The government of France recently announced that it would completely ban the sale of gasoline or diesel-powered cars by the year 2040. The United States is still a little behind its European counterparts on politically investing in the renewable energy economy. Nevertheless, few people would doubt that electric vehicles are the wave of the future of transportation.
Even if you don’t own an electric vehicle at the moment, the chances that your next car is electric will only increase as the years pass. Gas-powered vehicles only require you to pull into the nearest gas station to get the fuel needed to run your car. Although, electric vehicles require a little bit more forethought. Finding a quality home EV charger is essential for the electric vehicle owner. Below, we offer a detailed description of the different types of EV chargers available and suggest the top three EV chargers currently on the market.
Table of Contents
- What Is an Electric Vehicle Charger?
- How Many Types of EV Chargers Are There?
- What Are Level 1 EV Chargers?
- What Are Level 2 EV Chargers?
- What Are Level 3 EV Chargers?
- What Is the Fastest Type Of EV Charger?
- Can You Charge an Electric Vehicle With a Standard Plug?
- Do All-Electric Vehicles Use the Same Charger?
- Do I Require A Permit To Install a Home EV Charger?
- How Much Does It Cost To Install an EV Charger at Home?
- The Best EV Chargers on the Market Today
What Is an Electric Vehicle Charger?
An electric vehicle charger, commonly known as an 'EV charger' or 'Electric Vehicle Service Equipment (EVSE),' supplies power to charge an electric vehicle. Some vehicles come equipped with onboard converters that plug into a standard outlet, while others require EV charging stations. These charging stations incorporate power connectors that meet a variety of standards required by electric vehicles.
Charge Point Wi-Fi Enabled Level 2 EV Charger. Photo Credit: Charge Point
$399
Emporia Level 2 48 AMP EV Charger UL Listed
Emporia Level 2 48 AMP EV Charger UL Listed is a powerful game changer in electric vehicle charging. Consistently voted one of the best EV chargers on the market, it features a 24-foot cable and options for either a CCS/J1772 or NACS/Tesla connector, allowing it to easily reach and charge any EV up to 40 amps with NEMA 14–50P or up to 48 amps with a hardwired configuration. Its watertight NEMA Type 4 enclosure ensures safe installation both indoors and outdoors. UL and Energy Star certified, this charger offers a default charge rate of 40A for NEMA 14-50 and 48A for hardwired setups, with WiFi connectivity to adjust charge rates. It pairs seamlessly with an Emporia Vue Smart Home Energy Monitor to optimize charging using excess solar power and reduce charging during peak demand times.
$109.99-$209.99
Emporia Vue 3 3-Phase Energy Management Hub & Monitor
Emporia Vue 3 3-Phase Energy Management Hub & Monitor automates, controls, and manages connected Emporia devices such as smart plugs, EV chargers, and home battery systems. It also works with 3rd party thermostats and appliances to optimize performance and lower your electric bill. This advanced system includes an extra 200A sensor for light commercial 3-phase electrical systems and installs easily in most home circuit panels with clamp-on sensors. With 24/7 energy management and monitoring, it dynamically adjusts EV charge rates, preventing costly repairs and conserving energy. The Emporia Energy App allows for real-time energy data monitoring and intelligent load management to maximize savings.
$99.99-$199.99
Emporia Vue 3 Energy Management Hub & Monitor
Emporia Vue 3 Energy Management Hub & Monitor automates, controls, and manages connected Emporia devices such as smart plugs, EV chargers, home battery systems, and third-party thermostats and appliances to optimize performance and reduce your electric bill. It installs in the circuit panel of most homes with clamp-on sensors and supports various electrical systems. With 24/7 energy management and monitoring via the Emporia Energy App, users can automate energy settings for time of use, peak demand, and more, while accessing real-time data to prevent costly repairs and conserve energy. The device also allows the addition of up to sixteen branch sensors for precise appliance monitoring.
