Can You Leave an Electric Vehicle (EV) Plugged in for Days?

Have you bought an EV? Are you interested in buying an EV? Electric vehicles (EVs) have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their numerous benefits, including environmental friendliness, cost-effectiveness, and reduced maintenance. As with any new technology, there are concerns and questions about how to use and maintain EVs properly. One question that often arises is whether leaving an EV plugged in for several days is safe. Do you want an answer? Please read this post to understand all the aspects in detail.

Understanding the Most Common EV Charging System

Before we delve into the topic of leaving an EV plugged in for a few days, let’s first understand how EV charging works. EVs are powered by batteries that require regular charging to function correctly. The charging process is relatively simple, and you can do this in two ways:

Level 1 Charging

It is the slowest way to charge an EV. It involves plugging the vehicle into a standard 120-volt outlet, which can take up to 20 hours to charge a depleted battery fully.

Level 2 Charging

It is much faster than Level 1 charging. It requires a 240-volt outlet and a charging station installed at home or in public charging stations. Depending on the battery size, it can charge a depleted battery in 4–8 hours.

Most EVs can charge using Level 1 and Level 2 charging. Some models can also charge using Level 3 or DC Fast Charging, which can charge an EV battery to 80% in as little as 30 minutes. However, Level 3 charging is unsuitable for regular charging and should only be used in emergencies or when traveling long distances.

Is it Safe to Leave an EV Plugged in for Days?

Now you have a basic idea about the charging process. Let’s address whether leaving an EV plugged in for a few days is safe.

The answer is yes. Theoretically, leaving an EV plugged in for several days is safe. The EV’s onboard charger will automatically stop charging the battery once it reaches a full charge. Furthermore, modern EV batteries are designed to be durable and can withstand long charging hours without any harm.

If you ask my opinion, I do not recommend leaving your EV plugged in for a few days. I think maintaining a battery range of 40%-80% is more important for the long-term performance of the battery.

However, if you plan to leave your EV plugged in for a few months, it is essential to ensure that the charging station and the charging cable are in good condition. Regularly inspect the charging cable for any signs of wear and tear, such as frayed wires or cracks in the insulation. If you notice any damage to the cable, you should replace it before leaving your EV plugged in for days.

It is also essential to ensure that the charging station is functioning correctly. If you are thinking of installing a home charging station, please consult a professional electrician to ensure that it is wired correctly and meets all electrical codes and regulations. If you are using a public charging station, make sure that it is a reputable station and has a good reputation for reliability and safety.

3 Top Benefits of Leaving an EV Plugged in for Days

Though I do not support this charging method, still, if you are considering the benefits of leaving an EV plugged in, then continue reading. Some of the benefits are:

Convenient Performance

Leaving an EV plugged in for several days eliminates the need to remember to charge the vehicle regularly. If you are busy, then it will give you a lot of convenience during busy working hours.

Battery Longevity

EV batteries degrade over time, particularly if they are frequently discharged and charged. Leaving an EV plugged in for several days can help maintain the battery’s state of charge, which can extend its overall lifespan.

However, there is another side to this story; in my opinion, if you always maintain 100% battery, then it will degrade quickly over time.

Cost Savings

EVs can be cheaper to operate than gas-powered vehicles, but the cost savings can be further maximized by taking advantage of time-of-use electricity rates. By leaving your EV plugged in during off-peak hours, you can take advantage of lower electricity rates, which can result in significant cost savings.

6 Essential Tips for Leaving an EV Plugged in for Days

If you plan on leaving your EV plugged in for days, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Make sure that the charging station and charging cable are in good condition before leaving the EV plugged in.
• Consider using a smart charging station that can monitor the battery’s state of charge and adjust the charging rate accordingly.
• If you are leaving your EV plugged in for an extended period, consider reducing the charging rate to reduce unnecessary stress on the battery.
• Ensure that the charging station is properly installed and meets all electrical codes and regulations.
• Check the state of charge of your EV battery periodically to ensure that it is not overcharged or undercharged.
• If you are leaving your EV plugged in for days, consider disconnecting any unnecessary accessories or devices that may drain the battery.

I recommend not plugging in your EVs for a long time unless necessary. Keep the battery within a range of 40% to 80% for optimized battery performance. Now if you feel it is safe and you want to take the above benefits, please consult a local EV technician for a detailed analysis of the EV model and charging system.

Learn more on this topic:

Is It Harmful to Leave Your EV Plugged in All the Time? What is the Effect of Rain on Electric Vehicles?

Originally published at https://www.aimforcent.com.