Adding Sustainability to Storage
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If you’ve invested in an electric vehicle, you likely already understand the importance of leading a more sustainable life. So, why not go the extra mile to safeguard your investment while continuing your sustainable strategies?
Even if you’ve tried to update your home to be more eco-friendly, the garage isn’t typically the first place people think of when they’re trying to foster sustainability. But, if you have an EV, it only makes sense to keep it safe and secure in an eco-friendly garage.
So, what can you do to “go green” in your garage? How can you ensure the longevity of your vehicle while minimizing your environmental impact?
Safeguarding Your EV
We probably don’t have to tell you that electric vehicles often come with a hefty price tag. The benefits of driving green certainly outweigh the cost, but you’ll get the most out of your vehicle and potentially extend its life if you take preventative measures to keep it safe–especially while storing it.
Preparing your garage for an electric car is slightly different than when you’re dealing with a gas-powered vehicle. You’ll need to install a home charging station, and it’s often worthwhile to consider investing in surge protection. The last thing you want is for an electrical surge to completely destroy your investment.
Additionally, moisture and electricity don’t mix. You’ll want to keep your car safe from water damage. Thankfully, there are a variety of eco-friendly materials you can use to waterproof your garage and keep your car safe, including:
- Non-toxic waterproof paint
- Weatherstrips
- Sustainable insulation
- Door sweeps
In addition to keeping moisture at bay, it’s also a good rule of thumb to keep your EV in a climate-controlled environment. Extremely cold and hot temperatures can affect the performance of your electric car by draining the battery faster. You’ll lose range if your car is constantly stored in an intemperate environment.
You can keep things moderate through insulation and green practices like sealing windows and fixing leaks, but it’s also worthwhile to install a smart thermostat in the garage that can keep the space at an ideal temperature for your vehicle. If you’re away at work all day, the garage can get a bit cooler. About an hour or so before you come home, you can program the thermostat to warm things up. You’ll save money on utilities, use less energy, and create the right environment for your EV while storing it.
The Importance of Storage
If you don’t have a closed garage for your EV, consider investing in some kind of shed or cover for it. Covering your car or parking it under a shelter will protect it from weather, reduce the risk of theft, help maintain its value and extend its life. The right storage solution will save you money and doesn’t have to damage the environment, either.
If you already have a garage but you’re using it to store other things, consider remodeling or renovating for a more practical and sustainable solution. A 2020 study found that EVs can save you hundreds of dollars each year in fuel and maintenance costs. You can save even more by transforming your garage or storage space with smart devices, LED lights, and proper insulation. Not only that, but you’ll be able to drive your eclectic vehicle longer and retain a higher trade-in value when you’re ready to invest in your next model. You may already have a great garage, but it is full of items that you no longer need. Now would be the perfect time to hire a dumpster to clear everything out so you can give your car a clear space to stay safe in. For size, 15 yard dumpsters would be the best as there are many 15 yard dumpster projects you can do with one of these, so take the time to go through your items and be ruthless.
It’s time to change the gas-fueled stereotypes surrounding today’s typical home garages. There is no reason why your garage can’t be more eco-friendly with a few simple changes. So, if you’ve already invested in an electric vehicle because you’re passionate about giving something back to the planet, consider giving it a home that will help it do its job effectively and efficiently.
The post Protecting Your EV in an Eco-Friendly Garage first appeared on Clean Fleet Report.
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