Home vs. Public Charging: Why Installing Your Own EV Station Makes Sense

 As electric vehicles (EVs) become more common, many drivers face the question: should I rely on public charging stations, or is it better to install an EV charger at home? Both options have their benefits, but if you own an EV—or plan to buy one—installing your own charging station at home is the smarter move for most people.

Let’s break down the differences between public and home charging, and explain why having your own station is more convenient, cost-effective, and reliable in the long run.

Orange electric vehicle charging at a wall-mounted EV charger in a modern, covered residential driveway with the "Mr. Electric, a Neighborly Company" logo in the corner.

Public Charging: Pros and Cons

Public charging stations are helpful, especially when you're away from home. You’ll find them in shopping centers, office buildings, hotels, and along highways. But while they offer accessibility, there are some clear drawbacks.

Pros:

  • Available in many areas: Easy to find in urban centers.

  • Fast charging options: Some stations offer DC fast charging.

  • Useful for long trips: Ideal when you're on the road and need a quick top-up.

Cons:

  • Can be crowded: Especially during peak hours or in busy areas.

  • Unpredictable availability: A charger may be occupied, broken, or offline.

  • Inconvenient waiting times: You might have to wait in line.

  • Cost adds up: Public chargers often cost more per kWh than home electricity rates.

  • App juggling: Many networks require different apps or cards to use.

Relying only on public chargers works, but it’s not ideal if you want convenience and control.

Why Home Charging Is the Better Option

Installing a home EV charging station makes everyday charging simple and stress-free. It turns your garage or driveway into a personal fueling station, always ready when you are.

1. Convenience

Charging your EV at home is as easy as plugging in your phone. No more detours to public stations or waiting in line.

  • Charge overnight: Plug in before bed and wake up to a full battery.

  • No schedule stress: Charge on your own time, without worrying about charger availability.

If you have a daily routine, home charging fits right into it without any extra effort.

2. Lower Cost

Home charging is generally cheaper than public charging. The average cost of electricity at home is lower than what you'd pay at a commercial station.

  • Off-peak rates: You can save even more by charging at night if your utility offers time-of-use pricing.

  • No subscription fees: Public networks often charge extra for memberships or fast-charging access.

Over time, the savings from home charging can be significant.

3. More Control and Customization

With your own charger, you’re in full control. You can choose the charging speed, set timers, and monitor energy use.

  • Smart chargers: Many models offer app controls, charging schedules, and usage reports.

  • Safety: You know your system is well-maintained and safe, especially when installed by a licensed professional.

You also avoid the wear and tear that comes from frequently using different public chargers.

Types of Home Chargers

There are two main types of EV chargers used at home:

Level 1 Charger (Standard 120V)

  • Comes with most EVs.

  • Plugs into a regular outlet.

  • Charges slowly—about 3-5 miles of range per hour.

Level 1 chargers are fine for short commutes, but they’re slow and not ideal for regular use.

Level 2 Charger (240V)

  • Requires professional installation.

  • Charges much faster—typically 25-30 miles of range per hour.

  • Best option for daily drivers.

If you want reliable, fast charging at home, a Level 2 charger is the way to go. It makes sure your car is always ready when you need it.

Why You Need a Professional for Installation

Installing a Level 2 charger isn’t a DIY project. It requires a dedicated 240V circuit and should follow local codes and safety standards. That’s where hiring a qualified electrician in Schertz becomes important.

A licensed electrician will:

  • Inspect your home’s electrical panel.

  • Safely install the charger and any new circuits.

  • Ensure your system is grounded and up to code.

  • Help you choose the right charger for your vehicle.

Companies like Mr. Electric of San Antonio provide professional EV charger installation services in the Schertz area. They’ll make sure the job is done safely and efficiently, so you can charge with confidence.

Is It Worth the Investment?

Yes. Installing a home EV charging station comes with an upfront cost, but the long-term benefits outweigh it:

  • Added home value: Buyers are looking for EV-ready homes.

  • Lower charging costs: Save money over time by using cheaper home electricity.

  • More independence: No need to rely on public infrastructure.

  • Time savings: Skip trips to the charging station.

In many cases, there are also rebates and incentives available through utility companies or government programs, which can reduce your out-of-pocket costs.

What to Consider Before Installing

Before you install a home charger, think about:

  • Where you’ll place it: Garage or outdoor wall?

  • Your driving habits: Daily mileage affects how fast you’ll need to charge.

  • Electrical capacity: Is your panel ready, or does it need an upgrade?

  • Future-proofing: Planning to get another EV in the future?

Discussing these with a local electrician will help you make the right decisions.

Final Thoughts

Public charging has its place, especially for road trips or in emergencies. But for daily life, nothing beats the ease and efficiency of home charging. It’s reliable, cost-effective, and stress-free.

If you live in Schertz or nearby and are ready to install your own EV charger, hiring an experienced electrician in Schertz is the first step. They’ll guide you through the process, handle the installation, and make sure everything runs smoothly.

Your EV is smart—your charging setup should be too.

Need help getting started?

Reach out to Mr. Electric of San Antonio for expert EV charger installation in Schertz. Their licensed electricians will help you charge smarter, safer, and more conveniently—right from home.

Location: San Antonio, TX, USA

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