One of the most common questions we receive from Orlando homeowners considering an EV charger installation is about the impact on their monthly electric bill. The short answer is yes, your electric bill will increase when you charge your electric vehicle at home, but understanding the full picture reveals why this is actually excellent news for your wallet.
Understanding Home EV Charging Costs
When you install a Tesla Wall Connector or other Level 2 charger at your home, you are essentially trading gasoline costs for electricity costs. The average electric vehicle requires approximately 30 kilowatt-hours (kWh) to travel 100 miles. In Florida, where the average electricity rate hovers around 12 to 14 cents per kWh, this translates to roughly $3.60 to $4.20 per 100 miles of driving.
Compare this to a gasoline-powered vehicle that gets 30 miles per gallon. At current gas prices of approximately $3.50 per gallon, you would spend around $11.67 to travel the same 100 miles. This means charging at home costs roughly one-third of what you would spend on gasoline, resulting in significant annual savings despite the increase in your electric bill.
Calculating Your Expected Increase
The average American drives approximately 13,500 miles per year. For an electric vehicle owner charging exclusively at home, this translates to an additional $40 to $50 per month on your electric bill. However, this replaces the $150 to $200 per month you would otherwise spend on gasoline, creating net savings of $100 to $150 monthly.
Several factors influence your actual costs. The efficiency of your specific vehicle plays a significant role, as some EVs consume more energy than others. Your driving habits, including highway versus city driving and use of climate control, also affect energy consumption. Additionally, the time of day you charge can impact costs if your utility offers time-of-use rates.
Maximizing Your Savings with Smart Charging
Many Florida utility companies, including Duke Energy and OUC, offer special EV charging rates or time-of-use plans that provide significantly reduced electricity rates during off-peak hours, typically overnight. By programming your Tesla Wall Connector to charge during these hours, you can reduce your per-kWh rate by 30 to 50 percent.
Smart chargers allow you to schedule charging sessions to take advantage of these lower rates automatically. This set-it-and-forget-it approach ensures your vehicle is fully charged each morning while minimizing your electricity costs. Some homeowners have reported paying as little as $25 per month for all their charging needs by utilizing off-peak rates strategically.
The Total Cost of Ownership Perspective
When evaluating the impact on your electric bill, it is essential to consider the complete picture. Electric vehicles have significantly lower maintenance costs than traditional vehicles. There are no oil changes, transmission fluid replacements, or exhaust system repairs. Brake pads last longer due to regenerative braking. These savings, combined with lower fuel costs, typically offset any increase in your electric bill many times over.
Furthermore, installing a Level 2 home charger adds value to your property. As electric vehicles become increasingly popular, homes with existing charging infrastructure are more attractive to potential buyers. This investment not only saves you money monthly but also enhances your home long-term resale value.
Professional Installation Matters
Working with a licensed electrician for your EV charger installation ensures your electrical system operates efficiently and safely. Proper installation prevents energy waste and potential electrical issues that could increase costs. Our team at ChargeOrlando specializes in optimizing your home charging setup for maximum efficiency and minimum impact on your electric bill.
Ready to start saving money on fuel while enjoying the convenience of home charging? Contact ChargeOrlando today for a free consultation and quote on professional Tesla Wall Connector installation in the Orlando area.