$699
EvoCharge iEVSE Home Charging Station 40 Amp Level 2 EV Charger – 25ft Cable
In addition to its fast and efficient charging capabilities, the EvoCharge iEVSE Home Charging Station is also designed to be convenient and user-friendly. The charging station features a sleek and compact design that makes it easy to install and use, with a user-friendly interface that allows you to start and stop charging, adjust charging settings, and monitor the charging progress. The 25ft cable provides ample length for easy and convenient vehicle access, and the charging station is compatible with a wide range of electric vehicles, making it the perfect choice for any electric vehicle owner looking to upgrade their home charging setup. Features: Add up to 30 miles of range per hour of charging Convenient EvoCharge mobile app & web portal Smart assistant compatible; Alexa, Google, & Siri Up to 40 Amps (9.6kw) of power Wi-Fi enabled (2.4Ghz) UL/cUL Listed for safe home charging Easy indoor or outdoor installation 25ft cable for ease of use anywhere in your garage Included: Charging station with NEMA 6-50 power cord, charging cable, and J1772 handle Holster Universal wall bracket and fasteners
$299.99
Emporia EV Charger ProControl Upgrade - Bring Access Control to your Charger
Already have an Emporia EV Charger with ProControl? Upgrade to a charging solution ideal for businesses, buildings, condos, rentals, and fleets that want to provide access-controlled EV charging to their employees, tenants, guests, and customers. ProControl is a secure, online service that allows administrators to easily add or remove drivers, control access to specific chargers, and download relevant data for billing or reconciliation purposes. Emporia ProControl is an online management system giving you total control to: Limit access to your Emporia EV Charger Invite, approve, and remove drivers Control advanced energy management features Review and download reporting data for billing or reconciliation Access to the Emporia EV Charger is restricted to users you invite/approve through the Emporia ProControl management system. Users can request access through the Emporia Charge app. Once approved, users are required to use the Emporia Charge app to start and stop their charging sessions. It comes with an 18" x 12" uniquely numbered aluminum sign, a software upgrade to your existing Emporia EV Charger, and access to Emporia ProControl
$699
Wallbox Pulsar Plus 48A Electric Vehicle Charger
Pulsar Plus offers the best of both small size and powerful performance for faster electric vehicle charging at home. Designed for easy installation, Pulsar Plus can charge any electric car* on the market today. Home charging is simple and efficient with the integrated myWallbox app, which lets you control your charger from your smart devices via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Onboard intelligence means your smart functions (including scheduled charging and locking/unlocking) are managed in the charger, not the cloud, letting you access and control your charger even when you can't connect to the Internet. Pulsar Plus also works with Alexa and Google Home voice commands, making charging a seamless addition to your smart home system. NEMA Type 4 is rated for water tightness and dust resistance. Pulsar Plus is suitable for indoor and outdoor installation. Features Adjustable power up to 48Amp (11.5kW) Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity Works with all EVs Power Sharing-enabled Voice control-enabled
$599
Emporia Level 2 48 AMP UL Listed EV Charger with Load Management
Emporia Level 2 48 AMP UL Listed EV Charger with Load Management offers the advantages of a high-performance charger without needing costly electrical upgrades. This intelligent system dynamically adjusts the EV charge rate to keep your home's energy distribution within limits, allowing the breakers to exceed your panel's service rating safely. It includes the award-winning Emporia Level 2 Smart Home EV Charger and an Emporia Vue Energy Monitor pre-enabled with Load Management capabilities.
$7,438
SunGoldPower Off-Grid Solar Kit 6000W 48VDC 120V/240V LIFEPO4 10.48kwh Server Rack Lithium Battery 8 X 370 Watts Solar Panels - SGR-6KL48C
The SunGoldPower Off-Grid Solar Kit 6000W 48VDC 120V/240V LIFEPO4 10.48kWh Server Rack Lithium Battery 8 X 370 Watts Solar Panels - SGR-6KL48C offers a comprehensive solution for mid-sized off-grid homes or remote cabins. This powerful solar system kit includes nearly everything needed to harness 2.96KW of off-grid solar power and storage. Equipped with a 6000W 48V split phase Inverter/Charger UL1741, it efficiently powers most 120V and 240V home appliances. The 10.48kWh LIFEPO4 server rack lithium battery ensures reliable energy storage, while the eight 370-watt monocrystalline solar panels maximize energy capture. With additional features like auto generator start and solar panel mounting hardware, this kit provides clean, quiet, and efficient off-grid power.
$270
Nellie's WOW Mop
Who would've thought that you would ever look forward to mopping your floors? Nellie’s WOW Mop makes cleaning your floors - dare we say it - enjoyable. Truth is, you might never want to stop!Cordless, lightweight, and rechargeable, the WOW Mop is incredibly easy to use. Even your teenager can do it! With high-frequency pads that oscillate 1000x per minute, the mop removes dirt and grime effortlessly. The WOW Mop comes with a pair of Nellie's WOW Wet Floor cleaning pads, which are reusable and machine washable and charger.
