An EV charger converts the grid’s AC or DC electrical power into the appropriate voltage and current to recharge your EV’s battery. It also regulates the charging process to maximize energy efficiency and help protect your car from overheating and fire risks.
You can find a wide range of chargers in the US and Canada, from super-basic, bare-bones power cords that plug into standard household outlets (Level 1) to the faster, higher-amperage Level 2 options. The more advanced chargers typically come with companion mobile apps and offer features like scheduling (via a schedule baked into the vehicle’s app) to take advantage of cheaper overnight electricity rates. They also allow you to monitor your energy use and keep statistics, and can communicate with local utilities and participate in demand response programs. They can be either tethered or wall-mounted, and designed for indoor or outdoor use.
If you live in a multi-unit home or apartment complex, you’ll want to look at networked chargers, which are more likely to be UL Listed and designed for outdoor use. Some offer features like load-sharing, letting you use two chargers on the same circuit without tripping the breaker. You can also control them via a mobile app, with support for voice interface with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant and more.
The cost of a home-installed EV charger can run to several thousand dollars, depending on the size and features you choose. It will require a dedicated electrical line to be run from your house breaker box, and might require a capacity upgrade (for about $200-500) to accommodate a more powerful EV charger.