Power up Right by Avoiding These 8 Pitfalls When Choosing an EV Charger

If you just bought an electric vehicle (EV), you may be in the market for an at-home charger. These devices make charging easier because you don’t have to go to a public station. While EV chargers are handy, you could encounter pitfalls with your selection. 

Here are eight mistakes to avoid when choosing your next EV device. 

1. Picking the Wrong Charger

First, you must consider the charger based on your EV’s needs. Some manufacturers require drivers to select a specific device, so you might be unable to choose the closest one in your area. For instance, the Nissan Leaf is among the most affordable EVs commercially available. This electric car uses CHAdeMO fast charging, so you must find an at-home station compatible with your Leaf. 

Additionally, you should consider charging speed when choosing an EV charger. While level 1 chargers are the least expensive, they are the slowest devices. The Department of Transportation says a level 1 EV charger may need 40-50 hours to reach 80%, whereas a level 2 charger only requires 4-10 hours. Level 2 stations may be pricier but more convenient for your commute.

2. Not Checking Your Voltage at Home

If you choose a level 1 charger, you should be able to plug it into an outlet at home. These machines require a typical 120-volt AC outlet you find in homes. However, a level 2 charger requires double the power because it’s a faster device. This equipment uses 240V at home and 208V in commercial settings, so your home might not be ready to handle the voltage. 

Not checking the voltage in your home could lead to severe consequences and damage. In response, your charger could draw more power to compensate for the lower voltage. This overdrawing could result in overheating or even sparks and fires. Then, you could damage the charger itself and lose thousands of dollars from your purchase. 

3. Not Hiring an Electrician

If you get a level 2 charger, you must swap the electrical outlet for one that can handle 240V. Most devices give you the necessary hardware and instructions to install it yourself. However, you should hire an electrician to do the job unless you have extensive experience with electrical wiring. If you install it yourself, you risk doing it wrong and causing damage to the charger or your vehicle. 

Hiring an electrician should also be on the table if the law requires it. For instance, you may have received your charger from the California Public Utilities Commission or another state organization. California law requires at least one electrician with EV Infrastructure Training Program certification to install the device. Err on the side of caution and hire a professional if you’re unsure. 

4. Getting a Single-Cable Station 

Imagine you live with your spouse, and you each have an EV. You get a charging station, but only one person at a time can use it. How do you resolve who gets priority? Getting a station with only one cable is a mistake if there is more than one EV owner on the property. Instead, get a charger with at least two cables to charge simultaneously. You and your spouse can charge your electric cars and get ready to hit the road. 

If you get a dual EV charger for your home, ensure it’s conducive to your family’s needs. For instance, check the features to see if it has power-sharing technology. With this tool, each car gets equal power flow to its battery. The extra power required means you should also ensure your walls can handle the power flow. Even if you have one EV now, you may find a dual charger advantageous for future EVs. 

5. Disregarding Smart Chargers

Smart technology has made life easier through automation and increased connectivity. While it may seem like your EV doesn’t need the technology, you’re missing out if you disregard smart chargers. The primary benefit of these advanced chargers is their energy management and connection with the grid. With this device in your garage, your EV can charge at off-peak hours and save money on your utility bills. 

Smart chargers also understand the needs of your EV battery. Experts recommend charging only to 90% and not a complete 100%. Most intelligent stations have a phone app where you can adjust the settings and charge limits. Smart chargers help you preserve battery and draw less power from the grid. After all, it’s essential not to strain municipal resources if possible. 

6. Ignoring Rebate Opportunities 

EVs and their chargers can be expensive, leading some to choose cheaper options or avoid them altogether. The final price could set you back if you ignore the rebate opportunities. Check local, federal and state laws to see what tax credits you can get for your investment. For instance, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) permits up to 30% of the cost back up to $1,000 for your EV charger.

On the state level, you may have more opportunities for tax rebates. For instance, Maryland’s Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) Rebate Program compensates 50% of eligible costs for home chargers up to $700. If you purchase chargers for commercial use, your maximum rebate goes up to $5,000. Check your local and state tax credits because you may be surprised at the money-saving opportunities. 

7. Overlooking Physical Security

At-home chargers are convenient for your EV, especially if you don’t live close to a public charging station. However, your station could be out of service if you overlook physical security. Thieves seek EV chargers because they want to steal cables. An Associated Press report found two men needed just 2.5 minutes to snip charging cables and load them into a truck. With that in mind, you should beef up security. 

When choosing an EV charger, you must protect it as much as you value your car. Prioritize tamper-resistant hardware and cable locks to secure your machine. Lean more toward brands with built-in safety features instead of those requiring upgrades. Once you purchase and install the charger, regularly inspect it for damage or loose screws. Additionally, you may benefit from motion-sensor lights and related tools. 

8. Brushing Cybersecurity Aside 

While avoiding tampering is essential, you shouldn’t discount cybersecurity threats. Cybersecurity risks are prevalent at public stations because you must enter payment information. Still, they could risk your EV and private data.  

For instance, a thief could remotely access the account you use for your EV charger. With this data, they can see your car’s make and model, credit card information and other sensitive records. These risks are too significant to ignore, so protect your EV charger with complex passwords and network security. Research EV charger brands for their cybersecurity reputation and how frequently they send software updates. 

Making the Right Decision With Your EV Charger

EVs are the future of the auto industry. As more people adopt them, companies will improve the cars and at-home chargers. If you’re considering a residential station, prioritize research to see what charger is best for your needs. Voltage, physical security and compatibility with your EV are only a few examples of what your checklist should contain. Avoid the common pitfalls to ensure you get the most from your purchase.