I recently purchased an Emporia L2 charger (hardwired) and I am getting it installed next week.
I am currently wondering if I should return it and get one that is portable and just get the proper outlet installed.
What do you think is the best option?
I always prefer to have a 50a plug installed outside my house. This is because I was majorly concerned about any issues that would require me to replace the charger. The hardwired one would require an electrician and of course the guy will require some hundred dollars to have the work done.
It turns out my Juicebox charger was a complete POS and I had to replace it after a few months of service. This made me buy an Emporia charged, and install it myself, and it has served me well for around a year now.
I do have a portable one but that stays in the car for traveling.
Replacing a hardwired EVSEs is very simple.
You just need to unscrew three wires from the old EVSE and attach them to the new EVSE. The only thing you need to watch out for is that the wires are torqued down correctly, which requires a torque wrench or screwdriver for a few dollars.
Instead of struggling to find an electrician, I can teach you to change a hardwired EVSE faster than you can find an electrician to get a quote on that.
You just need to have a torque screwdriver or a buddy who works on guns and thus has them on, but it is not as hard as you think.
I own a “dumb” level 2 portable charger with multiple power and a 30 to 50A adapter
This has served me well since 2022 and I just love it.
I usually take it when I travel otherwise it stays hooked up at home.
I currently own my first EV. When buying the car, I chose to have the outlet installed instead of hard-wired. Currently, I love the EV over any car I have ever owned.
For sure if my Amazon level 2 craps out all I have to do is buy a new one
Hardwired is the best option for me too. This is because charging is constant and much safer.
The consensus over this topic is always hardwire whenever it is brought up anywhere. Between melting plugs, and nuisance trips on the dueling GFCI on the EVSE and the breaker, hardwire is less of a headache. In addition, it is also preferred because you can charge at a higher speed sometimes.
I have Emporia installed on a NEMA 14-50 plug. I always prefer the plug-in version because it allows me to unplug and take it with me when I move and I can turn off the circuit breaker when I am away from home for a long time.
I had to purchase a good quality GFCI breaker, Hubbell receptacle, and 6 AWG wires and pay the electrician for the installation.
I can assure you that I have been using this setup for more than 2 years without any issues. If I want fast charging, I just go to a nearby EA charging station.
I would give you a friendly advice that none of them is better than another because It majorly depends on your preferences.
If you prioritize faster charging and don’t mind the higher installation cost, sticking with the hardwired Emporia L2 charger might be the best option. However, if you value flexibility and ease of installation, a portable charger could be more convenient.
Therefore the decision is yours to make.