When you got your brand-new electric vehicle, it probably came with a home charging cord—but that’s usually a Level 1 charger, which adds only two or three miles of range per hour. Upgrading to a Level 2 home EV charger can significantly speed up the process, adding range much faster and offering various features to help reduce your electricity bill and extend your car battery’s life.
In other words, you can easily keep your car charged at home without needing to visit a DC fast charging station unless you’re on a long road trip. This ensures that your car will be fully charged for daily use.
Before buying a home EV charger, there are a few things to consider. Most chargers today use the SAE J1772 connector, which works with most modern electric vehicles, except for Teslas which need an adapter. However, in the coming years, many car manufacturers will switch to the Tesla NACS connector. It’s also crucial to know that Level 2 chargers require a 240-volt outlet and can’t be plugged into a standard 120-volt outlet. You need to ensure your home’s electrical system can handle the charger, and manufacturers usually provide guidelines on how to determine that.
Additionally, check for local EV tax credits and incentives before purchasing a charger. Many utilities offer rebates that can cover most or all of the cost if you choose the right model. These rebates usually favor smart chargers that are connected to the internet and can be remotely adjusted during power shortages. Always read the terms and conditions to make sure you comply with them.
Here are the top home EV chargers from the best manufacturers:
The Enel JuiceBox
The Enel JuiceBox comes in 32-amp or 40-amp models and is Wi-Fi-enabled. You can monitor and schedule charging via the JuiceNet mobile app or web portal. The charger includes a built-in cable rack and security lock. It’s available as a hardwired option or a plug-in model with a NEMA 14-50 plug, and optional NEMA 14-30 or 10-30 plugs. The JuiceBox can also be controlled with Amazon Alexa or Google Home. It’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor use since it’s weatherproof and dust-tight. If you plan to own multiple EVs in the future, multiple JuiceBox units can share the same circuit, making it a smart choice.
ChargePoint Home Flex
ChargePoint, known for its network of public charging stations, offers the Home Flex for home charging. This model provides adjustable amperage up to 50 amps, so you can match your electrical panel’s or car’s capacity. The plug-in version can be used outdoors and comes with a NEMA 14-50 or NEMA 5-50 plug. The Home Flex works with the ChargePoint app, Nest, and Amazon Alexa. Both models are Energy Star certified, which might be important for certain rebates. The ChargePoint app lets you control and monitor charging and even locate and pay for public charging.
Lectron 32 NEMA 14-50 EV Charger
If you’re looking for something straightforward, the Lectron 32 NEMA 14-50 EV charger might be for you. It doesn’t offer Wi-Fi connectivity but charges at a decent speed without additional costs for extra features. It’s compact, making it a good option for those with space constraints. This 32-amp charger can be used both indoors and outdoors, can be plugged in or hardwired, and uses the J1772 connector, compatible with most non-Tesla EVs.
Electrify HomeStation Charger
If you frequently charge on the go and have used Electrify America charging stations, the Electrify HomeStation charger is worth considering. It can be managed through the same app as the Electrify America fast chargers, making it easy to monitor charging. The cord length is among the longest available, suitable for those needing extra reach. It can be used indoors and outdoors and features the J1772 connector.
Tesla Wall Connector
The Tesla Wall Connector is especially useful for Tesla owners. It integrates with the Tesla app and has the Tesla NACS connector. It can also be used with non-Tesla cars via an adapter. As more car manufacturers switch to the Tesla connector, fewer people will need the adapter. This charger is hardwired, so a professional installation is required. It has a 24-foot cord and is reasonably priced.