Should I Plug in My EV Every Night?

We’ve heard various sources tell EV owners to avoid nightly charging unless absolutely necessary. At EV Power Solutions, however, we suggest the opposite. Whether you drive 10 miles or 210 miles, we suggest you plug into your Level 2 unit every night.

That being said, EVs should only be charged to 80% consistently.

Why? The short answer is that regularly charging to maximum capacity can put unnecessary strain on your EV’s battery, potentially shortening its lifespan.

Lithium-ion batteries, like those in EVs, last longer when charged between 20% and 80%. Regularly charging to 100% can accelerate battery degradation. By maintaining good charging habits, you can help preserve your battery’s health over time.

Why Nightly Charging Makes Sense

Plugging in night after night is beneficial for several reasons:

  • Preparedness: Whether traveling down the block, across the state, or beyond, nightly charging ensures your vehicle is ready for the next day. Many individuals may need their EV at a moment’s notice. Charging each and every night provides added peace of mind.
  • Limited Charging Options: If you rely primarily on home charging and have minimal access to public chargers, nightly charging is ideal.
  • Cost Efficiency: Electricity rates often drop during off-peak hours. Using smart scheduling features on chargers like the ChargePoint HomeFlex allows you to charge at optimal times, nightly, saving on energy costs.

The Role of a Level 2 Charger

Installing a Level 2 charger at home makes the process faster, safer, and more convenient. Chargers like the Tesla Universal Wall Connector and the ChargePoint HomeFlexavailable at a discount through EV Power Solutions—provide smart features to optimize your charging habits, including:

  • Customizable Power Levels: Adjust charging speeds to match your needs.
  • Smart Scheduling: Charge during off-peak hours to save on energy costs.
  • Energy Monitoring: Track your usage to stay informed about your EV’s energy consumption.

With a professionally installed Level 2 charger, you can tailor your charging schedule to your lifestyle while maintaining battery health and maximizing convenience.

Charging Tips for EV Owners

It’s important to adopt smart charging habits that align with your driving patterns and lifestyle.

  • Monitor Battery Levels: As said, consistently aim to keep your EV charged at 80% for routine use. Reserve 100% charges for long trips.
  • Optimize Scheduling: Use your charger’s smart features to charge during off-peak hours or when you need a quick top-up.

Why Choose EV Power Solutions?

At EV Power Solutions, we’re dedicated to making your EV charging experience stress-free. From selecting the right Level 2 charger to handling professional installation, we provide end-to-end solutions to ensure your charging setup is efficient, safe, and reliable.

So, should you plug in your EV every night? Our experts agree: Yes, you should. But preserve battery life by only charging to 80% consistently. When you pair a reliable Level 2 charger with thoughtful charging habits, you can ensure your EV stays ready for the road while protecting your battery’s longevity.

Ready to upgrade your EV charging setup? Contact our team today for expert advice and professional installation.