Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular as people begin to realize the benefits of driving electric, including lower maintenance costs and reduced carbon emissions. We will discuss the factors you need to consider when choosing the right EV charger for your electric vehicle.
Last week, we took some time together to understand why electric vehicles are becoming future of transportation. There are many benefits that conventional cars cannot match or compete on. We talked about lower maintenance costs, reduced carbon emissions, and the convenience of charging at home. It’s no wonder that more people are choosing to go electric. However, with so many different types of EV chargers available, selecting the right one can be overwhelming.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various factors you need to consider when choosing the perfect EV charger for your electric vehicle. There are many different types of chargers on the market, and each has its own set of features and benefits. Choosing the right EV charger can become a daunting task. A lot of customers rely on our expertise and experience as electrician’s and EV installers for our best recommendation. If you are a first-time buyer of an EV charger, you’ll find everything you need to know to make an informed decision or ask the right questions. So, buckle up and let’s dive in!
Types of EV Chargers
Before we get into the factors to consider when choosing an EV charger, it is important to understand the different types of chargers available. We’ve discussed these in previous articles, so we’ll do a quick review. If its your first time reading about types of chargers, go take a look at our pervious post where we go deeper into the topic. There are three main types of EV chargers: Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast chargers.
Level 1 Chargers
Level 1 chargers are the most basic type of EV charger. They are typically included with your electric vehicle purchase, located in the trunk. These chargers plug into a standard 120-volt household outlet and can take up a long time to fully charge an electric vehicle. On average, it will 24 to 30 hours.
Level 2 Chargers
Level 2 chargers are more powerful than Level 1 chargers and can charge an electric vehicle up to 8 times faster. These chargers require a 240-volt electrical circuit and can be installed in your home or business. These chargers can be plugged-in or hardwired by an electrician.
DC Fast Chargers
DC fast chargers are the most powerful type of EV charger and can charge an electric vehicle up to 80% in just 30 minutes. These chargers are typically found at public charging stations ranging between 24 KW and 180 KW. They require a high-voltage electrical connection.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an EV Charger
Now that you understand the different types of EV chargers, it is time to consider the factors that will help you choose the right EV charger for your electric vehicle.
Charging Speed
The first factor to consider when choosing an EV charger is the charging speed. As mentioned earlier, Level 2 chargers are faster than Level 1 chargers, and DC fast chargers are even faster than Level 2 chargers. Many people believe that a higher maximum charging rate is always better. We often get asked for the fast charger possible. If you have a long daily commute or frequently take long trips, this could make sense for you. However, if you don’t use your electric vehicle that much and use it for shorter distances, a Level 2 set up to 24A or 32A on a 240V circuit will meet your needs. You will also save money on materials!
Charger Port Compatibility
The next factor to consider is charger port compatibility. Not all electric vehicles are compatible with all chargers, so it is important to ensure that the charger you choose is compatible with your electric vehicle. The most common charger port types are J1772 and CCS, so make sure the charger you choose has the appropriate port for your vehicle. Tesla recently came out with a J1772 model.
Capacity of An Electric Vehicle
There is often confusion in the market regarding this topic and one that is too often overlook. Charging speed is the capacity of an electric vehicle to accept electricity. It is a very important aspect to consider when choosing an EV charger. The maximum charging rate is typically measured in kilowatts (kW) and represents the rate at which electricity is transferred from the charger to the EV’s battery.
Very simply, there is no point in buying a 11-kWh charger if your electric car can only take 7.2 kWh. This capacity, commonly known as the maximum charging rate, determines how quickly an electric vehicle can be charged.
While a higher charging rate can certainly be beneficial in some cases as we discussed in the previous paragraph, it’s important to understand that not all electric vehicles can accept high charging rates. Some EVs may have lower maximum charging rates due to limitations in their battery chemistry, cooling systems, or other factors.
Ultimately, understanding an EV’s capacity to accept electricity is a crucial aspect of EV ownership. By choosing an EV charger that is compatible with your vehicle’s maximum charging rate, you can ensure that you are able to charge your vehicle as quickly and efficiently as possible, while also protecting your vehicle’s battery and maximizing its lifespan.
Amperage
The amperage of your EV charger is another important factor to consider. The amperage of your charger should be equal to or greater than the amperage of your vehicle’s onboard charger. You can typically find the amperage of your vehicle’s onboard charger in your owner’s manual.
Installation Location
The location of your EV charger is another important factor to consider. If you plan to install your charger indoors, you will need to ensure that you have enough space for the charger and that you have access to a 240-volt electrical circuit. If you plan to install your charger outdoors, you will need to ensure that the charger and all associated materials are meant for the outdoors. Make sure it is installed in a safe and secure location.
When choosing an EV charger, it is also important to consider the reputation of the brand. Some of the most popular EV charger brands include Tesla, ChargePoint, Flo, Juicebox, Wallbox, and FLO. These brands are known for their quality and reliability, so you can feel confident in your purchase.
Choosing an EV Charger Installer
Once you have chosen the right EV charger, the next step is to find an EV charger installer. There are several options available to you, including hiring an electrician and professional EV charger installation company like MaCharge.
It is recommended that you choose an EV charger installer who has experience in installing electric vehicle charging stations. This ensures that your charger is installed safely and efficiently. Additionally, it’s important to make sure that the installer you choose is licensed and insured.
Electrical Capacity
If you’re looking to install a Level 2 charger, an electrician will need to ensure it has the necessary electrical capacity to support it. In some cases, you may need to upgrade your home’s electrical panel. Updating your wiring to accommodate the higher voltage and amperage requirements of a Level 2 charger.
Budget
The cost of installation will vary depending on three major factors. They are the type of charger, the complexity of the installation, and the location of the charger. Choose the right charger and set up those respects your budget. It is your hard-earned money. However, we do notice that that customers are sometimes surprised or caught off guard by the installation price. We always remind them this is not a simple connection like the standard one found around the house.
It’s important to note that there may be additional costs associated with the installation of your EV charger. Such as permit fees, inspection fees, and the cost of any necessary upgrades to your home’s electrical system.
We always discourage DIY options. Even if you might think you are comfortable working with electrical wiring, However, installing an EV charger yourself can be dangerous and against code.
A Final Word
Choosing the right EV charger for your electric vehicle is an important decision that requires careful consideration. By taking the time to research your options and work with a qualified EV charger installer, you can ensure that your charging station is safe. Also understanding an EV’s capacity to accept electricity is a crucial aspect of EV ownership. This one sometimes gets overlooked. By choosing an EV charger that is compatible with your vehicle’s maximum charging rate, you can ensure that you are able to charge to its true capacity.
At MaCharge, we provide high-quality EV charger installation services to our customers. Our team of experienced electricians and EV charger installers dedicate their career to help you find the right charger for your vehicle. Contact us today to learn more about our EV charger installation services and how we can help you power your electric vehicle with ease.