As electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular, one of the smartest upgrades you can make at home is installing an EV charger. Public charging stations are popping up more and more, but with so many new EVs hitting the road, demand often outpaces supply. Having your own charger at home makes life a whole lot easier. From saving money to time, here are six key benefits you’ll enjoy by adding one to your new or existing home.
The first, and perhaps most obvious, benefit of having an EV charger at home is convenience. You can plug it in at night during downtime and let the car charge while you sleep. By morning, it’s ready with a full battery. This saves valuable time you’d otherwise spend driving to, and waiting at, a public charger. This makes the transition to an EV feel seamless in your daily routine, just like plugging in your phone every night.
The next big benefit of installing a charger at home is the money you’ll save. Public charging stations often charge a premium - sometimes three to five times more than plugging in at home. By scheduling your charging during off-peak hours, typically between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. when electricity rates are lowest, the savings go even further.
On top of long-term savings, installing a home EV charger can also pay off immediately through tax credits. The IRS offers a federal credit that covers 30% of the cost of purchasing and installing a charger at your primary residence, up to $1,000 per charging port. This isn’t just for the charger itself either, it can include labor and related equipment as well. However, this credit is set to expire on September 30, 2025 under the recent reconciliation bill (OBBBA), so homeowners who want to take advantage of these savings should plan their installation before then.
Safety is another key reason to install a dedicated home EV charger. When your charger is professionally installed by one of our Donovan electricians, you can be confident it meets electrical codes and your home’s wiring and panel are equipped to handle the added demand. On top of that, modern EV chargers are designed with built-in protections like automatic shutoff and overcharge prevention, so both your vehicle and home stay protected every time you plug in.
Installing an EV charger isn’t just about today, it’s also a savvy move for tomorrow. EV ownership is on the rise across the globe; in 2024, more than 20% of new cars sold worldwide were electric and total EV sales surged beyond 17 million vehicles. That means the technology you install today positions your home to keep pace with evolving transportation trends. Plus, many smart chargers can receive updates and adapt to new standards over time, so your investment stays relevant, and you remain ahead of the curve.
Another benefit of installing a home charger is the flexibility it gives you when selecting the level of charger that’s right for you. Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 chargers each differ in charging speed, power output, and driving range, so you can choose the option that best fits your habits and lifestyle. And if your needs change in the future, you always have the ability to upgrade.