Brief Introduction of a Home Charger
As electric vehicles (EVs) gain popularity, the convenience of home charging has become an essential factor for EV owners. A home EV charger allows you to recharge your vehicle overnight, ensuring that it’s always ready for your daily commute or long-distance trips. Unlike public charging stations, having a home charger significantly reduces your charging cost.
It comes in different levels, from simple plug-in chargers (Level 1) to more powerful, faster Level 2 chargers that require professional installation. Understanding how these chargers work, their benefits, and how to install them safely can make the transition to electric vehicle ownership smooth and hassle-free. For those looking to install EV chargers in Malaysia, it’s important to understand the capabilities of your home charger
How Does a Home EV Charger Work : Step-by-step Process
Your home receives Alternating Current (AC) electricity from the utility grid, which powers all household appliances, including your EV charger. This AC power is delivered through your home’s electrical panel, which must be equipped to handle the additional load of an EV charger. Depending on your home’s wiring and capacity, professional assessment may be needed to ensure safety and compliance with local electrical codes.
The AC home wallbox charger is installed on an exterior or interior wall of your home, typically in your garage or driveway. This charger delivers AC electricity from your home’s supply to your EV. Most Level 2 home chargers (wallboxes) are capable of charging at a much faster rate than standard household plugs (Level 1 chargers), allowing you to fully charge your vehicle in just a few hours. However, the charging speed depends on the power rating of your charger and your EV’s capability.
Once the AC electricity reaches your EV, it passes through the vehicle’s Onboard Charger (OBC). The OBC is an essential component inside the vehicle that converts the incoming AC power into Direct Current (DC). This conversion is necessary because EV batteries can only store DC power. The efficiency of the OBC varies by vehicle model, which may impact the overall charging speed.
After the AC-to-DC conversion, the DC power is directed to your EV’s battery, where it is stored. The amount of power stored depends on the capacity of your battery, typically measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). For example, an EV with a 60 kWh battery can store 60 kWh of electricity, providing a specific range based on the vehicle’s energy consumption rate. This stored DC energy is then used to power your EV’s motor when you drive.
Benefits of Home Charging in Malaysia
Convenience : Charge Your EV Like You Charge Your Phone
Charging at home is as simple as plugging in your EV and letting it charge overnight, just like you would with your smartphone. There’s no need to drive to a public charging station or wait in line for an available spot. You can recharge your vehicle right in your garage or driveway, and wake up to a fully charged car ready for the day ahead. This level of convenience is particularly beneficial for daily commuters and families with busy schedules, as it saves time and ensures that your vehicle is always ready when you need it.
By eliminating the need to visit public charging stations, home charging enhances your daily routine, offering the ultimate flexibility to charge at your own pace. Whether you have a short daily commute or plan for a long trip, home charging provides peace of mind knowing your EV is always topped up.
Cost Savings: Save More by Charging at Home
Home charging not only offers convenience but is also more cost-effective than using public charging stations. In Malaysia, charging your EV at home means utilizing Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB)’s residential electricity tariff of RM0.571/kWh, which is considerably cheaper than the rates charged at public charging stations, which range from RM1.20 to RM1.50/kWh.
For example, for a full charge of a BYD Atto 3 at home would cost around RM34.26 at TNB’s rate, while using a public charger could cost anywhere between RM72 to RM90 for the same amount of electricity. Over time, these savings can add up significantly, making home charging a more economical choice, especially for frequent drivers.
Reduced Wear on the Battery : Prolong Your EV’s Lifespan
Regular home charging can contribute to better battery management, which helps extend the life of your EV’s battery. Unlike fast charging at public stations, which may put extra strain on the battery due to high power levels, home charging is gentler on the battery. It allows for a slower, steadier charge, which is healthier for the battery’s overall lifespan.
By charging at home on a regular basis, you avoid the extremes of battery charge and discharge levels. Keeping your battery in an optimal range (usually between 20% and 80%) helps prevent premature wear and tear. This can prolong your EV’s battery life and maintain its efficiency over time, reducing the need for expensive battery replacements.
Read more: EV Battery Charging Best Practices
AC Home Charging vs. DC Fast Charging
| Charger Type | Process | Speed | Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| AC Home Charger | The electricity passes through the onboard charger (OBC) to convert AC to DC. | AC home charging is generally slower because the conversion process takes time. | Ideal for overnight charging or situations where you have ample time to charge your EV. |
| DC Fast Charger | Supplies high-power Direct Current (DC) directly to the EV battery, bypassing the onboard charger. | Charges much faster than an AC charger because it eliminates the AC to DC conversion step. | Best for quick top-ups or when you need to charge your EV rapidly. |
Understanding the differences between AC home charging and DC fast charging is essential for making informed decisions about your EV charging setup.
RExharge: Certified EV Charger Installer
RExharge is a reputable installer of EV home chargers in Malaysia, certified by Suruhanjaya Tenaga(ST) and Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB). We provide professional installation services ensuring your home charging setup is safe, efficient, and compliant with local regulations. Whether you need a standard Level 1 charger or a faster Level 2 charger, RExharge has the expertise to meet your needs.
By understanding these basic principles and partnering with certified installers like RExharge, you can enjoy the full benefits of EV ownership right from the comfort of your home. For more detailed information on EV home charging, consider visiting educational resources and guides on trusted automotive and environmental websites. Contact RExharge for a FREE home check and consultation.