Many drivers around Lakeland are adopting the EV lifestyle. Advancements in EV technology have made these eco-friendly vehicles highly competitive with traditional gasoline-powered models. When you opt for an EV, you also no longer have to worry about rising gas prices in Winter Haven. What's not to love?

If you are ready to make the switch too, you may have questions about at-home electric vehicle charging. That's ok! Learn all about how to prep your home for an EV and how to choose the correct electric vehicle charger type in this guide from Subaru Lakeland. 

1. Choose an Electric Vehicle Charger Type

When it comes to at-home electric vehicle charging, you will be able to choose from Level 1 or Level 2 chargers. Here's what sets each electric vehicle charger type apart. 

• Level 1 EV charging often takes days to fully charge an electric car. 
• Level 2 EV charging often takes several hours to fully charge an electric car. 

2. Make Space in Your Garage

Is your Bartow garage packed with clutter? If that's the case, it's time to clean it out. You need to make sure there is enough space for at-home electric vehicle charging. 

3. Find Your Power Panel and Determine Regular Consumption

Your home has a power panel that distributes electricity throughout the entire structure. The power panel is rated for a maximum amount of current flow measured in Amperes. If you have a newer home in Lake Wales or Auburndale, you likely have a 100 Amp power panel. If you are not sure, check for an amperage rating printed on your main circuit breaker.

Once you know the amperage rating, you need to assess how much electrical energy you consistently use in your home. It is important to do this so that you do not overload your electric distribution panel once your preferred electric vehicle charger type is installed. 

4. Hire an Electrician

If you prefer Level 2 charging, you will need to hire an electrician. He or she can install a dedicated 240-volt plug or add a hardwired circuit back to the power panel, which generally costs a couple hundred dollars. However, if the power panel is not sufficient and needs an upgrade, the cost could range around $1,000 to $3,000. 

5. Purchase and Install the Charger 

Have you chosen your preferred electric vehicle charger type? If not, you will need to do this now. If you have already made your purchase, you can have your electrician install it for you.

Learn All About the EV Lifestyle with Subaru Lakeland 

You now know how to prep your home for an EV. If you have any other questions about electric vehicle ownership, do not hesitate to reach out to us today. We are also happy to share our handy car buying tips as well. Don't forget to learn about Florida electric vehicle incentives.