When buying and installing an EV charger, you have many options for reducing costs, both up front and later on, without sacrificing quality or performance.
The basic Level 1 charger that came with your electric car—often called a ‘trickle charger’—can add a few miles of driving range each hour. However, having a Level 2 EV charger can increase your charging speed and efficiency at home.
Before deciding on a Level 2 charger, there are a few main factors to consider:
Plug types
You can choose a charger that’s hardwired into your home, or one that plugs in to a 240 V outlet using a NEMA connector.
To connect a charger to a vehicle, almost all EVs in North America use a J1772 plug/Type 1 connector—except for Tesla, which usually provides an adapter that makes a Tesla EV compatible with a J1772 plug.
Enphase chargers have J1772s, so you can reliably charge any model of EV.
Amperage ratings
You can maximize your charging performance by choosing an EV charger with a similar amperage rating as your vehicle’s battery rating. This matches the maximum amount of electricity that can flow into your vehicle’s battery at once.
Property compatibility
Consider the lengths you’ll need for your charging and power cables, as well as weatherproofing and the limits of your home’s electrical panel. Enphase chargers provide multiple options for power levels and charging and power cable lengths, and all our EV chargers can be safely used either indoors or out.
Estimating the costs of installing a Level 2 home EV charger
If you already have a grounded 240 V outlet in a convenient charging location, you may be able to plug in your Level 2 EV charger without the help of a licensed electrician. If you purchase a hardwired EV charger or need to upgrade your property’s electrical panel, you will need to hire an electrician to safely complete your installation.
While costs vary across installations, the U.S. Department of Energy has calculated the average expenses associated with a typical Level 2 EV charger:
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Charging equipment: $400 to $1,200
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Installation by a licensed electrician: $100 to $500
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Electrical panel upgrading, if necessary: $800 to $4,000 for parts, labor, and permitting
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Additional wiring and trenching, if necessary: under $500
Enphase can help you explore your options and connect you with verified installation professionals in your area.
How an Enphase EV Charger can save you money
Enphase EV Chargers are designed for longevity and all-weather use.
Their wide range of amperages, installation options, and features can help you save money up front and through years of efficient performance.
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Safety and warranty for reduced lifetime expenses: All Enphase EV Chargers are certified by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) and use several automatic self-testing checks to ensure safety and performance. They’re designed to decrease the likelihood of equipment failures and costly part replacements, and most come with a five-year warranty.
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A standard 25-foot charging cable for more flexibility: Ample reach to your parking spot gives you added options for installation locations on your property, with less wiring and trenching.
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An integrated cable wrap and holster for safe and easy cable management: Included with most Enphase EV Chargers, these let you easily stow the connector after charging your vehicle, keeping it protected and reducing wear and tear.
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Pre-assembly for faster and simpler setup and reduced labor costs: Unlike other options on the market, Enphase EV Chargers don’t require prewiring or additional hardware.
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Integration with an Enphase Energy System for greater efficiency: Connecting your EV charger to an Enphase home solar energy system helps you reduce your use of costly, grid-supplied electricity.
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Local experts: Reduce potential hiccups and secure an efficient installation or upgrade by working with one of our professional EV installers. They’re well versed in your area’s permitting laws as well as available rebates or incentives.
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Our 24/7 customer service guarantee: The Enphase customer service team is always available to help you minimize EV charger downtime and maximize the value of your investment.
If you have questions about how to save money while buying and installing an Enphase EV Charger, contact our product specialists today, or start your Enphase charging journey by finding the perfect charger for your vehicle.
