Estimating the Impact of an Electric Vehicle on Your Electricity Bill and the Best Charger for Your Tesla
The decision to switch to an electric vehicle (EV) not only benefits the environment but also can have a considerable impact on your electricity bill. Understanding how much your electricity costs will increase and selecting the right charger are crucial steps in this process. This article will guide you through the calculations and considerations needed to make an informed decision.
Estimating Electricity Costs for EV Usage
First, you need to determine the amount of electricity you will be using to charge your car. This is dependent on how much you plan on driving. There is a straightforward formula to do this: multiply the average distance you expect to drive daily by the number of miles per kilowatt-hour (kWh) your EV uses, and then multiply that by the cost per kWh in your area.
We can use an example to illustrate this. Assuming that an average EV uses 1 kWh to travel 4 miles, if you plan to drive an average of 40 miles a day, you would need approximately 10 kWh per day (40 miles / 4 miles per kWh 10 kWh). If your electricity costs $0.15 per kWh, your daily cost would be $1.50. For a 30-day period, the cost would be approximately $45.
Charging at Different Times of the Day
The time of day you charge can significantly impact your electricity costs. In many areas, energy costs are lower during off-peak hours, such as overnight. Therefore, it’s advisable to charge your EV during these times. For instance, if you charge at night, your cost could be significantly lower than during peak times. In my experience, I noticed that charging at night provided a cheaper rate, aligning with the energy-efficient practices recommended by experts.
Types of EV Chargers and Cost Considerations
There are different types of chargers available for EVs, including Level 1, Level 2, and DC Fast Charging. Each type has a different price point and is suitable for different driving needs.
Level 1 Charger: Low-Maintenance Option
For short daily driving distances (up to 50 miles), a Level 1 charger may be sufficient. These chargers typically use a standard 120V household socket and can deliver up to 1.4 kWh of electricity per hour. While this is a low cost option, it can take longer to charge. In the example mentioned, it would take 7.14 hours to fully charge a Tesla Model S using a Level 1 charger.
Alternatively, you can purchase a harvested condenser or an option on eBay for around $125, as I did. These chargers are simple, affordable, and reliable for light-duty driving.
Level 2 Charger: Faster and More Capable
If you expect to drive more than 50 miles per day, a Level 2 charger is a better choice. These chargers use a 240V circuit and can deliver up to 24 kWh of electricity per hour. They are faster and can significantly reduce charging time. However, these chargers are more expensive and may require professional installation to handle the higher voltage and current.
I found that the cost of a Level 2 charger can vary from $600 to $1000, depending on the brand and model. Additionally, you may need to hire an electrician to install the necessary wiring, which can add to the overall cost. The installation cost can range from $300 to $600, depending on local labor rates.
The Trade-Off: Electricity and Fuel Costs
It's important to consider the overall cost savings when switching to an EV. As mentioned in a previous example, I noticed that my monthly electric increase for my Tesla Model S was around 20-25 kWh, while my gasoline bill decreased by $250-$275. This is a good trade-off and aligns with the general consensus among EV owners. The Tesla software also allows for easy calculation of fuel savings by entering the average gas cost and kWh usage.
In conclusion, the cost of charging an EV varies based on driving habits and local electricity rates. While Level 1 chargers are cost-effective for lighter use, Level 2 chargers offer faster charging with a higher price tag. It's crucial to assess your driving needs and budget to make the best choice. Considering the environmental benefits and potential cost savings, EVs can be a smart investment for many people.
For more information on EV charging and related topics, please refer to reputable sources such as the U.S. Department of Energy, or consult with a professional in your area who specializes in electric vehicle technology and installation.