7 Best Home EV Chargers 2023
With more and more electric vehicles (EVs) on the market, it is becoming increasingly important to have a reliable and efficient home EV charger as more and more drivers are making the switch from combustion engine cars to electric vehicles.
As the electric vehicle charging station infrastructure is not yet catching up with the new demand, especially in rural areas, also prices at these stations are high, though cheaper than gas, it is much more cost effective to invest a home charger which, for a modest ouylay, offers a convenient, and cheaper, way to charge your vehicle from the comfort of your own driveway either during the day or overnight.
Whether you are looking for an economical alternative or the most advanced technology available, there is an electric vehicle charger out there for you.
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Features To Consider When Choosing A Home EV Charger
When choosing a home EV charger, there are several important features to consider to ensure you choose the right one for your needs. Here are some of the most important features to look for:
- Charging Speed: The charging speed of the charger will affect how quickly you can charge your electric car. Consider how much time you have to charge your car and how often you need to charge it when choosing a charger.
- Connection Type: The connection type of the charger will depend on the make and model of your electric car. Some chargers require a hardwired connection, while others can be plugged into a standard outlet.
- Compatibility – Ensure the charger works with your EV’s battery type and charging port.
- Smart Features: Some EV chargers come with smart features such as WiFi connectivity and scheduling options. These features can make it easier to monitor your charging sessions and ensure your car is charged when you need it.
- Power output – A higher amperage/kilowatt rating delivers faster charging. At least 30 amps is recommended.
- Safety rating – Choose a UL listed, weatherproof charger made for outdoor installation if needed.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: The charger will be exposed to the elements, so it’s important to choose one that is durable and weather-resistant. Look for chargers that are built to withstand rain, snow, and extreme temperatures.
By considering these important features when choosing a home EV charger, you can ensure you choose a charger that meets your needs and helps you get the most out of your electric car.
Do You Need a Smart WiFi Connected Charger?
Smart EV chargers that connect to your home WiFi offer some nice benefits:
- Remotely monitor charging status and history from an app.
- Schedule charging sessions to take advantage of lower electricity rates.
- Adjust charging amperage if needed.
- Set charging priorities between multiple vehicles.
- Get software updates to the charger over WiFi.
- Integrate with third party services like Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.
While not absolutely necessary, a smart WiFi EV charger provides more flexibility and potential cost savings compared to a non-connected charger. The main drawback would be the extra cost. Expect to pay at least $100 more for a WiFi enabled charger.
Level 1 vs Level 2 Home Chargers – Which Do You Need?
There are two main levels of EV charging that work for home installation:
Level 1 uses a standard 120V household outlet and the portable charging cable that comes with your EV. It provides about 2-5 miles of range per hour of charging. This is the slowest charging option and generally only practical for infrequent charging.
Level 2 requires installing a dedicated 240V outlet and charging station. It provides 10-25 miles per hour of charge time. Level 2 charging is best for overnight, daily use as it can fully recharge most EVs in 4-8 hours.
Most EV owners will want to install a Level 2 charger at home. While pricier upfront, it provides the fastest charging speeds possible for home and makes daily charging very convenient. Think of Level 1 as an occasional backup option if needed.
If installing a Level 2 charger, aim for at least 30 amps of power. This equates to about 25 miles of range per hour of charging for most EVs. Faster 40-50 amp chargers are available but may require electrical service upgrades. Check with an electrician on the best option for your home.
How Much Does Home EV Charger Installation Cost?
Installing a 240V Level 2 EV charger at your home typically costs $600-$1200 including parts and labor. A basic installation with existing 240V wiring nearby can cost as little as $500. More complex jobs with longer wire runs or electrical upgrades can be $2,000 or more.
The EVSE wall mounted unit itself ranges from $200-$1000 depending on charging speed and features. Level 2 installation requires a 240V circuit with appropriate amperage rating. If your electrical service panel needs an upgrade to accommodate EV charging, that will increase costs too.
