Owning an electric vehicle is exciting, but if you’re still charging it whenever you get home, you could be leaving money on the table. At evNation, we help EV owners not only install the perfect home charging setup, but also save on their electricity bills by charging smarter.

Whether you’re a daily commuter, weekend roadtripper, or someone who’s just made the switch to electric, the time you charge your EV at home can make a big difference in your monthly expenses. Let’s break down when it is recommended to charge at home so you can maximize your savings with an evNation home-charging system. 

Understanding Time of Use Rates

Electricity isn’t always priced the same. Many utilities now offer time of use (TOU) plans, which assign different rates depending on the time of day. On-peak hours (usually late afternoon through early evening) are when the grid experiences its highest demand, and electricity costs more. Off peak hours, typically late at night to early morning, are when demand is low, and rates drop significantly.

For EV owners, this distinction is crucial. Charging during peak hours can cost much more, while charging during offpeak hours can translate into hundreds of dollars in annual savings. And the best part? Your car is parked and unused overnight anyway, this is what makes offpeak charging both convenient and cost effective.

When Is the Best Time to Charge?

We recommend the golden rule: charge overnight whenever possible. Most utilities designate late night hours as “super off peak” or “off peak,” which are the cheapest periods for electricity. By scheduling your EV to charge during these times you can avoid high rates and reduce strain on the electrical grid.

Some important factors to keep in mind that may change the degree of savings include:

• Seasonal Variations: In hotter climates, peak demand can extend later into the evening due to air conditioning usage. In colder climates, winter mornings may see early peak periods because of heating systems.
• TOU Plan Differences: Each utility’s time of use structure is unique. Some split the day into three or more periods, while others may offer weekend or seasonal discounts.
• WholeHome vs. EVOnly Rates: Some utilities apply TOU pricing to your entire home, while others apply it only to EV specific circuits. Knowing which applies to you can help finetune your savings strategy.

Even with these variables, one rule is consistent: offpeak charging = more savings.

How to Maximize Your Savings

evNation are the leading experts in savings-maximizations for EV Charging on the west coast and beyond. One of our most  popular install  options, our Level 2 chargers, are faster and more efficient than standard Level 1 outlets. With Level 2, your EV can charge fully overnight without spilling into peak hours. With advanced models you can automate your charging schedule so your car starts charging at the cheapest hours. We also offer an array of complete installation services: handling permits, wiring, and the implementation process. All the while, giving you a safe, reliable, and codecompliant setup that fits your home and your budget. 

Extra Tips for Smart Charging

• Pair with Solar or Battery Storage – If you have solar panels or a home battery, charge your EV when rates are lowest or when excess solar energy is available.
• Coordinate Other Appliances – Schedule laundry, dishwashers, and electric heating/cooling during offpeak hours if your TOU plan covers your entire home.
• Monitor Your Usage – Many smart chargers offer apps or dashboards so you can track your energy usage and cost savings in real time.

By combining a well planned schedule with the right charger, you not only save money, but you also make your EV ownership greener and smarter. That means saving money, reducing strain on the grid, and getting the most out of your investment. And for those reasons alone we are passionate about solar power. From expert charger installation and helping you understand TOU rates, we guide you every step of the way. Want to find out how much you could save with the right setup? Contact us today, and let’s design a home charging solution that works for your schedule, your wallet, and your lifestyle.