As the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) continues to surge, it’s becoming increasingly crucial for EV owners to ponder over the installation of the best charging station at their homes. Not only does it offer unparalleled convenience, but it also guarantees that your vehicle has always full of charge and ready to take on the roads.
However, with an array of charging stations available in the market, the process of selecting the right one can be a daunting task. Fear not, for in this article, we’ll delve into the intricate details you need to consider before choosing an electric vehicle charging station for your home.
Level (Charging speed)
Charging speed is undoubtedly one of the critical factors to contemplate when looking for the best charging station for your home. The charging speed is measured in kilowatts (kW) and determines the rate at which your EV’s battery will charge. The charging speed is directly proportional to the battery size of your EV and the capacity of the charger. A higher kW charger will undoubtedly fuel your EV faster, but it will also burn a massive hole in your pocket. It’s crucial to analyze your daily driving habits and your battery’s size to determine the charging speed that suits your needs.
First of all, check your power output. If your home support 30A of alternating current, you can install a Level 2 charger. If not, the maximum supported charging station is Level 1 AC. Read more about charging levels.
Plug Type
Another pivotal aspect to take into account is the plug type. Different EV models come with different plug types, and it’s imperative to opt for the best charging station that is compatible with your vehicle. While most charging stations have a universal connector that works with most EVs, it’s always best to double-check for compatibility.
Here is a table with the most common EVs and their plug types:
EV name | Type 1 / 2 | CCS Combo | CHAdeMO | Tesla Supercharger | Rapid Charging |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Tesla Model S, 3, X, Y | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Hyundai Ioniq Electric | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Hyundai Kona Electric | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Chevrolet Bolt EV (Opel Ampera-E) | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Chevrolet Spark EV | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Fiat 500e | Yes | No | No | No | No |
Jaguar I-Pace | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Kia Soul EV | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes |
Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric | Yes | No | No | No | No |
Mitsubishi i-MiEV | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes |
Renault Zoe | Yes | No | No | No | No |
Renault Kangoo Z.E. | Yes | No | No | No | No |
Nissan Leaf | Yes | Yes | Opt. | No | Yes |
Nissan e-NV200 | Yes | No | Opt. | No | Yes |
Volkswagen e-Golf | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Volkswagen e-Up | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Smart ForTwo Electric Drive | Yes | No | No | No | No |
Peugeot e-208 | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Audi e-tron | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Mini Electric | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
BMW i3 | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Polestar 2 | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Honda e | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Porsche Taycan | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Read more about plug types on our page.
User interface
Connectivity is yet another element to consider while selecting a charging station. Many charging stations offer a user interface that enables you to monitor and control your charging remotely through a smartphone application. Some even offer seamless integration with smart home systems like Alexa or Google Assistant. If these features hold significance to you, make sure to select a charging station that provides them. For example, Chargepoint and Juicebox can monitor your charging process via smartphone apps that are supported by Android and iOS.
Price
Cost is undoubtedly a crucial factor that can’t be overlooked while picking a charging station. The best charging stations can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. You need to set a budget and factor in the cost of installation and any necessary upgrades to your electrical system. It’s essential to consider the long-term savings on gas and maintenance costs while making your decision.
Installation
Installation is another aspect that requires considerable thought. Depending on your home’s electrical system and the location of the charging station, installation may necessitate the services of a licensed electrician. Make sure to factor in the cost of installation and any necessary upgrades to your electrical system while contemplating different charging station options. The average price for this work is $300-900 from state to state.
You can install wall charger by yourself, but it requires specific skills.
Warranty
Brand and warranty are also critical components to consider while purchasing a charging station. It’s always best to opt for a charging station from a reputable brand that offers a warranty. This ensures that you have reliable support and coverage in case of any issues with the charger.
Brands with 3-year limited warranty:
Brands with 5-year limited warranty:
The Best Charging Stations for Your Home: Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the best charging station for your home requires meticulous contemplation of charging speed, plug type, connectivity, cost, installation requirements, and brand and warranty. By dedicating time to evaluate your needs and conducting thorough research, you can undoubtedly select the best charging station that caters to your requirements.