$995
SunGoldPower 4000W DC 12V Split Phase Pure Sine Wave Inverter With Charger
The SunGoldPower 4000W DC 12V Split Phase Pure Sine Wave Inverter with Charger is an all-in-one solution, combining an inverter, battery charger, and transfer switch into one complete system. With a 4000W output and a 12V DC input, this inverter provides a stable and efficient power supply that can handle even the most demanding appliances and tools. The pure sine-wave output ensures clean and stable power that won't damage sensitive electronics. Additionally, the inverter boasts a 300% surge capacity for 20 seconds, providing reliable support for your tools and equipment. The split-phase inverter requires 240VAC input and will output 110/120 or 220/230/240VAC, and it can output 50 or 60Hz via the SW4. It is capable of producing 2 legs of 110V, making this inverter perfect for home and business applications with a 220 panel in place.Whether you're looking for a backup power source or an off-grid power solution, the SunGoldPower 4000W DC 12V Split Phase Pure Sine Wave Inverter with Charger is the perfect choice. It is commonly used in RVs, trailers, and motorhomes, providing reliable and efficient power for your adventures.
How Many Types of EV Chargers Are There?
Electric vehicle chargers are available in level 1, level 2, and level 3, or DC Fast Charger. As the level increases, the kilowatt (kW) power output results in shorter charging times. Level 1, level 2, and level 3 are also referred to as slow, fast, and rapid, or Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3, respectively.
What Are Level 1 EV Chargers?
Level 1 EV chargers are standard charging cords that plug into any regular outlet taking up to 20 to 40 hours to charge an electric vehicle fully. This is the most convenient way of charging an electric car, but the single-phase charging also takes significantly longer than level 2 and level 3 chargers.
EVOCHARGE EVSE, Level 2 EV. Photo Credit: EVOCHARGEWhat Are Level 2 EV Chargers?
Level 2 EV chargers are 240V medium-speed EV chargers and require an electrician to install them. Level 2 EV chargers take 6 to 8 hours to charge an electric vehicle fully. Level 2 EV chargers range in price between $660 to $930 after installation.
What Are Level 3 EV Chargers?
Level 3 or DC fast-charging stations are large EV chargers capable of charging an electric car to 80% within 20 to 30 minutes. While most level 3 chargers are made for commercial use, level 3 charging options are becoming available for the home. Level 3 EV chargers range in price between $1320 to $2650.
What Is the Fastest Type Of EV Charger?
Level 3 or DC fast charging EV chargers are the fastest EV chargers available today. These are large, fast chargers that require three-phase power providing up to 350kW. Level 3 chargers will intelligently scale down to match the most rapid charge rate that an electric vehicle will accept.
Siemens VC30GRYU Versicharge. Photo Credit: SiemensCan You Charge an Electric Vehicle With a Standard Plug?
Most electric vehicles are equipped with a charging unit compatible with standard outlets, making it easy to charge your car with a standard outlet. The downside of charging your vehicle with a standard outlet is that it takes 6-8 hours to charge a plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) up to 20-40 hours for a battery-electric vehicle (BEV).
Do All-Electric Vehicles Use the Same Charger?
Electric vehicles available to the North American market are usually equipped with a J1772 EV connector. This connector is compatible with all-electric vehicles except for Tesla. While Tesla uses a proprietary connector, it can be made compatible using an adapter.
Do I Require A Permit To Install a Home EV Charger?
Level 1 EV chargers do not require a permit as they connect to a standard outlet. Level 2 chargers may require a permit if your home’s output voltage needs to be upgraded to 240v. Level 3 chargers will often require an update to your home's output voltage. With level 2 and level 3 charges, it is best to consult an electrician and check with local building codes.
How Much Does It Cost To Install an EV Charger at Home?
Electric vehicle owners should consider installing a level 2 charger, which runs on a 240-volt connection. Factoring in the cost of the level 2 charger, electrician labor, and other hidden costs, you can most likely install a system for around $1,200. It might represent a significant upfront investment. This type of charger can usually fully charge your car´s batteries in a few hours. Level 3 chargers require an electricity strength that is almost always not applicable to residential homes.
