The second best thing about Electric Vehicles, apart from low emissions, is the fact that you can charge them at home. But while home charging is incredibly cheap and convenient, it is not easy to set up.
First, you need to find the right charger, then have it installed professionally. And since Nissan Leaf is one of the most popular EV models in the world, finding a good charger is rather hard. This is because there are too many options in the market.
Fortunately, we’ve done all the research for you and compiled the 5 best chargers worth checking out.
EVoCharge Level 2 EV Charger
EVoCharge is a decent Level 2 charger with 32 A and 240 Volts capacity.
The unit allows you to add between 25 and 35 miles per hour of charging, which is five times faster than most level 1 charger.
It comes with an 18 feet cable and an adjustable amperage, which allows you to choose between 26A, 24A, and 32A levels.
It is also NEMA 4 rated, which means you can install it anywhere in your home, even outdoors.
The charger itself is relatively small and installation is easy as it comes with a universal mounting bracket.
Emporia Level 2 EV Charger
The Emporia home charger is UL listed and has an Energy Star, with a current rating of 48 A.
However, the default output rate is 40 A, and you need to connect it to a Wi-Fi network to change it.
The best part is that the charger can be paired with the Emporia Vue Smart Home Energy Monitor to allow off-peak charging, which is cheaper.
This charger comes with a 24-ft cable with a built-in cable management mechanism and a J1722 connector to ensure universal compatibility.
To make it weatherproof, the unit features a NEMA Type 4 encase.
ChargePoint Home Flex EV Charger
This is a Level 2, Wi-Fi-enabled charging station compatible with most EVs.
It is UL listed and has an impressive maximum amperage of 50 A. If you don’t fancy going “full power”, the charger’s flexible amperage settings allow you to choose five other options; 16A, 24A, 32A, 40A, and 48A.
Like commercial ChargePoint chargers, the Home Flex charger is integrated with the ChargePoint app. You can use the App to set reminders, create a charging schedule, track your charging progress, and determine the right amperage.
Due to its high amperage, the charger can deliver up to 37 miles of range per hour. It is also UL listed, certified as NEMA 3R weatherproof, and works with both NEMA 6-50 and 14-50 plugs.
Most impressively, the Home Flex charger comes with a 23-ft charging cable out of the box. This gives you a lot more flexibility in terms of placement.
Wallbox Pulsar Plus Level 2 Smart Charger
This 240V level 2 charger is more than seven times faster than level 1 chargers. On average, it can add about 24-32 miles per hour.
It is safe for outdoor use and has a NEMA 14-50 plug, complete with a 23-ft cable.
In regards to the power source, you have the option of using solar or grid or a blend of both.
The unit’s Power Boost feature also allows for optimal charging even in homes that have limited capacity.
And if you have two EVs, you can connect your Pulsar Plus chargers to the same circuit.
Enphase ClipperCreek 40 A Level 2 EV Charger
The Enphase ClipperCreek is a universal charger that gives you up to 38 miles per hour or 9.6 kW.
To achieve the fastest charging speeds, it is best to install the charger in a dedicated 50 A circuit.
Out of the box, the ClipperCreek is fully assembled and comes with a 25-ft cable and J1722 connector plug.
The best part is that the main compartment is enclosed in a tough, watertight, NEMA 4 enclosure to allow outdoor installation.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Home Charger
While all the highlighted chargers can help you add range to your EV, there are a few things you can do to maximize a charger’s effectiveness. These include:
- Charge during off-peak hours – Many utility companies offer lower electricity rates during off-peak hours, such as overnight. By charging your Nissan Leaf during these times, you can save money on your electricity bill. Luckily, some chargers are integrated with mobile apps that allow you to set a charging schedule.
- Monitor your charging speed – Depending on the specific charger you use and the capacity of your Nissan Leaf’s battery, the charging speed may vary. Make sure to monitor the charging speed and adjust your charging schedule accordingly to ensure you’re getting the fastest charging possible. If you find your charging speed too low, you can try to increase the current level if your charger allows it.
- Take advantage of smart charging features – Some home chargers offer smart charging features such as the ability to schedule charging times or monitor your charging progress through a smartphone app. Be sure to take advantage of these capabilities to optimize your charging experience.
Choosing the Right Charger
All perspectives considered, the standout home chargers for Nissan Leaf are the ChargePoint Home Flex EV charger and the Enphase ClipperCreek 40 A charger.
These chargers are powerful, easy to install, and come with a bunch of convenience features for a great charging experience.
Even so, be sure to first check your car’s charging specifications before buying any charger. You do not want to buy a charger that is either too fast or too slow for your model.
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