So yes, the choice will be a hardwired charger 99% of the time. But since there is still nuance to this, let’s break down why hardwired is the clear winner.

Performance and Power Delivery

A hardwired EV charger connects directly to your home’s electrical system. There’s no outlet. No plug. Just a direct line that gives your charger a dedicated circuit, meaning fewer interruptions, no shared loads, and maximum power efficiency.

Plug-in models, on the other hand, rely on an outlet – typically a NEMA 14-50. That outlet may be shared with other appliances or subject to code restrictions. And while many plug-ins are rated for 40 amps, they often default to lower amperage charging to stay within safety margins. In contrast, hardwired chargers can safely run at higher amperages (like 48A or even 60A), offering faster charging times. So, if you’re tired of trickle charging and want your vehicle ready when you are, hardwired is the way to go.

Learn More About Different Types of Electric Car Chargers

Durability and Safety

Let’s talk wear and tear. Plug-in chargers are exposed to repeated movement with regular plugging in, unplugging, cable strain, and even potential outdoor exposure. Every one of those is a failure point.

Hardwired chargers are permanently mounted and sealed. No exposed plug to loosen over time. No weather-worn outlet. Fewer things to go wrong. Especially in climates like the Pacific Northwest, where moisture and temperature swings wreak havoc on connections, a hardwired setup offers better long-term reliability and fewer maintenance headaches.

Code Compliance

Here’s something most plug-in users overlook: the National Electrical Code (NEC) places limitations on continuous loads through receptacles. EV charging is considered a continuous load. That means most 50A receptacles (used for plug-in chargers) should only be loaded to 80% – 40 amps max. And if your charger isn’t hardwired, local jurisdictions may require additional safeguards, including outlet covers, GFCI protection, and dedicated space around the receptacle.

With a hardwired charger, you bypass all of that. It’s directly installed by a licensed electrician, sized correctly, and tailored to your home’s panel capacity. You’re not just “meeting code” – you’re exceeding it.

What to know when installing home EV charging stations

A Smarter Investment

A plug-in charger might save you a few hundred bucks upfront, especially if you already have a NEMA 14-50 outlet. But that saving disappears quickly if you need to replace the charger, repair a loose outlet, or pay to upgrade later.

A hardwired EV charger is a more permanent solution. It’s secure, high-performing, and built for long-term use. It also adds more value to your home, especially as EV ownership becomes more widespread.

If you’re charging an EV once a week and moving homes next year, a plug-in might be fine. But if you’re building a reliable, efficient charging setup for daily use, don’t settle. Go hardwired. It’s faster. It’s safer. It’s built to last.

Prairie Electric installs Level 2 EV chargers in Vancouver, Ridgefield, Portland metro area, Pasco and Tri-Cities area. Contact Prairie Electric for a site assessment and EV charger installation built to fit your needs.

]]> https://www.prairielectric.com/electric-vehicles/ev-car-charger-types/ Mon, 31 Mar 2025 04:48:21 +0000 https://www.prairielectric.com/?p=2244 Electric vehicles (EVs) are rapidly transforming the way we drive, and having the right charger at home or at your business is essential for a smooth transition from gas to electric. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the types of electric car chargers available, explain key terms like kW versus kWh, and help you decide which charger best fits your needs. Whether you’re comparing level 1 vs level 2 charging efficiency or looking for the fastest car charger for home use, we’ve got you covered. Read on to learn about everything from basic chargers to advanced systems like Tesla Superchargers and DC fast chargers.

What is kW vs kWh?

Before diving into the types of chargers, it’s important to understand two fundamental terms: kilowatt (kW) and kilowatt-hour (kWh).

• kW (kilowatt) is a measure of power, which tells you how fast electricity is used or delivered. In the context of EV chargers, a higher kW rating means a faster charging rate.
• kWh (kilowatt-hour) is a measure of energy, indicating how much electricity is actually consumed or stored. For instance, if you charge a 60 kWh battery, that’s the total amount of energy required to fill it.

