Where To Charge Your Electric Car?

Electric cars are becoming more and more popular, and as a result, there are more charging stations popping up all over the place. However, for new electric car owners, finding a charging station can be a daunting task. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about where to charge your electric car, including the types of charging stations, how to find them, and the best practices for charging your electric car.

Types of Charging Stations

There are three types of charging stations: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. Each type of charging station provides a different level of power and charging speed.

Level 1 Charging Stations

Level 1 charging stations are the most basic type of charging station. They are typically found in homes and can be plugged into a standard 120-volt electrical outlet. Level 1 charging stations can provide up to 2-5 miles of range per hour of charging, which means it could take up to 24 hours to fully charge your car. While Level 1 charging stations are slow, they are useful for overnight charging.

Level 2 Charging Stations

Level 2 charging stations are the most common type of charging station. They can be found at public charging stations, workplaces, and homes. Level 2 charging stations require a 240-volt electrical outlet and can provide up to 20-30 miles of range per hour of charging. This means it could take 4-6 hours to fully charge your car, depending on the battery size.

Level 3 Charging Stations

Level 3 charging stations, also known as DC fast chargers, are the fastest type of charging station. They are typically found at public charging stations and can provide up to 80% charge in 30 minutes or less. Level 3 charging stations require a special DC charging port on your electric car and can be expensive to install, which is why they are typically only found at public charging stations.

How to Find Charging Stations

There are a few different ways to find charging stations for your electric car. The most common ways are through electric car apps, online maps, and in-car navigation systems.

Electric Car Apps

There are several electric car apps that can help you find charging stations. These apps provide information about charging station locations, availability, and pricing. Some popular electric car apps include PlugShare, ChargePoint, and Electrify America.

Online Maps

Online maps, such as Google Maps or Apple Maps, also provide information about charging station locations. To find charging stations on Google Maps, simply search for “electric car charging stations near me” and the map will show you the closest stations. Apple Maps provides similar information.

In-Car Navigation Systems

Many electric cars have in-car navigation systems that can help you find charging stations. These systems typically provide information about charging station locations and availability.

Best Practices for Charging Your Electric Car

Now that you know where to find charging stations, let’s cover some best practices for charging your electric car.

1. Plan Ahead

Before you go on a long trip, make sure you plan your route and charging stops ahead of time. This will help you avoid any unexpected issues and ensure that you have enough charge to reach your destination.

2. Don’t Let Your Battery Run Low

It’s important to not let your battery run low. Charging your electric car when the battery is low can cause damage to the battery and reduce its lifespan. It’s recommended to charge your electric car when the battery is between 20-80%.

3. Be Mindful of Charging Etiquette

When using a public charging station, be mindful of charging etiquette. Don’t leave your car parked at the charging station after it’s fully charged, as this can prevent other electric car owners from charging their cars.

4. Use the Right Charging Station

Make sure to use the right charging station for your electric car. Not all charging stations are compatible with all electric cars. Level 1 and Level 2 charging stations use a standard J1772 connector, which is compatible with most electric cars. Level 3 charging stations, on the other hand, require a special DC charging port that is only available on some electric cars.

5. Monitor Charging

While your electric car is charging, it’s important to monitor the charging process. This will ensure that your car is charging properly and help you avoid any issues. Many electric cars have apps that allow you to monitor the charging process remotely.

Conclusion

Finding a place to charge your electric car can be intimidating, but with the right tools and knowledge, it’s actually quite simple. By understanding the different types of charging stations, knowing how to find them, and following best practices for charging your electric car, you can enjoy the benefits of electric car ownership without any headaches. So, get out there and start exploring in your electric car, knowing that you can always find a charging station to keep you going.