(Keep in mind that different EVs have different charging port locations, and what’s convenient for one car might not work on the next.) A design that nicely integrates a hook for the unused cable portion is also convenient.Īn app that communicates with you is handy, too, although most EVs allow you to view charging status and get notifications through the car manufacturers’ app. We found that a long, 25-foot cable is handy. The ideal cable can reach to the car’s charge port whether its location on the car is front or rear, left or right. This can also determine how much the installation costs. First figure out where you want to install your charger. We found that a compact design and an easy-to-manage cable that’s long enough can help optimize space and maximize flexibility. Make sure you order the right charger for the plug you have: A four-prong outlet requires what’s called a NEMA 14-50 plug, while a three-prong outlet requires a NEMA 6-50 plug. We favor the plug-in type because of the portability these chargers are easy to take with you when you move or even when you’re on vacation, should you rent a home. CR members can use CR’s EV Incentive Finder to see how much money they can save based on where they live.Īll of the EVSEs we evaluated did the job and are weatherproof, meaning they can be installed inside a garage or outside. There are state and federal tax credits that can help you pay for this cost, and some utility companies will also give you a rebate. The national average installation cost is between $518 and $1,273, according to HomeAdvisor, but could rise to thousands of dollars if you need your wiring upgraded or if you have a charger installed far from your main electrical panel. But for drivers who regularly use their EVs as they would a gas car, a wall charger is practically a must and a worthwhile investment. Plug-in hybrids, with their limited battery capacity and ability to run on gasoline, probably don’t warrant the investment in a wall charger. For most drivers, trickling electricity overnight may be adequate for addressing the range needs of a typical commute. It’s possible to recharge your EV or plug-in hybrid by simply using the supplied cable that came with the car and a nearby 120-volt outlet, the typical outlet in your house or garage. Owners of pure-electric cars may find it helpful to have a wall charger installed to get charging done in a few hours instead of overnight or over days.
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