When you brought home your shiny new electric vehicle, it likely came with a Level 1 charger, which can only add 2 or 3 miles of range per hour. Upgrading to a Level 2 home EV charger can triple that speed – or more – and unlock a world of benefits, including lower electricity bills and potentially extending your car battery life. Imagine never having to visit a DC fast charging station for daily use, keeping your car fully charged, basically all the time.
However, before diving into the world of Level 2 home EV chargers, there are a few things to consider. While we’re moving towards a standardized charging plug system in the U.S., it’s a gradual process. If you own a non-Tesla EV, chances are your car uses a CCS or SAE J1772 connector. But to charge a Tesla with these connectors, you’ll need an adapter to convert them to Tesla’s NACS connector. Fortunately, many automakers are transitioning to the NACS connector, so within a few years, hopefully, all new EVs will use the same port, simplifying the charging process.
The good news is that many home chargers are now available with options for both SAE J1772 and NACS connectors. Even if your current EV doesn’t have NACS, considering a charger with this connector could be a smart move, especially if you plan on replacing your EV in the near future or adding a second EV to your family. You’ll be prepared for the future of EV charging!
Remember that Level 2 chargers require a dedicated 240-volt outlet, so you’ll need a larger outlet installed or the help of an electrician. Having an electrician wire in a new 240-volt outlet is usually a straightforward process. Before installation, ensure your home’s electrical system can handle the charging station. Manufacturers provide instructions to help you determine this.
Before making a final decision, it’s wise to explore local EV tax credits and incentives. Many local utilities offer generous rebates that could cover most or all of the cost of your charger. These incentives often favor smart, internet-connected chargers that can be remotely adjusted to reduce electricity usage during peak hours or brownouts. Always read the terms and conditions carefully to ensure you qualify for the rebates.
Now, let’s dive into the best home EV chargers available today:
ChargePoint Home Flex Electric Vehicle Charger:
ChargePoint, a familiar name in the public charging station network, offers the Home Flex for home charging. This latest model features adjustable amperage up to 50 amps, allowing owners to match their electrical panel’s or car’s capacity. The Home Flex can be scheduled to charge during off-peak hours, saving you energy and money. It’s available with NACS or J1772 connectors and comes in both plug-in and hardwired versions. The plug-in model can be used outdoors and includes a NEMA 14-50 or NEMA 5-50 plug. The Home Flex also integrates with the ChargePoint app and Amazon Alexa. Both models are Energy Star certified, making them the only chargers on this list with this distinction, which can be crucial for rebate eligibility.
Emporia EV Charger:
Emporia is known for its energy-monitoring expertise, and their EV Charger is a testament to that. Available as a plug-in or hardwired charger with J1772 or NACS connector options, it’s rated for outdoor use and can charge your vehicle at up to 11.5kW, providing a decent charging speed. With Wi-Fi connectivity, you can monitor charging through the connected app, even though the app design isn’t the most user-friendly. You can even get a breakdown of electricity pricing.
Tesla Wall Connector:
The Tesla Wall Connector is a sleek and well-designed option, especially if you own a Tesla. It can be monitored through the Tesla app, eliminating the need for additional apps. This charger is hardwired, so you’ll need a professional installer, and there’s no plug-in option. It features a 24-foot cord and is known for its affordable price. With the increasing adoption of NACS, this charger will become even more valuable. If you need both NACS and J1772, consider the Tesla Universal Wall Connector, which comes with a built-in adapter.
Tesla Universal Wall Connector:
For households with different plug types for different cars, the Tesla Universal Wall Connector is a great choice. While it’s more expensive than the NACS-only model, it comes with a built-in adapter that allows it to work with both NACS and J1772-equipped EVs. The adapter electronically locks onto the end of the cable, ensuring you don’t lose it. Like the standard Tesla Wall Connector, the Universal model has a 24-foot cord, a stylish design, and an output capacity of up to 48 amps. It can be controlled directly through the Tesla app.
JuiceBox 40 Charging Station:
The Enel JuiceBox, available in 32-amp or 40-amp models, is Wi-Fi enabled, allowing you to monitor and schedule charging using the JuiceNet mobile app or web portal. This charging station features a built-in cable rack, security lock, and options for hardwiring or plug-in models (with a NEMA 14-50 plug, or optional NEMA 14-30 or 10-30 plugs). The JuiceBox can also be controlled and monitored using Amazon Alexa or Google Home. It’s weatherproof, dust-tight, and made of polycarbonate, suitable for indoor or outdoor use. The JuiceBox is an excellent choice if you might own multiple EVs someday, as you can connect multiple JuiceBox charging stations to the same circuit. While not currently available with an NACS connector, that feature is expected soon.
Choosing the right home EV charger is a significant step towards simplifying your EV ownership experience. By considering your needs, budget, and local incentives, you can find the perfect solution to keep your EV fully charged and ready for your next adventure.
