanding service.

Planning to install an EV charger at home?

ePower is one of Ireland’s trusted provider and installer of superior electric car chargers. Call us now on 1800 99 88 77 to learn more about our products and services!

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Join us on the road to clean mobility. Speak to an EV charging expert today.

Fill out the form and one of our team will contact you within 24hrs or simply mail us at info@epower.ie


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