If you’re thinking about getting an electric vehicle (EV), it’s important to do your research and be prepared to make a few changes to your lifestyle. This includes prepping your home for the new addition to your garage and being aware of what kind of maintenance you’ll need to do.
Home Charger
If you decide to purchase a battery electric vehicle (BEV) or plug-in hybrid (PHEV), you may want to install a home charger.
There are three levels of EV charging. Levels 1 and 2 are available at most public charging stations and can also be done at home. All plug-in EVs come with a Level 1 charger. These can be plugged into any standard 120-V outlet and are commonly used to fill EVs overnight.
Level 2 charging requires a 240-V outlet. This means you’ll need to own a house and have a strong enough outlet in reach of your garage. Contact a certified electrician to get a Level 2 charger installed. Collect quotes from a few electricians to find the best rate.
Level 3 charging is not ideal for home use because of how much power it requires, but you can find it at select charging stations.
Other Methods of Fuelling
You don’t have to charge an EV at home, but it’s useful to have this option available, if possible. The type of EV you purchase will also impact how long it takes to charge.
For regular hybrids (HEVs), you won’t need a home charger. Instead, you can refill the gas tank as you normally would and charge the battery by regenerative braking. If you opt for a fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV), you’ll need to fill it with hydrogen gas at a public station.
Accessories
There are various accessories you can purchase to accompany your EV. An electric car blanket, for instance, can be an alternative to heated seats to keep you warm inside your vehicle.
Another useful accessory is an extension cord to help you reach any outlet you want to charge your EV from. Keep an extra set of charging cables in your vehicle, as well, in case your original cables get damaged or lost.
All-weather floor mats will help protect the interior from stains, and fun accessories, such as car stickers, can add some personality to your vehicle.
Maintenance & Repairs
One of the main reasons people switch to an EV is because they require less maintenance and repair. This doesn’t mean they require no care, however.
Because their motors only have one moving part, EVs don’t require oil or coolant changes. If you have any leftover containers of these products, dispose of them at a toxic waste facility, household hazardous waste centre, or local garage.
Other components, such as the tires, suspension, or windshield washer system, are the same on an EV as a typical car. These will need the same care, so assess them regularly. Check out this article for a detailed look at what maintenance you can expect to do on your EV.
You can have basic repairs taken care of at your local service station or at the dealer. However, if you’re a skilled DIY-er, you can carry out basic repairs in your own garage. If you decide to work out problems on your own, make sure you have the right tools (i.e., insulated tools). For issues related to the battery and drive system of an EV, seek a trained technician.
More EV Features
Although it can be an adjustment, there are many advantages of EVs to keep you from missing your gas-powered car. Many EV drivers notice their new ride is quieter and smoother and is compatible with add-on features such as park assist cameras, touchscreens, and automatic wipers. Fun fact: You can also power your home with an EV in an outage. Best of all, you’ll be significantly reducing your carbon footprint!
There are also financial incentives to help fund your EV purchase. After this initial cost, you’ll likely save a lot on your fuel and maintenance budgets. Once you locate charging stations in your area and get used to planning your routes, you’ll be able to enjoy your EV to the fullest.