Zoom Electricians is a full-service electrical contracting company providing quality electrical services to homeowners and businesses. For EV charger installation services, trust only our team to provide our customers with the highest level of customer service and workmanship.
One quirk of electric vehicles is that their chargers often stop at 80 percent. Why is this? It has to do with battery health and longevity. Here are the top reasons why EV chargers stop at 80 percent.
- To prolong battery life
As we mentioned, EV chargers stop at 80 percent to prolong battery life. When you overcharge a battery, it puts stress on the cells and can lead to degradation. This means the battery will have a shorter lifespan and won’t be able to hold as much charge. It’s important to remember that when it comes to batteries, it’s all about maximizing lifespan while still meeting your needs.
- For safety
When batteries are overcharged, they can release flammable gasses. This poses a safety risk, which is why EV chargers are designed to stop at 80 percent. It’s a small trade-off to ensure the safety of EV drivers and passengers.
- To save energy
Another reason EV chargers stop at 80 percent is to save energy. When you charge a battery to 100 percent, you use more electricity than you need. This not only wastes energy but also costs you more money. By stopping at 80 percent, you can save both energy and money.
- To prepare for a long drive
If you know you will take a long drive, it’s best to charge your EV 100 percent. This will give you the full range of the battery and ensure you don’t run out of juice halfway through your journey. However, if you’re going for a short drive, there’s no need to charge 100 percent. Charging to 80 percent will give you more than enough range for your needs.
- To take advantage of fast chargers
EVs can be charged at different speeds, depending on your charger. Level 1 and Level 2 chargers are slower but can be used anywhere. On the other hand, fast chargers are much faster but can only be found at certain locations.
The Factors That Influence How Quickly Your Electric Vehicle Charges
There are a few factors that can affect how fast your EV charges. These include the type of charger you’re using, the temperature, and the size of the battery.
- The type of charger you’re using
As we mentioned, there are different types of chargers for EVs. Level 1 and Level 2 chargers are slower but can be used anywhere. Fast chargers, on the other hand, are much faster but can only be found at certain locations.
- The temperature
Temperature can also affect how fast your EV charges. In general, it’s best to charge your EV in warm weather. Cold weather can slow the charging process and damage the battery.
- The size of the battery
The size of the battery also affects how fast your EV charges. It will require more time to charge a larger battery than a smaller one. This is because more energy needs to be stored in the larger battery.
- The type of EV you have
The type of EV you have can also affect how fast it charges. Some EVs are designed to charge faster than others. This is usually due to the battery type they use or how the charging system is designed.
- Your driving habits
Your driving habits can also affect how fast your EV charges. If you frequently use your EV for long-distance travel, you’ll need to charge it more often than someone who only uses it for short trips. This is because long-distance travel uses more energy and will deplete the battery faster.
There are a few factors that can affect how fast your EV charges. The type of charger you’re using, the temperature, the size of the battery, the type of EV you have, and your driving habits can all play a role. Keep these things in mind when you’re planning your next road trip!
Ways To Reset The EV Charger When Not Charging
If your electric vehicle (EV) charger is not working, there are a few things you can do to reset it. Check the power source, ensure proper connectivity, and test the charging system. You may need Zoom Electricians for EV charger installation or repair if these things don’t work.
How To Reset An EV Charger:
- Check The Power Source
The first thing you need to do when troubleshooting an EV charger is to check the power source. Ensure that the outlet or circuit breaker is working and that power is flowing to the charger. If not, then resetting the breaker or replacing the fuse in the outlet may fix the problem.
- Ensure Proper Connectivity
Next, check all of the connections to and from the charger. Ensure that the power cord is plugged in securely and that all the wiring is intact. If there are any loose or damaged wires, then they will need to be repaired or replaced before the charger will work properly.
- Test The Charging System
Once the power source and connectivity are confirmed, the next step is testing the charging system. If your charger has a built-in testing feature, use it to see if the charger is functioning properly. If not, then you may need to take the charger to a professional for further diagnosis.
- Replace The Charger
If all else fails, then you may need to replace the charger. This is usually a last resort, as a warranty does not typically cover chargers. However, if your charger is defective or damaged beyond repair, then replacing it may be the only option.
- Contact The Manufacturer
Contact the manufacturer if you’re still having trouble resetting your EV charger. They may be able to provide additional troubleshooting tips or help you resolve the issue. It’s also a good idea to keep the charger manual handy in case you need to reference it in the future.
If these things don’t work, then you may need to replace the charger. If you’re still having trouble, then contact the manufacturer for assistance.
By following these steps, you should be able to reset your EV charger and get it working properly again. If you’re still having trouble, then contact a professional for assistance.
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