Winter in Colorado can present unique challenges for electric vehicle (EV) owners, particularly when it comes to electric car charging. Cold weather can slow down battery efficiency, reduce range, and make charging times longer. However, with a few adjustments and the right setup, you can maintain optimal performance all winter long. As EV Plug Pros, based in Golden, Colorado, we understand these challenges firsthand and are here to help you keep your EV charged, no matter the conditions.
Why Cold Weather Affects Electric Car Charging
In Colorado, freezing temperatures are common, and this can negatively impact EV batteries. The chemical reactions within the battery slow down in the cold, making it harder for the battery to charge efficiently. Some may notice your vehicle’s range decreases by 20-40% and that it takes longer to recharge. This is normal, but with a few proactive steps, you can avoid the worst effects of cold weather on your EV.
How to Improve Electric Car Charging in Winter
1. Pre-condition Your EV for Charging Efficiency
Pre-conditioning your EV means warming up the battery before charging. Many vehicles have a pre-conditioning feature that can be activated while the car is plugged in, ensuring the battery reaches an ideal temperature for charging. This simple step helps reduce charging time and increases efficiency. At EV Plug Pros, we recommend using pre-conditioning, especially on the coldest days.
2. Charge More Frequently to Maintain Range
Cold weather can cause your EV’s battery to drain faster than usual, especially when you’re using the car’s heating system. Instead of waiting for your battery to drop to a lower charge level, we suggest charging more often in the winter to keep the battery warm and minimize stress. Frequent charging helps maintain a healthy battery and extends its lifespan, ensuring your EV performs well even in frigid conditions.
3. Keep Your Vehicle Plugged In When Parked
One of the best ways to combat cold temperatures is to keep your EV plugged in while it’s parked. This allows the battery to stay warm and maintain a higher state of charge. Whether you’re at home or work, plugging your EV into a charger keeps the battery ready for the road.
4. Charge in a Garage or Sheltered Space
If you can, charging your vehicle in a garage or another enclosed space can make a huge difference in cold weather. Even if the garage is unheated, it’s often warmer than outdoor temperatures, which helps maintain the battery’s temperature and improves charging speeds. If you’re concerned about installation, EV Plug Pros can help set up a charger in your garage or other convenient locations.
5. Plan for Longer Charging Times
Due to the slower chemical reactions inside the battery in cold weather, it’s normal to experience longer charging times. If you rely on public chargers, plan ahead by giving yourself extra time on your trips. For home EV charging, consider upgrading to a Level 2 charger to help mitigate this issue.
Winter-Specific Maintenance Tips
To ensure your EV performs optimally during the winter months, regular maintenance is key. At EV Plug Pros, we encourage our customers to:
- Inspect Your Charging Cables: Cold weather can make charging cables brittle, so regularly inspect them for wear and tear.
- Monitor Battery Health: Keep an eye on your EV’s battery health via the car’s monitoring system. This is especially important in winter, as cold weather can amplify any underlying battery issues.
Stay Charged with EV Plug Pros
At EV Plug Pros, we know the effects of Colorado’s winters better than anyone. As a locally based company in Golden, Colorado, we’ve helped countless homeowners and businesses in the front range set up efficient electric car charging systems designed to thrive in harsh climates. Whether you’re looking for a home charging station or need multiple chargers installed at your business, we offer expert guidance and turnkey installation services tailored to your specific needs.
Ready to ensure your EV is winter-ready? Request a quote from EV Plug Pros today to learn more about how we can help you stay charged all winter long. Stay warm, stay charged, and let EV Plug Pros handle all your electric car charging needs this winter!