How to Prepare for Chilly Temperatures
As the mercury dips, you might be asking yourself, "Is my electric vehicle (EV) ready for winter?" Winter weather can pose a unique set of challenges for EV owners, especially if you're navigating your first winter owning an EV in the Sterling, MA, area. Cold temperatures can impact your vehicle in ways you may not expect, making it crucial to be prepared.
Common challenges EV owners face in the winter can include:
- Reduced battery range
- Slower charging times
- Less efficient cabin heating
Here at DMH Electric Inc., we believe in empowering our customers with knowledge and practical tips for seamless EV operation in any weather. So, grab a hot cup of cocoa, and let's dive in!
Managing Winter Range & Battery Expectations
During the colder months, it's typical to see a decrease in the range of your electric vehicle. Just as your smartphone battery tends to deplete faster in chilly conditions, so too can your EV's battery experience diminished efficiency as temperatures drop. Considering this, we encourage you to research easily accessible charging options along your intended routes when taking trips or running errands.
Additionally, should your vehicle remain stationary for extended periods, we recommend keeping it connected to a charging source. By doing so, you maintain a steady state of charge that safeguards the battery's health and guarantees its readiness for your trips, regardless of the weather conditions.
Additional Tips for EV Owners in Winter
Preconditioning is an excellent feature available in many electric vehicles that allows you to warm up your car while it's still charging. This feature comes in handy during winter, ensuring your vehicle is comfortable and warm when ready to hit the road. It's particularly useful in extremely cold weather as it reduces the strain on the battery from heating your car.
We also strongly recommend keeping an emergency kit in your car. This kit should include essentials like blankets, non-perishable food, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit. Although this tip is suitable for everyone, it's especially crucial for EV owners who might find themselves waiting for a charge in cold conditions.
One last piece of advice is to plan ahead, especially when taking longer trips or driving out of your usual area. Research charging stations along your intended route and plan to stop sooner than you typically would to recharge your EV. This strategy ensures that you'll always have enough charge to reach your destination comfortably and safely despite winter's impact on battery performance.
The Convenience of Having a Home EV Charger
Understandably, the idea of being caught short without a charge is unsettling, especially during winter months. This concern highlights the true value of installing a home EV charger. During winter, when battery efficiency is compromised by the cold, having a charger right at your doorstep can be a game-changer. It allows you to plug in your vehicle overnight, ensuring it's ready for the day ahead.
At DMH Electric Inc., we offer reliable and efficient home EV charger installation services in Central Massachusetts, the Greater Boston Area, and Southern New Hampshire. Contact us today to learn more.