Electricity Types: AC vs DC
Alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) are the two types of current electricity. AC is the current that comes from your outlets at home, while DC is the kind of current that comes from batteries.
While both forms of electricity can power your appliances, there are some critical differences between them. AC is capable of being transmitted over long distances, while DC is not. AC is also easier to generate than DC.
AC charging is generally used at home, and DC charging is used in the street, offices, and often at service stations. As a result, most home-based EV charging stations use AC electricity.
Why your EV may charge faster at a public charging point
Many people are unaware that their EV may charge faster at a public charging point.
DC power is used in electric vehicle batteries. When you use a home EV charger, AC electricity from your home's main supply is transmitted to the car, where the OBC (On-Board Charger) converts it to DC and charges the battery of an electric vehicle. Because different electric vehicles have OBCs with varying capabilities, this reduces the rate at which the car battery charges.
A Jaguar I-PACE, for instance, has an OBC rating of 7.4kW. This indicates that 7.4kW is the maximum charge rate for AC. The I-PACE can only charge at 7.4kW, even if your home charge station is capable of 22kW. At 22 kW, a Renault Zoe can charge.
Before it reaches the vehicle battery on a DC charger (found in offices and public charging stations), the charge point changes the AC into DC. As a result, the vehicle may charge much faster than it could at a home charge station because the OBC is no longer required to convert the current from AC to DC.
EV Charging Point Installations in Brighton
With all this in mind, it is still common practice to get an electric vehicle charger installed at your home for the sake of convenience, you can charge your vehicle overnight whilst you sleep, ensuring you are ready with a full battery for your day! Our NAPIT-certified electricians in Brighton, Portslade, Peacehaven and Hove specialise in installing EV chargers in homes.
You can reach us at 07935923323 or info@resistanceelectrical.co.uk to discuss your requirements, obtain an estimate, and schedule the job.
