Smart Home & Technology

Electric Vehicle Charger

The home electric vehicle charger, formally known as Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment, has rapidly evolved from a niche accessory into an essential home infrastructure element as EV adoption accelerates worldwide. A Level 2 home charger delivers 240 volts of power through a dedicated circuit, typically adding 25 to 50 miles of range per hour of charging, which means most vehicles can be fully charged overnight. The charger consists of a wall-mounted unit with a holstered charging cable and connector, plus the necessary electrical supply from a dedicated circuit breaker. Smart EV chargers add Wi-Fi connectivity, energy monitoring, charging schedules that take advantage of off-peak electricity rates, and integration with home solar and battery systems for maximum sustainability. The design challenge of an EV charger is its prominent placement in what is often one of the home's least designed spaces: the garage. As garages increasingly serve as multi-functional areas for workshops, home gyms, and storage, the charger's appearance and installation quality matter more than ever. Premium chargers from manufacturers like ChargePoint, JuiceBox, and Tesla feature sleek industrial design with clean lines and LED status indicators that look at home in a modern garage. Cable management is the primary aesthetic concern, as a dangling 25-foot charging cable can look messy when not in use. Wall-mounted cable hooks, retractable cable reels, and magnetic holsters keep the installation tidy. For homes with detached garages, carports, or outdoor parking, weather-rated charger enclosures with architectural finishes can integrate the technology into the home's exterior design.

Key Characteristics

  • Level 2 charging at 240 volts for rapid overnight charging
  • Smart scheduling to charge during off-peak rate periods
  • Real-time energy consumption and cost tracking
  • Solar integration for net-zero vehicle charging
  • Multiple vehicle support with shared circuit load management
  • Weather-resistant construction for indoor or outdoor installation

Types & Variations

Hardwired wall-mounted charger with dedicated circuit
Plug-in portable charger with NEMA 14-50 connection
Pedestal-mounted charger for driveways without wall access
Dual-connector charger for two-vehicle households
Solar-integrated charger with battery storage pairing

Common Materials

Die-cast aluminum housingUV-resistant polycarbonate faceplateHeavy-gauge copper wiringStainless steel wall mount bracketIndustrial-grade rubber cable jacketTempered glass status display

Placement & Usage Tips

Mount the charger on the wall nearest the vehicle's charge port location, typically on the driver's side, at a height of approximately 48 inches for comfortable cable handling. Ensure the charging cable can reach the vehicle's port without stretching across walkways or requiring the car to park in a specific direction. If mounting on a shared wall between the garage and living space, verify that the electrical installation does not create audible humming through the wall during charging sessions.

💡 Pro Tip

Install a charger rated for at least 48 amps even if your current vehicle charges at a lower rate. Future EVs are trending toward faster onboard chargers that can accept more power, and the cost difference between a 32-amp and 48-amp unit is modest compared to the expense of upgrading the electrical circuit later. Also request that your electrician install a dedicated sub-panel near the charger location to simplify any future electrical work for additional garage tools, lighting, or a second charger.