7 EV Battery Charging Best Practices
Owning an electric vehicle (EV) comes with many perks: lower fuel costs, fewer maintenance headaches, and the satisfaction of driving a greener car. But to get the most out of your investment, it’s essential to follow EV battery charging best practices to maximize performance, efficiency, and battery longevity.
Whether you’re new to EV ownership or looking to fine-tune your charging habits, these EV battery charging best practices will help you charge smarter and keep your vehicle running at its best.
1. Don’t Charge to 100% Every Time
While it might seem sensible to top off your battery every time you charge, regularly charging to 100% can put unnecessary strain on your battery. Most EV manufacturers recommend keeping your charge between 20% and 80% for daily driving to extend battery life. Save that full charge for long road trips when you require the extra range.
2. Don’t Let the Battery Drain Completely
On the flip side, letting your battery drop to zero too often can hamper performance over time. Modern EV batteries are designed to handle occasional such deep discharges, but frequent full depletion can reduce their long-term capacity. Always try to plug in before your battery dips below 20%.
3. Use a Level 2 Charger for Efficient Charging
This is a big one. While, yes, you can charge your EV using a standard household outlet , it’s the equivalent of filling a swimming pool with a garden hose. That is to say, slow and impractical. Investing in a Level 2 charger, like the Tesla Universal Wall Connector or ChargePoint HomeFlex, allows you to charge faster and more efficiently. These chargers provide 25-50 miles of range per hour, making overnight charging simple and convenient.
4. Take Advantage of Smart Charging Features
The best modern chargers are equipped with smart technology that lets you schedule charging times, monitor energy usage, and optimize charging cycles. Scheduling your charge during off-peak hours can lower electricity costs, and some chargers even allow you to set limits to prevent overcharging.
5. Keep Your Battery Cool (or Warm!)
Extreme temperatures—hot or cold—can affect battery performance. When possible, park your EV in a garage to protect it from extreme weather. Many EVs also have thermal management systems to regulate battery temperature, but avoiding prolonged exposure to extreme heat or freezing conditions can boost battery efficiency.
6. Plan Your Charging Based on Your Driving Habits
If your commute is short and you’re only using a small percentage of your battery each day, you might only need to charge every few days. Customizing your charging routine to match your driving habits prevents unnecessary strain on your battery while ensuring you always have enough range.
7. Choose a Professional to Install Your Home Charging System
A Level 2 home charging setup is only as good as its installation. At EV Power Solutions, we provide professional installation to ensure your charger is safely installed and optimized for performance. From assessing your home’s electrical system to handling permits and installation, our team makes home charging effortless.
Charging Smarter, Driving Longer
By following these EV battery charging best practices, you can maximize your battery’s lifespan, improve efficiency, and ensure you always have enough power when you need it. Whether you charge daily or every few days, using a Level 2 charger installed by EV Power Solutions will give you a seamless, stress-free charging experience.
Ready to upgrade your charging setup? Contact us today for expert advice and installation!