Key points for choosing an electric vehicle charger for home use

Key points for choosing an electric vehicle charger for home use

First, clarify the vehicle charging parameters

Battery capacity and voltage: Refer to the vehicle manual or consult the manufacturer to determine the battery capacity (such as 60kWh) and voltage (such as 400V). This is helpful for calculating the charging time and choosing a charger with an appropriate power. For instance, for a 60kWh battery, using a 7kW charger, theoretically, it takes approximately 8.6 hours to charge from 0% to 100% (60kWh÷7kW≈8.6 hours).

Maximum charging current: Understand the maximum charging current supported by the vehicle and avoid choosing a charger that exceeds the vehicle's capacity to prevent damage to the battery and vehicle circuits.

Second, choose an appropriate charging power

3.3kW - 7.2kW household AC charging piles:

Applicable scenarios: It is suitable for daily commuting and short trips. The charging time is relatively long, but the price is low and the installation cost is also small. For vehicles with smaller battery capacity, such as 30-50 KWH, using a 7.2kW charger, it takes approximately 4 to 7 hours to fully charge.

Advantages: It exerts little pressure on the household power grid. The general household circuit can meet the demand, and there is no need for large-scale renovation.

11kW and above household AC charging piles (with grid support required) :

Applicable situation: If the home power grid permits and the vehicle supports it, a charger with a power of 11kW or above can further shorten the charging time. For example, a 60kWh battery with a 11kW charger takes approximately 5.5 hours to be fully charged.

Limitations: It requires a three-phase power supply from the household power grid, and professional electricians may need to carry out circuit modifications during installation, resulting in relatively high costs.

Third, pay attention to the compatibility of charging protocols

Mainstream Charging protocols: Currently, common charging protocols include CCS (Combined Charging System), CHAdeMO, GB/T (Chinese National Standard), etc. Electric vehicles of different brands and models may support different charging protocols.

Ensure compatibility: When purchasing a charger, make sure the charging protocol it supports is compatible with your vehicle; otherwise, it won't charge normally. For instance, Tesla vehicles typically use the Tesla-specific charging protocol, but some new Tesla models also support the CCS protocol.

Fourth, attach importance to brand and quality

Well-known brands: Choose chargers from well-known brands, such as Star Charger, Teldrive, and Punode, etc. These brands offer more guarantees in terms of product quality, safety and after-sales service.

Quality Certification: Check whether the charger has passed relevant quality certifications, such as CE certification, UL certification, etc. These certifications are an endorsement of the product's safety and quality.

Safety protection functions: A high-quality charger should be equipped with multiple safety protection functions such as overvoltage protection, overcurrent protection, over-temperature protection, and leakage protection to ensure a safe and reliable charging process. For instance, when the charging voltage is too high, the charger should be able to automatically cut off the power supply to prevent damage to the battery and the vehicle.

Fifth, consider the convenience of installation and use

Installation methods: Household charging piles generally have two installation methods: wall-mounted and column-mounted. Wall-mounted installation saves space and is suitable for installation on the wall beside the garage or parking space. The column-mounted installation is more flexible and the installation location can be selected according to the actual situation.

Operation interface: Select a charger with a simple and easy-to-understand operation interface for the convenience of users. Some chargers are also equipped with mobile phone apps, allowing users to remotely control charging and check the charging status through their mobile phones.

Cable length: Select a charging cable of an appropriate length based on the distance between the parking space and the power source. Excessively long cables may cause voltage drops and affect charging efficiency. If the cable is too short, it may not be connected to the vehicle.

Sixth, understand after-sales service

Warranty period: Inquire about the warranty period of the charger. Generally, the warranty period of brand chargers is 1 to 3 years. During the warranty period, if the charger has quality problems, the manufacturer will provide free repair or replacement services.

After-sales service network: Understand the distribution of the manufacturer's after-sales service network in the local area to ensure that timely service can be received when maintenance is needed.

Technical support: Choose a manufacturer that offers excellent technical support. When users encounter problems during use, they can promptly receive professional answers and assistance.

Seventh, the price factor

Cost performance: Under the premise of meeting the charging needs and quality requirements, choose a charger with a reasonable price. Don't just pursue low prices while neglecting the quality and safety of the products.

Long-term costs: Consider the long-term usage costs of the charger, including electricity charges, maintenance fees, etc. Although some highly efficient and energy-saving chargers have a relatively high purchase price, they can save electricity bills during long-term use.