The 7 Biggest EV Charging Mistakes and How to Fix Them!
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more popular in Canada, and for good reason! They offer an eco-friendly way to drive, lower fuel costs, and cutting-edge technology. However, many EV owners make costly charging mistakes that can impact their car’s battery life, range, and even electricity bills. Whether you own a 2025 Kia EV9, Kia EV6, or Kia Niro EV, avoiding these errors will save you time, money, and hassle.
In this guide, we’ll break down the 7 biggest EV charging mistakes and how you can fix them. Plus, we’ll show you where to get the best EV chargers and deals on Kia hybrid and electric vehicles at Kia 417!
Get Genuine Kia EV Parts/Charger at the lowest Price – Kia 417!1. Charging to 100% Every Time
The Mistake:
Many EV drivers believe they should always charge their battery to 100%, just like filling up a gas tank. However, keeping your battery at full charge for extended periods can degrade battery health over time.
How to Fix It:
For daily driving, aim to keep your charge between 20% and 80%. Reserve 100% charging only for long road trips.
| Charging Habit | Battery Life Impact |
|---|---|
| Charging to 100% frequently | Reduced battery lifespan |
| Keeping charge between 20%-80% | Optimal battery health |
2. Ignoring Cold Weather Charging Tips
The Mistake:
In Canada’s harsh winters, EV batteries lose efficiency. Cold weather can slow down charging speeds and reduce range by up to 30%.
How to Fix It:
- Pre-condition your battery before charging in winter.
- Park in a garage to retain warmth.
- Use a Level 2 charger for better efficiency. Get a Kia Level 1 or Level 2 Charger at Kia 417!
| Temperature (°C) | Estimated Range Loss (%) |
| 0°C (32°F) | 10-15% |
| -10°C (14°F) | 15-25% |
| -20°C (-4°F) | 25-30% |
3. Relying Only on Public Chargers
The Mistake:
While public charging stations are great for long trips, depending on them can lead to delays and higher costs. Public fast charging is also more expensive compared to home charging.
How to Fix It:
- Install a Level 2 home charger for daily charging.
- Plan your public charging stops strategically for road trips.
- Take advantage of special offers on Kia EVs!
| Charging Type | Cost per kWh (CAD) | Cost per kWh (USD) |
| Home Charging | $0.13 – $0.20 | $0.10 – $0.15 |
| Public Level 2 | $0.30 – $0.50 | $0.25 – $0.40 |
| DC Fast Charging | $0.60 – $0.80 | $0.45 – $0.65 |
4. Using the Wrong Charger for Your Needs
The Mistake:
Not all chargers are created equal! Using a Level 1 charger (120V) for an EV with a large battery can take over 24 hours for a full charge.
How to Fix It:
- Level 1 Chargers (120V) – Suitable for plug-in hybrids (PHEVs).
- Level 2 Chargers (240V) – Best for daily home EV charging.
- DC Fast Chargers – Ideal for long road trips.
| Charger Type | Charging Speed (km/h) | Charging Speed (miles/h) |
| Level 1 (120V) | 6-8 km/h | 4-5 miles/h |
| Level 2 (240V) | 30-50 km/h | 18-30 miles/h |
| DC Fast Charging | 250-400 km in 30 min | 150-250 miles in 30 min |
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Get Genuine Kia EV Level 1 or Level 2 Charger at the lowest Price – Kia 417!5. Overpaying for EV Charging
The Mistake:
Many drivers don’t compare charging costs, leading to unnecessary spending at high-priced charging stations.
How to Fix It:
- Charge at home overnight to benefit from lower electricity rates.
- Use apps like PlugShare or ChargeHub to find cheaper charging stations.
- Take advantage of free workplace chargers.
| Location | Cost per Full Charge (CAD) | Cost per Full Charge (USD) |
| Home (off-peak) | $5 – $8 | $4 – $6 |
| Public Level 2 | $12 – $18 | $9 – $14 |
| DC Fast Charger | $20 – $35 | $15 – $28 |
6. Not Checking Charging Station Availability
The Mistake:
Arriving at a public charger only to find it occupied wastes time and disrupts travel plans.
How to Fix It:
- Use apps like ChargePoint or Tesla’s Supercharger network to check charger availability.
- Book a charging slot in advance at select locations.
- Have a backup charging location mapped out.
7. Ignoring Battery Health Best Practices
The Mistake:
Just like smartphones, EV batteries degrade over time. Poor charging habits can reduce battery capacity faster than expected.
How to Fix It:
- Avoid frequent rapid charging.
- Charge only when necessary.
- Keep your battery between 20% and 80% for everyday use.
Final Thoughts: Charge Smart and Save More!
By avoiding these 7 common EV charging mistakes, you can maximize your Kia EV’s battery life, save money, and enjoy hassle-free driving. Whether you’re considering an EV or hybrid, now is the perfect time to explore the latest Kia electric vehicles at Kia 417.
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Explore New 2025 Kia EV/Hybrid Models at Kia 417!Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How long does it take to charge an EV at home?
- A Level 2 charger takes 4-8 hours for a full charge, while a Level 1 charger may take over 24 hours.
- Is it bad to charge my EV overnight?
- No, as long as you use a smart charger that stops at 80% to preserve battery life.
- Can cold weather damage my EV battery?
- Cold temperatures reduce efficiency but don’t permanently damage the battery if managed properly.
- What’s the cheapest way to charge my EV?
- Charging at home during off-peak hours is the most cost-effective method.
- How do I find the best public chargers?
- Use apps like ChargePoint, PlugShare, or ChargeHub to locate nearby stations.
- Can I use a Tesla charger for my Kia EV?
- Only with an adapter compatible with non-Tesla EVs.
- Does frequent fast charging damage my battery?
- Yes, using DC fast chargers frequently can degrade battery health over time.
- What’s the difference between Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast charging?
- Level 1 is slow (120V), Level 2 is optimal for home (240V), and DC fast charging is best for road trips.
- Can I install a Level 2 charger at home?
- Yes, with a dedicated 240V circuit installed by an electrician.
- What’s the lifespan of an EV battery?
- Typically 8-15 years, depending on charging habits and usage.
