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Step 1: Determine your vehicle's connector type
The connector type you need depends on your EV's model year:
- 2025+ model year vehicles: Almost all use NACS (Tesla's connector, now the North American standard). Ford, GM, Hyundai, Kia, Rivian, BMW, Mercedes, Volvo, Honda, Nissan, and Toyota have all committed to NACS for 2025+.
- 2024 and earlier vehicles: Most use J1772 (the older standard). Tesla vehicles use NACS.
- Universal chargers: The Tesla Universal Wall Connector supports both NACS and J1772 in one unit — the only future-proof option if you might switch EV brands.
Step 2: Determine the right amperage
Level 2 EV chargers range from 16A to 80A. Higher amperage = faster charging, but also requires heavier wiring and may require a panel upgrade. The right amperage depends on:
- Your EV's onboard charger capacity. Most EVs max out at 48A (11.5 kW) on Level 2. Some older EVs max at 32A. Check your vehicle's spec sheet.
- Your panel capacity. A 48A charger requires a 60A circuit. If your panel is full or low-capacity, you may need a panel upgrade or load management (Span Panel helps here).
- Your daily driving distance. A 40-mile daily commute needs ~10 kWh of charging per night — about 1 hour at 48A or 2 hours at 32A. Either works.
For most homeowners, 48A is the sweet spot — maximum residential Level 2 speed, handles any EV, and doesn't require exotic electrical work.
Step 3: Decide on smart features
Smart EV chargers include Wi-Fi connectivity, mobile apps, and scheduling. The benefits:
- Off-peak scheduling: Automatically charge only during cheapest electricity hours. Can save $200–$600/year on TOU rate plans.
- Load management: Some chargers (Span Drive, Emporia) coordinate with your home panel to avoid tripping the main breaker when AC + EV charger run simultaneously.
- Energy tracking: See exactly how much electricity goes to EV charging — useful for tax reimbursement (business miles) and ROI tracking.
- OTA updates: Smart chargers receive firmware updates that can add features or fix bugs over time.
If you don't care about any of these, a "dumb" charger like the Grizzl-E Classic is fine and saves $100–$200.
Step 4: Plan installation
- Check panel capacity. If your main panel is <200A, you may need a panel upgrade before adding a 48A EV charger. A Span Panel makes this easier (dynamic load management).
- Pick a mounting location. Indoor (garage) is ideal — weather protection, easier wiring. Outdoor requires a weatherproof charger and conduit.
- Hire a licensed electrician. EV charger installation is not a DIY project. Most utilities require a permit and inspection.
- Consider time-of-use rate plan. Many utilities offer special EV charging rates (super cheap overnight). Switch to this plan once your charger is installed.
Step 5: Pick your charger
See our best EV home chargers guide for specific recommendations. The short version:
- Tesla Universal Wall Connector: Best all-around — supports NACS + J1772, 48A, future-proof.
- ChargePoint Home Flex: Premium pick — 50A max, excellent app, integrates with public charging network.
- Emporia Level 2: Best value — 48A, lowest price, integrates with Emporia energy monitor ecosystem.
- Grizzl-E Classic: Rugged, no-frills — best for outdoor installations where smart features aren't needed.