Many local electricians and EV charging providers offer installation services. Some EV brands and charging networks also offer discounted installation with purchase of their charger equipment. Tax credits, rebates and incentives available in your area can help offset installation costs too.
To keep EV charger installation costs down, place it where there’s easy access to your main electrical panel. Minimize wire run lengths and avoid upgrades to your electrical service. Get quotes from multiple electricians and compare pricing.
Best Home EV Chargers To Consider
Here are our picks for the best home EV chargers this year based on performance, features, value and ease of installation:
#1 ChargePoint Home Flex Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger
Level 2, 240 volt electric vehicle (EV) charging station charges any EV up to 9X faster than a normal wall outlet, with flexible amperage settings up to 50 amps (16/24/32/40/48/50 Amp) and plug-in or hardwired installation. Use the ChargePoint app to pick the right amperage for your home after installation.
The universal J1772 ensure this works with all electric cars, tested on leading EV models: Chevrolet Volt and Bolt EV, Nissan LEAF, Tesla models, Toyota Prius Prime, BMW i3, Honda Clarity, and many more
Easy for any electrician to install indoors or out. Comes with a 23ft cable. Plug-in installation with NEMA 6-50 or 14-50 outlet (6-50 currently selected) requires circuits rated 40A or 50A. For other circuit ratings, including 60A-80A for 48A-50A charging, the plug is easily removed for hardwired installation. Select the amperage that works best for you and your home.
This EV charger also features WiFi connectivity so you can monitor your charging progress remotely using the ChargePoint app.
Built-in safety features such as surge protection, temperature control, and overload protection to ensure safe operation at all times.
#2 JuiceBox 40 Smart Electric Vehicle Charging Station
The JuiceBox 40 Smart Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station with WiFi is perfect for EV owners who need a convenient and efficient way to charge their vehicles.
Built on the universal J1772 charging standard, JuiceBox is a Level 2 charging station that can power all electric vehicles on the market today, including Tesla via a Tesla-provided adapter.
This station has a 25-foot cable, energy star certification, and an indoor-outdoor use NEMA 14-50 plug, making it ideal for busy homes or workplaces.
With 40 amp Level 2 EVSE, this charging station is powerful enough to quickly charge EVs in short periods of time. Whether you’re at home or on the go, you can rest assured that your car will be ready to hit the road when you are.
Charging Station is UL certified and designed with safety in mind. Its advanced circuitry design provides protection from overloads and overcharging, so you can trust that your vehicle is being charged safely and reliably.
Features integrated Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to access real-time notifications about your charging progress via the JuiceNet mobile application. Additionally, this charger includes smart scheduling technology that allows you to control when your vehicle is being charged—helping you save time and money in the process.
#3 Lectron NEMA 14-50 Level 2 EV Charger
This Lectron NEMA 14-50 Level 2 EV Charger is specially designed to support all J1772 EVs so basically most EVs including Tesla, Chevrolet Volt, and Nissan Leaf models. It includes a 21 ft extension cord and a J1772 cable for easy installation and use.
The 240V 32 Amp charger provides maximum efficiency, allowing your electric vehicle to charge quickly and safely.
Comes with several convenient features, including an LED charging indicator light and an integrated ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) for added safety. It also has a built-in protective casing that helps reduce wear and tear.
The EV Charger is made of durable materials that are designed to last for years. Its rugged design ensures that it won’t get damaged by exposure to the elements.
#4 Emporia Level 2 Electric Vehicle Charger
Emporia Level 2 Electric Vehicle Charger is powerful, providing up to 48 amp 11.5kW of power and a 240V connection with a 24-foot cable for reliable charging.
J1772 connector to support all makes of EV including Tesla (adapter required for Tesla EVs)
Choose between a NEMA 14-50 plug or hardwired connection for the ultimate flexibility in terms of installation.
