The Ultimate Guide to Selecting a Home EV Charger

Options to Consider

Price

The price of a home EV charger can vary widely, depending on the features and specifications. Some chargers are as low as $100, while others can cost upwards of $1,000. As the old saying goes, “You get what you pay for” so, if you decide to go with a low-cost option, ensure that it is from a reputable brand with the proper testing and certification.

Wi-Fi/Bluetooth Connectivity

Some EV chargers come with Wi-Fi and or Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to monitor the charging status and schedule charging times remotely. Many modern EVs come with built-in features that can make a charger with connectivity capabilities unnecessary. If you do not need these features, you can save money by choosing a charger that does not have them.

Cable Length

The length of an EV charger cable is also important to consider. If you have a long driveway or garage, or you have two EVs that need to be charged in one space, you will need a charger with a longer cable so that you can reach your cars. Some companies offer cable extenders, but we do not recommend using them unless they are properly tested and certified.

Connector Type

The connector type of an EV charger is another key factor to consider. Tesla models come with an NACS connector and most other vehicles use a standard J1772 connector. However, many major brands have made announcements that future models will come equipped with a NACS connector. Make sure to choose a charger that has the correct connector type for your car or be prepared to use an adapter.

NEMA 14-50 vs Hardwired

A NEMA 14-50 EV charger can be plugged and unplugged from an outlet like the one that is used for your clothes dryer. This allows you to take your charger on the road whenever you would like. Hardwired EV chargers are permanently connected to the electrical wiring in your home. While you cannot remove them without the help of a licensed electrician, they can charge electric vehicles at a faster and more reliable rate. Deciding between a NEMA 14-50 and a hardwired charger comes down to personal preference.

Power Output

The power output of an EV charger is measured in kilowatts (kW). The higher the kW rating, the faster your car will charge. If you have a long commute or need to charge your car quickly, you will need a charger with a high kW rating. Level 2 home chargers top out around 19 kW, but most electrical panels are not equipped to handle this size load. Most of our clients have found that any charger between 8 – 12 kW is more than enough for charging at home.

Certification

Some EV chargers are certified by the National Electrical Code (NEC), UL Solutions, and/or Energy Star. This means that they have been tested and meet safety standards. We always recommend choosing a certified charger to ensure the safety of your home and your car.

Warranty

Most EV chargers come with at least a one-year warranty. However, some manufacturers offer longer warranties. While warranty issues are not common, we recommend choosing a charger with a minimum of a two (2) year warranty, which should be long enough to cover any potential problems.

Some additional things to consider when selecting a residential EV charger: 

  • Read reviews from other EV owners. This can help you get a sense of which chargers are reliable and easy to use for your specific make and model. 
  • Contact Peak EV Solutions and we will ensure that you select the right charger for your specific needs. 

The Ultimate Guide to Selecting a Home EV Charger

Options to Consider

Price

The price of a home EV charger can vary widely, depending on the features and specifications. Some chargers are as low as $100, while others can cost upwards of $1,000. As the old saying goes, “You get what you pay for” so, if you decide to go with a low-cost option, ensure that it is from a reputable brand with the proper testing and certification.

Wi-Fi/Bluetooth Connectivity

Some EV chargers come with Wi-Fi and or Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to monitor the charging status and schedule charging times remotely. Many modern EVs come with built-in features that can make a charger with connectivity capabilities unnecessary. If you do not need these features, you can save money by choosing a charger that does not have them.

Cable Length

The length of an EV charger cable is also important to consider. If you have a long driveway or garage, or you have two EVs that need to be charged in one space, you will need a charger with a longer cable so that you can reach your cars. Some companies offer cable extenders, but we do not recommend using them unless they are properly tested and certified.

Connector Type

The connector type of an EV charger is another key factor to consider. Tesla models come with an NACS connector and most other vehicles use a standard J1772 connector. However, many major brands have made announcements that future models will come equipped with a NACS connector. Make sure to choose a charger that has the correct connector type for your car or be prepared to use an adapter.

NEMA 14-50 vs Hardwired

A NEMA 14-50 EV charger can be plugged and unplugged from an outlet like the one that is used for your clothes dryer. This allows you to take your charger on the road whenever you would like. Hardwired EV chargers are permanently connected to the electrical wiring in your home. While you cannot remove them without the help of a licensed electrician, they can charge electric vehicles at a faster and more reliable rate. Deciding between a NEMA 14-50 and a hardwired charger comes down to personal preference.

