Juicing up your electric vehicle at home is not only convenient but also cost-effective. Did you know that charging in public can set you back 100% more than charging in the comfort of your own home? That’s right! So, let’s dive into the world of 3-pin plug charging, a budget-friendly option that might just suit your needs.
Using a 3-pin plug to charge at home is a breeze. Sure, it’s the slowest type of charging out there, maxing out at 2.3kW, but it’s perfect as a backup or overnight solution. Wondering how long it takes to charge your electric car with a 3-pin plug charging? You’ll get around 8 miles of range per hour, meaning that adding 60kWh to your battery will take approximately 7.5 hours overnight. Ideal if your daily mileage doesn’t go beyond 60 or 70 miles.
Now, if you want to charge with a 3-pin socket and crave some voltage information, consider investing in a smart 3-pin plug charging. Keep in mind that charging with a standard 3-pin plug takes longer compared to using a dedicated EV charger. A regular household socket delivers 1.8kW to 2.3kW of power. For a Tesla Model 3 with a 50kWh battery, a full charge from empty could take around 28 hours with a 3-pin plug. Smaller batteries, like the Nissan Leaf’s 40kWh, might take anywhere from 10 to 20 hours.
The slow charging speed boils down to the lower power output from a household socket. While it’s possible to charge overnight with a 3-pin plug, it’s not recommended for regular use. Opting for public rapid chargers or installing a dedicated home charger, such as the Pod Point Solo 3 or Ohme ePod, can significantly slash charging times to just a few hours.
However, be cautious when using 3-pin plugs. They should be reserved for occasional backup due to their extremely slow charging speeds. With up to 8 miles of range per hour, charging overnight won’t get you to 100%, especially for batteries over 42kWh, which is the case for most electric vehicles.
Safety is another consideration. 3-pin sockets aren’t designed to deliver 2.3kW of power continuously for long periods. For perspective, a fridge only consumes around 400 watts. The risk of overheating and potential fire hazards is real, so handle 3-pin plugs with care!
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