Knowing the difference helps you understand that when we talk about charger ratings – such as a 1.8 kW Level 1 charger or a 7.2-11.5 kW Level 2 charger – we’re referring to the rate at which power is delivered to your EV.

Level 1 Charging

Level 1 charging uses a standard 120-volt household outlet and typically delivers between 1.2 and 1.8 kW of power. This translates to roughly 4 to 5 miles of range per hour of charging.

Ideal Use: Level 1 chargers are often sufficient for plug-in hybrids that only need about 20 miles of range per full charge, so charging overnight at home is feasible.

Limitations: For fully electric vehicles, Level 1 charging is usually not enough. Even if left plugged in for several days, it may not provide a full charge.

Efficiency: When comparing level 1 vs level 2 charging efficiency, Level 1 is much slower and less efficient, making it more suitable for overnight charging of plug-in hybrids rather than primary charging for EVs.

Level 2 Charging

Level 2 chargers require a 240-volt connection and are much faster than Level 1. They typically deliver between 7.2 and 11.5 kW, but some models can go up to 19.2 kW if your home’s electrical system supports it.

Ideal Use: Level 2 charging is the standard for most home installations of car chargers, providing enough power for fully electric vehicles.

Installation Needs: These chargers require a dedicated circuit and a 240-volt outlet (or the ability to hardwire install), so your home may need an electrical panel upgrade to support the extra amperage.

Options & Budget: With various options available, you can choose a charger based on your vehicle’s requirements and your budget. At Prairie Electric, we can help evaluate your home’s available amperage and recommend the best EV charger installation solution for your home and your vehicle.

Efficiency Comparison: In the realm of level 1 vs level 2 charging efficiency, Level 2 is clearly superior, charging your EV much faster and more reliably.

Ready to upgrade? Contact Prairie Electric to discuss your EV charger installation and panel upgrade options.

Fast Chargers, DC Fast Chargers or Superchargers

While Level 1 and Level 2 chargers are common for home installations, there are faster charging options used in public spaces and commercial settings. These are known as fast chargers, DC fast chargers, or simply superchargers.

Power Ratings: Fast chargers typically deliver much higher power, ranging from 50 kW up to 350 kW.

Usage: These chargers are not installed in homes due to their high energy demands and are designed for rapid charging in places like offices, public charging stations, and along highways. They can charge an EV to 80% in under 30 minutes in some cases.

Variability: Some fast chargers at the lower end of 50 kW are used for overnight charging in public areas like hotels or malls, giving drivers a quick top-up rather than a full charge.

Tesla Superchargers

Tesla Superchargers are a subset of fast chargers designed specifically for Tesla vehicles.

Unique Advantages: They can deliver up to 350 kW of power, similar to other fast chargers, but are optimized for Tesla’s technology, providing efficient and reliable charging.

Compatibility: While primarily for Teslas, using a Tesla adapter can make them compatible with other EVs, though this is less common.

Efficiency: Tesla Superchargers are known for their ability to charge quickly and efficiently, making them a top choice for Tesla owners who need rapid charging during long trips.

Car Charger Plug Types and Connector Variations

When selecting an EV charger, it’s essential to consider car charger plug types, also known as electric car charger connector types. Different EV models use different connectors.

Connector Diversity: For instance, Tesla vehicles have a proprietary connector, while other EVs often use the SAE J1772 standard.

Compatibility: Some chargers come with multiple connector options, or you can use adapters to ensure compatibility with your vehicle.

Choosing the Right Connector: Your choice of charger will depend on your vehicle and your future needs, so be sure to ask an expert when evaluating your options.

Making the Right Choice for Your Home

Choosing the best charger for your needs depends on several factors, including your vehicle type, budget, and the existing electrical capacity of your home.

• Level 1 vs Level 2 Charging Efficiency: Most EV owners opt for Level 2 chargers because they provide a faster charging rate. However, if you only drive short distances daily and own a plug-in hybrid, Level 1 charging might suffice.
• Fastest Car Charger for Home: While fast chargers are not typically installed at home, if you have the electrical capacity and desire rapid charging, discuss options with Prairie Electric to see if a high-end Level 2 charger might be right for you.
• Installation and Upgrades: At Prairie Electric, we provide a full service for EV charger installation. We assess your home’s wiring and electrical panel, recommend the best charger for your vehicle, and handle any necessary upgrades to ensure a safe and efficient installation.

