Deciding whether or not an electric vehicle is the right choice for you and your family can be a complicated process, and one of the most significant factors is the availability of charging for a new EV. At-home EV chargers make keeping an EV charged and ready to go at all times more simple – but how long is an EV charger’s realistic lifespan? If this question has crossed your mind, we hope to put your mind at ease and let you know that a brand-new at-home EV charger is a fantastic investment in 2024.
The Anticipated Lifespan of Home EV Chargers
No one has their own personal gas station, so EV owners are smart to consider these unique aspects before purchasing and committing to an EV. The good news is that EV chargers are reliable, and your family can have confidence that a properly installed and maintained EV charger can power your vehicle for a decade or more.
When you invest in a home EV charger, you want it to last. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Usage Frequency: The more often you charge, the more wear your charger experiences.
Weather Conditions: Chargers can be sensitive to extreme temperatures and weather, which may affect their lifespan. Work with your electrician to pick an installation location safe from the elements and Florida heat.
Quality of Installation: A professional installation ensures your charger is set up correctly, which can prevent future issues that limit the charger’s lifespan.
Charger Type: Different chargers have varying lifespans; some may last longer than others, and you generally get what you pay for. A budget model will not last as long as a highly-reviewed premium charger.
Maintenance: Regular upkeep and maintenance from an electrician can help extend the life of your charger.
The EV landscape might look completely different in ten years. At that point in time, new chargers may be more affordable, more effective, and easier to maintain. It is entirely possible that you will want to upgrade to the new ‘2034’ model before your current model begins having any actual performance issues, assuming proper care and maintenance.
EV Home Charging vs. Public Charging
Are you still undecided on whether an at-home charger is even suitable for your situation? While a lifespan of ten years is attractive to those who understand the benefits, we know that a commitment of ten years or more might be too much if you are not already sold on the idea of home charging.
Your other option for charging an EV will be public charging stations. Charging at home is often cheaper because residential electricity rates are lower than commercial rates, but that is not the whole story. For example, home chargers are generally slower than the fastest public chargers available. However, an at-home charger is a known value. Would you rather be frantically driving around town looking for a free spot at a supercharger? Or resting with your family at home while your car is charged overnight?
That is the benefit that people with home EV chargers always mention – convenience. Unless you are arriving home from a road trip and immediately heading back out on a long drive, there will very rarely be a situation where normal vehicle usage will lead to a dead battery. Anticipated travel, like commutes, should be considered when picking the charger level for an at-home installation job. As long as your battery can be fully topped up overnight (which nearly all chargers can easily accomplish), a convenient home charger is usually a great choice. And if home charging isn’t enough, you can always head to a public station when needed. Charging at home is strictly an upgrade over not having the option when you want it.
Promise Electric is a team of Sarasota electrical contractors certified to install residential EV chargers. Contact us today to hear our recommendations on the best charger for your situation.
