A car charging station consists of one or more units that look similar to the pumps found in a traditional gas station. Users can simply pull up, remove the hose from the unit and plug the cord right into the outlet on their vehicles. It takes just a few minutes for the battery to charge, though it may take longer for the vehicle to receive a full charge. Pay stations give drivers the option of selecting an option to pay as they go, which lets them pay each time they need a charge, but they can also select a monthly subscription rate that gives them a set amount of usage each month.

Who Needs a Station?

Anyone who drives or owns an electric car needs a charging station. Even if they live in a heavily populated area, there is no guarantee that they'll reach a station before their vehicles run out of power. Having a charging station at their homes lets them plug in their vehicles the night before and wake to find the vehicle fully charged. They can also use the stations to check the power levels of their vehicles before leaving the house.

Things to Consider Before Installing a Charging Station

There are several things to consider before installing a charging station, including the cost of hardware. Shoppers can find the hardware and components needed for installation at most home improvement stores, but they'll need a professional to install those components. Another factor that electric vehicle owners should consider is the portability of the system. Some of the more expensive systems contain a small battery that they can take with them to charge their vehicles, but drivers usually need to plug in this device every night to keep it charged.

Many people will also want to consider the amperage capacity of the system, including the amount of energy that it provides and the amount of energy it uses. A system that uses too much electricity may overpower a home's electrical system. Others will want to consider the length of the charging a cord. A good cord should be long enough that it can reach the vehicle anywhere it sits around the driveway or garage.

Tax Incentives

Those interested in driving electric cars will find that there may be some tax incentives available. The federal government offers incentives of up to $7,500 for those who purchase hybrid or electric vehicles. Plug It America worked with the government to create incentives for those who add electric charging stations as well. This program lets homeowners and business owners deduct 30 percent of the cost of installing a charging station, and it lets them get back up to $1,000 of the total amount they spent on the installation.

Factors That Determine Cost

Many people want to know exactly how much a vehicle charging station will cost, but the cost of that installation depends on several things. One thing that can significantly impact the cost is any permits needed. Business owners will need permits to make notable changes to an existing business, and some homeowners may need permits for the electrical work needed.

The breaker box used by the system can also increase or lower the total cost. Most of these systems require a 240-volt circuit, and if the home needs a new breaker capable of transporting this level of energy, the price will rise. The wires that run from the breaker box to the system can also increase the price, especially if the system needs new wires or longer wires.

Most people will also need to look at the type of system and the features of that system. A system that is Wi-Fi enabled will usually cost a little more. Some systems use a single cord that users can plug into any outlet and then into their vehicles, but other systems are much more complicated and require a breaker box and a permanent electric connection.