Prairie Electric has decades of experience in delivering expert electrical solutions. Whether you’re upgrading your home’s electrical panel to support a new Level 2 charger or need a comprehensive EV charger installation, our team is ready to help. We take pride in offering tailored solutions that meet your unique needs, ensuring your charging setup is both safe and reliable. Our licensed electricians assess your home’s current electrical capacity and advise you on the best charger options for your needs. We handle all aspects of the installation, including wiring, mounting, and any necessary panel upgrades. Beyond installation, Prairie Electric provides ongoing maintenance and support to keep your charger and home electrical system running smoothly.

Ready to Upgrade Your Charging Setup?

If you’re looking for a safe, efficient, and reliable way to charge your electric vehicle at home, contact Prairie Electric today for expert EV charger installation. Our team is here to guide you through every step of the process, from evaluating your home’s electrical capacity to selecting the perfect charger for your vehicle. Don’t wait—get in touch now and start enjoying faster, more efficient charging right at your doorstep.

Things To Consider Before The Install

Other than the cost to install an EV charger, there are a few other things to consider before jumping in with an install. And of course, these all do contribute to the total cost. That’s why we’re here – to help with these decisions within your budget.

Hardwired vs. Plug-In

If you may be moving from your current home in the next few years, and you don’t want to leave your charger behind, consider a charger that gets mounted on the wall and plugs into a 240 volt outlet. Or, if you’re renting and need the charger to plug into an existing 240 volt outlet, then opt for the plug-in option. There really are the only scenarios where we would recommend a plug-in charger, since hardwired EV chargers are superior in several ways. They are much safer than a plug-in, have more power and charge faster, last longer, and are cheaper to install. Plus they look much nicer on your wall compared to a plug-in! So if you have flexible options: go with hardwired.

Installation Location and Cord Length

Determine where your charger will be installed. Most homeowners install the charger inside the garage, but if you have a unique situation, chat with us to determine the best placement. Also, if the charger won’t be right next to the car you’re charging, invest in a longer charging cord. Measure the distance between the desired charger location and your vehicle’s charging port and add at least five feet for slack. You want charging to be convenient, so make sure that cord is not something that you’re struggling with on a daily basis!

Dedicated Circuit

Do you have a circuit available that can be fully dedicated for your EV charger? That’s important! You can’t easily have anything else on that circuit that draws power, as tripping is inevitable. If you hardwire your charger on a dedicated circuit, you won’t have to worry about anything tripping it.

If you don’t have a dedicated circuit, contact our electricians for help. We are experts in residential electrical panels and can help troubleshoot your power needs.

Which Level 2 Charger to Purchase?

There are many different types of chargers, even among the home level 2 chargers. There are models that deliver less power (around 7 kW) while others can go as high as 19.2 kW. It all comes down to your home’s capacity for higher-powered chargers as well as your budget. The most efficient option is to get in touch with us for recommendations based on your individual situation, and we’ll guide you toward the best charger for your needs.

Safety

As with any electrical work, it is crucial to work with a professional electrician when installing new wiring, as failure to do so can lead to risk of electrical fires, shock, and even death.

Home Charging Station Installation

When looking to install a home EV charging station, consulting professional electrical contractors is the best and safest way to go. That is why Prairie Electric offers EV charging station installation and consultation in Vancouver, WA. If you would like to set up an installation, or have any questions about EV charging stations in the home, contact us today.

Typical Cost to Install an Electric Car Charger

The cost to have a licensed electrician professionally install an electric car charger at home is typically around $2500 (including labor, materials, and the charging station itself). This price varies based on the type of level 2 charger you get, as well as specific site conditions. We’ll get into the ways that this price fluctuates in the next section.