The initial investment for a level 2 EVSE often pays for itself in 1-2 years due to the savings associated with not requiring gasoline. General Motors, the company that makes the EV Chevrolet Volt, estimates that it takes just over 2,500 kWh to run the Volt for a year. It amounts to around $317 at the average electricity rate of $0.127 per kWh. You´d be hard-pressed to find any gas-powered vehicle that would cost you less than $1,000 per year for gasoline, especially with rising global oil prices.
The Best EV Chargers on the Market Today
Charge Point Wi-Fi Enabled Level 2 EV Charger. Photo Credit: Charge PointCharge Point Wi-Fi Enabled Level 2 EV Charger
The Charge Point Wi-Fi Enabled Level 2 EV Charger is a level 2 charger for around $650 at Home Depot. However, if you want a faster charge for your car due to the frequent use of your EV, this charger might be the best option for you. It reportedly charges EV batteries six times faster than a standard 120-volt home system. The mobile app will also allow you to know how much charge your car battery has, no matter where you are. This can come in handy when you´re trying to gauge whether to put in an extra hour at work or head home. The 18-foot cord provides plenty of lengths, though you can upgrade to a 25-foot cord for another $100 or so.
Juice Box Pro 40. Photo Credit: Juice BoxJuice Box Pro 40 Level 2 EV Charger
The Juice Box Pro 40 is a level 2 charger that comes equipped with web-based charging control so that you can control the charging features of your car from the comfort of your home or office without having to venture out to the garage or parking lot in the middle of winter. With this charger, you can also control when your car is plugged in to avoid peak electric demand or rates. This feature can save you hundreds of dollars over a year of charging your vehicle. At just under $600 on Amazon, this option is also an affordable option for most families.
Siemens VersiCharge VC30GRYU. Photo Credit: SiemensSiemens Residential Smart VersiCharge EV Charger Level 2
The Siemens VersiCharge VC30GRYU is an easy-to-use plug-and-play installation with a provided mounting bracket, providing you have a NEMA 6-50 receptacle. With charging times four times faster than level 1 EV chargers, the VersiCharge VC30GRYU is a 30 Amps, 240V level 2 charger. The VC30GRYU has a charge delay feature of 2, 4, 6, or 8 hours and can charge most EVs within 3.5 hours via a 20-foot flexible cord. This EV charging option is built to last and operates in temperatures of -30°C to +50° C. The Siemens VersiCharge VC30GRYU is available for $549, with opportunities to bundle compatible circuit breakers and receptacles.
Leviton EVR30-002-B1C Evr-Green E30 Charging Station. Photo Credit: LevitonLeviton EVR30-002-B1C EVR-Green E30 Charging Station
The Leviton EVR30-002-B1C Evr-Green E30 Charging Station is a 30 Amps, 208-240V, 7.2kW output EV charger. It comes equipped with an 18 foot charging cable and features charging restart following minor faults to ensure your vehicle battery is not undercharged. Additional safety features include ground monitor interruption, over current, over-voltage, under-voltage, and short circuit protection. The Leviton EVR30-002-B1C Evr-Green E30 is available for roughly $850.
EVOCHARGE EVSE, Level 2 Photo Credit: EVOCHARGEEVOCHARGE EVSE, Level 2 Electric Vehicle Charging Station
The EVOCHARGE EVSE, Level 2 Electric Vehicle Charging Station is a 32 Amps, 240V UL Listed EV Charger boasting charging times of 8x faster than a standard Level 1 EV Charger. It's indoor and outdoor rated and is compatible with a NEMA 6-50 plug. This charger is fully compatible with all-electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. It's important to note that Tesla electric vehicles require an adapter, which is standard amongst EV charging stations. This station comes with an 18-foot charging cable, NEMA 6-50 plug, and a universal mounting bracket.
Duosida Ready Charge. Photo Credit: DuosidaDuosida Ready Charge
This level 2 EV charger is the least expensive on the market today. This charger works well with the Chevrolet Volt, Ford Energi, Toyota Prius, and other standard EV vehicles. While the charger cord is slightly shorter than other models, it is plenty long if you install a special outlet anywhere in your garage or driveway where you typically leave your car. Customer reviews report that this EV charger will easily cut in half the charge time from your level 1 EV charger, and the price makes it an excellent first investment for people wanting to try the step up to level 2 EV chargers.
Article By: Tobias Roberts
Tobias runs an agroecology farm and a natural building collective in the mountains of El Salvador. He specializes in earthen construction methods and uses permaculture design methods to integrate structures into the sustainability of the landscape.