A Guide to Buying a Portable EV Charger
Welcome to this guide on purchasing an electric vehicle portable charger! As an avid EV enthusiast, I know just how important it is to have a reliable and efficient charger. In this article, I'll be sharing my tips on what to look for when purchasing a portable EV charger, and the benefits of having a variable amperage charger..
Firstly, let's talk about what a portable EV charger allows you to do. As electric vehicles become more popular, charging infrastructure is expanding rapidly. However, it may not always be convenient to use public charging stations. A portable EV charger allows you to charge your car from the comfort of your own home or any other location with a suitable (3-pin) socket and power supply. This means you can avoid the hassle of finding a public charging station, and also save money by taking advantage of cheaper electricity rates at home.
When it comes to purchasing a portable EV charger, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important is amperage. The amperage of a charger determines how quickly it can charge your car. A higher amperage charger will charge your car more quickly, while a lower amperage charger will charge more slowly.
However, there is a catch. In some cases, the supply may be the limiting factor. This means that if the power supply at your home or the location where you are charging is not strong enough, you won't be able to charge your car at the maximum amperage. In this situation, a variable amperage charger from 6amps through to 13amps can be beneficial. This allows you to adjust the amperage depending on the power supply available, and still charge your car efficiently.
Another important factor to consider when purchasing a portable charger is compatibility. Make sure to check that the charger you are interested in is compatible with your specific electric vehicle model. Some chargers may only be compatible with certain models, so it's important to double-check before making a purchase, and of course purchase a portable EV charger with the correct connector for your model, either a Type 1 portable EV charger or Type 2 portable EV charger depending on compatibility.
Cable length is another important factor to consider. Make sure to choose a charger with a cable length that suits your needs. A longer cable can be beneficial if you need to park your car further away from the power socket, while a shorter cable may be more convenient if you have limited space.
Portability is also a consideration. If you plan to take your portable EV charger with you on the go, look for one that is lightweight and easy to carry. Some chargers come with a carrying case, which can be useful for keeping the charger protected and organised.
Safety features are also important to consider. Look for a charger with overcurrent protection, which will prevent the charger from drawing too much power and causing damage to your car or the power supply. Over voltage protection is also important, as it protects your car's battery from overcharging. Overheat protection is another feature to look for, as it prevents the charger from overheating and causing damage.
In terms of pricing, it's important to consider your budget, but also remember that a higher-priced charger may have more features and better build quality.
In summary, purchasing a portable EV charger for your electric vehicle is a smart investment. It allows you to charge your car from the comfort of your own home or any other location with a suitable socket. When looking for a charger, make sure to consider the amperage, compatibility, cable length, portability, and safety features. And if possible, opt for a charger with variable amperage so you can adjust the charging speed to your needs. With a portable EV charger, you can enjoy the benefits of electric vehicle ownership without worrying about running out of charge.
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