HARDWIRED OR PLUGGED INSTALLATION – 11.5kW (240V/48A) / 9.6kW (240V/40A) / 10kW (208V/48A) / 8.3kW (208V/40A) (up to 48A hardwired or up to 40A NEMA Type 14-50P with 22″ cable compliant with 2017 NEC Section 625.17(A)(3)). Requires a dual-pole, dedicated breaker at 60A+ for a 48A charge or 50A+ for a 40A charge. A professional electrician is recommended for hardwiring or installing a NEMA Plug.
Thanks to its built-in Wi-Fi connection, the EV Charger offers remote access that allows you to monitor and control your charging activity from wherever you are.
Designed to last for many years of reliable service. It also features built-in safety mechanisms to ensure your safety while charging your vehicle.
Comes with LED indicators that show when your vehicle is charging successfully as well as important information like power status and charge speed.
#5 ClipperCreek 32 Amps, Level 2, 240 Volts, HCS-40
The ClipperCreek 32 Amps, Level 2, 240 Volts, HCS-40 EV Charger is designed for both indoor and outdoor use with a durable stainless steel enclosure and 25 foot charging cable. This charger is built to last, providing reliable performance in any weather condition.
With up to 31 miles of range per hour of charging, you’ll never have to worry about running out of power again. The ClipperCreek HCS-40 charger quickly replenishes your car’s battery so you can get back on the road faster.
This charger is compatible with all electric vehicles on the market today. You won’t have to worry about compatibility issues with your make or model, including Tesla (but you need a Tesla adapter), – this universal charger works with them all.
The ClipperCreek comes equipped with advanced safety features including a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection switch and a customizable delayed start timer for added security when charging away from home.
#6 Grizzl-E Level 2 EV Charger
The Grizzl-E Level 2 EV Charger is perfect for those who want to charge their electric vehicles quickly and conveniently. With 16, 24, 32, and 40 amp settings, this charger provides a fast charge.
This charger is designed to withstand the elements with its durable NEMA 14-50 plug 06-50 plug and the 24 foot cable gives you plenty of room to maneuver. The UL listed components make this charger safe for use in any environment.
This EV charger offers maximum compatibility with all standard electric vehicles including Tesla models. It’s also compatible with most home outlets up to 50 amps.
The Grizzl-E Level 2 EV Charger comes with several safety features that help ensure your charging experience remains safe and secure. These features include overcharge protection, undervoltage protection, temperature control protection, current limitation protection, surge protection and more.
#7 Autel MaxiCharger Home Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger
This Level 2 EV charger is designed with advanced technology, including WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities, so you can easily monitor your vehicle’s charging progress even when you’re away from home. It’s also capable of charging up to 50 Amps, ensuring a faster charge for your electric vehicle every time.
A durable 25-foot cable, sturdy construction, and high-grade materials provide maximum weather resistance. A NEMA 4 protection rating provides safe and reliable indoor and outdoor usage in any climate.
Comes with several safety features, such as overcurrent protection, short circuit protection, and ground fault protection. These safety features ensure that your vehicle remains safe while being charged at all times.
Helps you save energy by monitoring the power consumption of your electric vehicle during charging. It automatically adjusts its power output depending on the needs of your vehicle for maximum efficiency.
Compatible with all models of car.
Frequently Asked Questions
Finding the Best Home EV Charger – Conclusion
With drivers adopting EVs faster than ever, having a convenient at-home charging solution is a must. Our picks for the best home EV chargers of 2023 provide the right mix of fast charging speed, smart connectivity and durability. Models like the Grizzl-E, ChargePoint Flex and JuiceBox balance performance and value for exceptional daily charging.
For most EV owners, a WiFi connected smart charger provides the best experience. Look for chargers that fit your space, wiring situation and budget. And don’t forget installation – working with a qualified electrician ensures safe, long-lasting operation. As more powerful EVs arrive, home charging will only become more important. We hope this guide steers you towards the best home EV charger for your needs!
Key Takeaways:
- Level 2 chargers providing 20-25 miles of range per hour are ideal for home use.
- Smart WiFi chargers allow remote monitoring, access control and scheduling.
- Charging speed, connectors, output power and warranty are key features to compare.
- Installation by an electrician runs $600-$1200 on average.
