Portable EV Chargers: Are They Worth It?

If you are an electric vehicle (EV) owner, ensuring that your car remains charged and ready is not just a preference; it is essential. As more individuals opt for these environmentally-friendly vehicles over traditional gas-powered cars, towns and businesses are increasingly investing in public charging stations to facilitate easier access for drivers needing to recharge their batteries. Despite these developments, easily accessible charging stations remain limited, making it sometimes difficult to find an available spot to charge your vehicle.

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Unfortunately, the convenience of public charging stations often comes at a cost. Relying solely on public stations for charging can lead to expenses far exceeding those of gasoline. Consequently, investing in an at-home electric car charger becomes a valuable option. Before selecting a charger for your vehicle, it is crucial to comprehend the advantages of having one installed at home. Here’s what you should know.

How Far Can an EV Go On a Full Charge?

The range of your electric vehicle with a fully charged battery depends on its battery capacity. Typically, most electric vehicles can travel between 100 and 400 miles on a full charge, which allows most drivers to go several days without needing a recharge.

However, if your battery runs low while away from home, locating a charging station to recharge is necessary. Depending on your location, this can be quite challenging, and charging the vehicles can take some time to adequately replenish a charge to ensure you can return home safely.

How Long Does It Take to Charge an Electric Car at a Charging Station?

The time required to charge your car at a charging station varies based on the charger type. Level 1 chargers typically provide charging speeds of two to five miles per hour, while Level 2 chargers offer significantly faster speeds of ten to 20 miles per hour. For those with Level 3 chargers, the charging speed can be between 180 and 240 miles per hour.

Read also: The Different Types of Electric Car Chargers Explained.

Are Portable EV Chargers Worth It?

While charging stations may offer quicker charging times, they are not always available or conveniently located when you might need them. Portable electric car chargers allow you to recharge your vehicle’s batteries regardless of your location, even if it’s far from the nearest public charging station.

How a Portable EV Charger Works

Portable electric car chargers are designed for mobility. They come equipped with a high-capacity battery bank that can be charged using a standard 120-volt outlet at home. The compact nature of these devices makes them easy to transport within your vehicle and can provide a range of 20 to 50 miles before the portable battery is depleted. Much like any other car charger, simply plug your vehicle in as you would at home.

Power Comparison vs. Regular Car Charging Stations

Although portable chargers are convenient, their battery size limits their overall power output. Smaller devices may yield less power resulting in reduced range per charge, while larger chargers can provide better performance with faster charging times.

However, portable chargers are not comparable in power to permanent car charging stations. Fixed units connected to the electric grid can deliver much quicker charging due to access to higher voltages, enabling them to charge your vehicle completely.

For optimal use, a combination of both permanent and portable charging solutions is advisable. The stationary charging station will keep your vehicle charged for daily commutes, while the portable unit can extend your travel range to reach dedicated charging stations in case of emergencies.

Pros and Cons

When considering whether a portable charger fits your driving needs, it is essential to acknowledge its advantages and potential drawbacks. Here are the main pros and cons:

Benefits of Portable EV Chargers

1. They travel with you

Portable chargers go wherever you do, ensuring you’re not left stranded if your vehicle runs out of battery.

2. They’re compact

The compact design allows portable chargers to fit in your vehicle’s trunk, leaving space for other necessities such as gear or groceries.

3. They’re cheaper to install

Portable chargers operate from standard wall outlets and do not require hardwiring into your home, eliminating the need for a technician for installation.

Disadvantages of Portable EV Chargers

1. They have small capacities

Due to their design, portable chargers can only provide a limited range per charge and are unable to charge your vehicle from empty to full.

2. They’re heavy

Even though they are portable, these chargers can be cumbersome and difficult to manage.

3. Slow charge speed

Portable EV chargers are typically a stopgap rather than a permanent solution, resulting in slower charging speeds than dedicated charging stations.

Can You Have an EV Without a Home Charger?

While it is possible to own an electric vehicle without having a dedicated home charger, it is not an optimal choice. You would be reliant on public charging stations, which may not be conveniently situated near your residence or office. While portable chargers can provide additional range, they are insufficient as a primary charging source.

Home Electric Car Chargers

Home chargers are capable of fully charging your vehicle overnight and can ensure your batteries are replenished when needed. For many drivers, having an in-home charging solution is a worthwhile investment and can make the experience of driving an electric vehicle as convenient as a gas-powered vehicle.

Benefits of In-Home Car Chargers

In-home chargers offer numerous advantages for electric vehicle owners, such as:

1. Infinite charging capacity

Home chargers supply a reliable power source, ensuring that they won’t run out of electricity as portable chargers may.

2. Better long-term affordability

Using an in-home charger often proves more economical compared to public charging stations, as homeowners typically only pay their standard electricity rate.

3. Wide range of options

Various types of chargers are available—Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3—allowing you to choose the most suitable option for your driving requirements and budget. Note that you may require an electrical inspection to ensure the proper and safe installation of the equipment.

If you’re considering an in-home electric car charger, be sure to investigate state grants and rebates that may reduce installation costs. Most homeowners qualify for some form of rebate to alleviate their initial expenses. Also, look for a certified electrician to guarantee that your charging system is installed correctly and operates effectively.

The professionals at Performance Air Conditioning Electrical & Plumbing can assist with the installation of various types of in-home electric vehicle chargers, providing financing solutions to suit your needs. Our electric vehicle charger technicians are licensed and certified, ensuring your charging system functions safely and efficiently once installed. Schedule an online appointment today to find the best charging solution for your home and driving habits.

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