A level 2 charger is the most common choice for homeowners to get installed. For average fully electric vehicles, a level 2 charging station will charge the vehicle overnight (or within 4-10 hours). The longer the battery range, the longer it will take to charge.

Level 1 chargers, which plug into a regular 120-volt outlet, are much cheaper but charge much more slowly. This is the type of charger that typically comes with the purchase of an electric car. When you first get your car, you would use this charger in your 120 volt outlet to charge the car.

What Affects Car Charger Installation Cost?

Several factors influence the overall cost of installing an electric car charging station at home. Here’s a breakdown of the key pricing considerations:

Charger Type

Quick overview of the 3 main charger types:

• Level 1 Chargers are the simplest and cheapest option, as they require only a standard 120-volt outlet. These are often provided free with the purchase of an EV, but their slow charging speed makes them less practical for daily use. It can take a few days to fully charge an average electric vehicle.
• Level 2 Chargers require a 240-volt outlet, offering faster charging speeds. This charger type is more common for home installations and usually costs $1,200 and $2,200 for labor and materials, plus $400-$800 for the charging station itself. Many homeowners who drive EVs find this cost well worth it, as it saves money in the long run and saves a lot of time spent in public parking lots using public charging stations.
• Level 3 Chargers are rarely installed in homes due to their high cost and infrastructure requirements. These are the public charging stations you can use while shopping, at a hotel, or during a road trip. They vary from 50 kW to 350 kw; those on the higher end of this range are also known as “fast chargers.” While currently each charging session costs less than a tank of gas, it’s still significantly more affordable to charge at home than it is to use these public stations.

Connection Type

• Plugged-in level 2 chargers require a 240-volt outlet and are portable, making them more flexible and easier to replace. Installation is minimal, since no hardwiring is required. However, if you don’t already have a 240-volt outlet accessible, you do need a licensed electrician to install one for you. If the 240-volt outlet can be installed with your current electrical panel, installation costs between $250 to $800. It’s worth noting that plugged-in level 2 chargers require a GFCI breaker per code, which can potentially cause nuisance tripping, therefore making a hardwired connection a more dependable way to go.
• Hardwired level 2 chargers are permanently installed into your home’s electrical system, with installation costing between $850 to $1,800. Like we mentioned, this is the method that we recommend for installing an EV charger. Hardwired chargers are more secure and can be installed outside with weatherproofing. This assumes that your electrical panel can handle this increase in load.

Electrical Upgrades

If your home requires electrical upgrades, such as adding a subpanel or upgrading the main electrical panel, the cost increases significantly. These upgrades would add $650 to $2,000 to your overall bill.

Installation Location (Garage vs Outdoors)

Installing the charger inside a garage is generally cheaper, ranging from $800 to $1,500. Outdoor installations, which require weatherproofing, can cost anywhere from $800 to $2,500, depending on the complexity.

Charger Brand

Whether you’re installing a Tesla connector (charger) or a universal EV charger, the price isn’t going to change significantly for the charger itself. Tesla connectors are $450 while a universal brand such as Chargepoint or Juicebox averages $600.

Permits and Inspection Fees

The local permits and inspection costs vary depending on your specific location. Each city and/or county in Oregon and Washington has different rates. Fortunately, our Prairie Electric residential electricians are well-versed in the entire process and include these specific fees on your quote. It makes the entire process much more straightforward for homeowners. Permit and inspection fees together range from $50 to $300, depending on your location.

Rebates and Tax Incentives

In many areas, including in Oregon and Washington, there are rebates and tax credits available that can reduce installation costs. Some utility companies offer rebates up to $1,000 for installing a qualified EV charger, so be sure to check local programs.

For more detailed information or to schedule a consultation with Prairie Electric for your EV charger installation, visit Prairie Electric’s EV Charger Installation Page.

What About Commercial EV Charging Stations?

We also design-build charging stations and infrastructure for commercial purposes. Whether you’re building a new facility or want to offer charging stations for your employees, we can help. Prairie Electric’s commercial and industrial electricians have the experience to deliver exactly what you want.