Power Output

The power output of an EV charger is measured in kilowatts (kW). The higher the kW rating, the faster your car will charge. If you have a long commute or need to charge your car quickly, you will need a charger with a high kW rating. Level 2 home chargers top out around 19 kW, but most electrical panels are not equipped to handle this size load. Most of our clients have found that any charger between 8 – 12 kW is more than enough for charging at home.

Certification

Some EV chargers are certified by the National Electrical Code (NEC), UL Solutions, and/or Energy Star. This means that they have been tested and meet safety standards. We always recommend choosing a certified charger to ensure the safety of your home and your car.

Warranty

Most EV chargers come with at least a one-year warranty. However, some manufacturers offer longer warranties. While warranty issues are not common, we recommend choosing a charger with a minimum of a two (2) year warranty, which should be long enough to cover any potential problems.

Some additional things to consider when selecting a residential EV charger: 

  • Read reviews from other EV owners. This can help you get a sense of which chargers are reliable and easy to use for your specific make and model. 
  • Contact Peak EV Solutions and we will ensure that you select the right charger for your specific needs. 

Get a FREE EV charger installation quote!

Charger Brands

Brand (Paid Links)Wi-Fi/Bluetooth ConnectivityCable LengthConnector TypePlug TypeRange Per HourCurrent and Power OutputIndoor/Outdoor CertifiedWarrantyEstimated Charger Only Cost
Autel MaxiChargerYes, includes mobile app25 FeetSAE J1772NEMA 14-50 or HardwiredUp to 37 milesAdjustable up to 50A and 12kWYes3 Year$599
Chargepoint Home FlexYes, Alexa compatible & ChargePoint app23 FeetSAE J1772NEMA 14-50 or HardwiredUp to 37 milesAdjustable up to 50A and 12kWYes3 Year$530
Emporia Electric Vehicle EV ChargerYes, includes mobile app24 FeetSAE J1772NEMA 14-50 or HardwiredUp to 37 milesAdjustable up to 48A and 11.5kWYes3 Year$399
Grizzl-EYes, Grizzl-E Smart app24 FeetSAE J1772NEMA 14-50 or HardwiredUp to 30 milesAdjustable up to 40A and 10kWYes3 Year$349
JuiceBox 40Yes, Alexa & Google compatible & JuiceNet app25 FeetSAE J1772NEMA 14-50 or HardwiredUp to 30 milesAdjustable up to 40A and 9.6kWYes3 Year$499
Lectron V-BoxNo20 FeetSAE J1772NEMA 14-50 or HardwiredUp to 46 milesAdjustable up to 48A and 9.2kWYes1 Year$500
J1772 NEMA 14-50 Plug EV Charger & J1772 to Tesla Adapter BundleNo21 FeetSAE J1772NEMA 14-50Up to 28 milesAdjustable up to 32A and 7.68kWYes4 Year$360
Wallbox Pulsar Plus 40AYes (Alexa & Google compatible)25 FeetSAE J1772NEMA 14-50 or HardwiredUp to 30 milesAdjustable up to 40A and 9.6kWYes3 Year$613
Tesla Wall ConnectorYes24 FeetTesla HardwiredUp to 44 miles48A and 9.6kWYes4 Year$475
Tesla AdapterSAE J1772Yes$50

What are the charger differences?

Level 1

Level 1

Charging a vehicle at “Level 1” means plugging in to a standard 120 volt outlet. All drivers can charge their EV at Level 1 and this requires no extra equipment or installation. On average, a full charging time is about 40-50 hours – but vary by model. Consult the automaker’s website for more information.

Level 2

Level 2

Charging a vehicle at “Level 2” means plugging into a 240 volt outlet. Home owners may decide to install a charging station – also known as Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) – in their home. This requires professional installation and an outlet type commonly utilized by home appliances like refrigerators and dryers. There are also many Level 2 chargers across the United States in public areas. On average, full charging time varies from 4 to 10 hours, but times vary by model. Consult the automaker’s website for more information.

DC Fast Charge

DC Fast Charge

Charging your vehicle using a CHAdeMO, SAE Combo plug or a Tesla Supercharger allows drivers to plug into “DC Fast Charge” networks where they are available. These types of chargers provide about 80 percent of a vehicle’s potential battery power in about 15 minutes. Again, times vary by model. Consult your manufacturer for more details.

Wireless Charging

Wireless Charging

Some of the latest models of plug-in vehicles have wireless charging capabilities that use “inductive charging” – allowing drivers to charge without plugging in. While this is a newer service under development, many manufacturers are beginning to focus on this convenience.

Resources

Alternative Fueling Station Locator

Find alternative fueling stations in the United States and Canada. For U.S. stations.

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