5 Tips for Buying An Electric Vehicle Charger

Want to enjoy the convenience of charging your electric vehicle (EV) at home? Look no further than installing a charging station, or electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). Keep these tips in mind as you research to ensure you find the perfect option for your home and vehicle.

1. Charging Speed

First, determine how much charging power you want. EV charging equipment is typically categorized into three types, each identified by a "level." Level 1 chargers use 120-volt alternating current (AC) plugs and can fully charge an EV in 15-24 hours. Level 2 chargers use 240-volt AC plugs and can cut charging time down to 3-6 hours. Level 3 chargers use 480-volt direct current (DC) plugs, but aren't typically cost-effective for home use.

2. Wiring

Though many charging stations come with a wall plug, others need to be permanently hard-wired. Choosing an EVSE with a wall plug means you'll likely need to have an electrician install wiring and the dedicated circuit (one or more outlets) your charging station requires. This option allows you to install the actual station on your own and easily move it if you rearrange your charging space. On the other hand, a hard-wired station must be fully installed by an electrician and can't be moved easily. It does, however, eliminate the clutter that comes with the cord and junction box.

3. Location

Ideally, you'll want to install the charging station close to your electrical panel so your electrician won't need to run a lot of conduit between the panel and where you charge, which can be expensive. Average charging station cables run 15-25 feet, so it's also important to make sure the cable will be able to reach your EV's charging port. If you plan to install a charging station outside, find a weatherproof-rated model that will keep the electrical equipment safe from the elements.

4. Price

Average home EV chargers cost about $500-$900, though Level 2 charging stations can run you up to $1,200. Those on the higher end often come with more helpful features, are backed by more inclusive warranties and are made of sturdier materials. Keep in mind that charging system prices don't include installation or panel capacity upgrades, so factor those costs in as you make your decision. Tax credits and rebates could also affect your final cost, so be on the lookout for available incentives as you research your options.

5. Smart features

If you want to get more out of your charger, look for models that come with smart features. Some charging stations are Wi-Fi enabled and can interact with a connected app, allowing you to manage charging, set a schedule, or get reminders to charge. An app can also keep track of your charging habits, monitoring how much you spend on charging and how many miles you drive each day.

To reduce the environmental impact of charging at home, check out ENERGY STAR®-certified EV chargers. They provide the same functionality as standard systems, but use 40% less energy in standby mode. They're also rigorously tested by a nationally recognized laboratory to ensure they meet safety standards.

Plus, SWEPCO offers a $250 rebate to its customers who purchase and install Level 2 electric vehicle charging stations at their homes.

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