As an electrician with over 20 years of experience and installing EV chargers since they have been available, I’ve encountered many homeowners deciding between plug-in and hardwired setups. Understanding their differences is key to making an informed choice. Here’s my professional analysis of their reliability, cost, and charging speeds to help you navigate this decision.
What is a Plug-in EV Charger?
A plug-in EV charger connects to your electric vehicle with a cable and plugs into a standard electrical outlet or a dedicated power socket. Unlike hardwired EV chargers, which are permanently installed and connected to your home’s electrical system, plug-in chargers are portable and can be easily unplugged and moved as needed. While plug-in chargers might seem like a convenient option for EV owners, they come with significant drawbacks that make them less ideal compared to hardwired charging solutions.
For example, plug-in chargers often operate on standard household outlets, which typically supply only 120 volts (Level 1 charging). This means they provide a significantly slower charging rate compared to hardwired Level 2 chargers. For EV owners with busy schedules or long commutes, the extended charging time can become a major inconvenience, requiring overnight charging or even multiple days to fully replenish a battery.
Then there is also the frequent plugging and unplugging of chargers can lead to wear and tear on both the outlet and the charger itself. Over time, this may result in loose connections, reduced efficiency, and the need for costly replacements.
What is a hardwired EV Charger?
A hardwired EV charger, on the other hand, is a type of electric vehicle charging station that is permanently connected to a building’s electrical system. This creates a clean and organized setup, eliminating the need for visible cords or outlets. They can support higher power levels compared to plug-in chargers, making them ideal for faster Level 2 charging and even some Level 3 setups in commercial environments. Additionally, these chargers are often built with robust enclosures, which make them highly suitable for outdoor installations where weather resistance is essential. Hardwired systems can also be customized to meet specific requirements, such as integrating with solar power systems or offering advanced features like load management.
A Tale of Two Systems
Reliability is often one of the deciding factors for many EV owners. Hardwired chargers are directly connected to a dedicated electrical circuit, ensuring consistent and stable power delivery. This eliminates the potential issues caused by shared or overloaded circuits, which can occur with plug-in chargers. Dedicated wiring minimizes fluctuations in voltage and reduces the risk of interruptions, leading to a smoother charging experience.
With the adoption of the 2020 National Electrical Code, changes were introduced, including the requirement for GFCI protection for all 240V outlets powering EV chargers. This presents a challenge for plug-in setups, as the interaction between the GFCI receptacle and the charger can cause nuisance tripping—something I’ve seen happen far too often during installations. Hardwired chargers, however, only require a single GFCI device, significantly reducing these interruptions.
For plug-in chargers, this, of course, means that both the charger itself and the receptacle feeding the plug must be GFCI-protected. But what most people don’t realize is that it’ll lead to potential nuisance tripping. The interaction between the two GFCI devices can cause one or the other to trip, resulting in an interrupted charging session. As such, hardwired chargers offer a more reliable charging experience. As the code intended, they only rely on a single form of GFCI protection, reducing the chances of interruptions during charging sessions.
The Cost of EV Chargers: Initial Investment vs Long-Term Savings
Cost is, of course, a major factor in any decision-making process. Many clients assume that plug-in chargers are cheaper, but this isn’t always the case. Installing a plug-in setup typically requires purchasing a GFCI breaker and a NEMA 14-50 receptacle, which can be expensive and occasionally back-ordered. Additional costs, such as troubleshooting nuisance tripping or replacing GFCI devices, can quickly add up.
But it also depends on your setup. For a hardwire charge, there might also be additional costs due to the need for professional wiring and conduit. However, it can result in lower long-term expenses. The streamlined system reduces the likelihood of recurring issues, possibly making it a more cost-effective option over time.
Blending Function with Form
Aesthetics are an underrated aspect of EV charger installations, particularly for outdoor setups. Plug-in chargers often require larger weatherproof enclosures and an additional electrical box which doesn’t look neat and generally disrupt the clean lines of a home’s exterior. I’ve seen many homeowners grow frustrated with the bulky appearance of plug-in setups.
Conversely, hardwired chargers offer a sleek, minimalist look. The absence of extra enclosures and visible hardware creates a clean and professional appearance. For clients concerned about visual appeal, I always recommend hardwiring the charger and selecting a model that complements their home’s design. Strategic placement and choosing a modern, streamlined charger can make all the difference. As part of my installations, I ensure the setup blends seamlessly into the environment, balancing aesthetics with accessibility.
While hardwired chargers have a cleaner look with fewer visible hardware components, sometimes, making them a preferred choice, particularly for outdoor installations where maintaining an attractive appearance is important.
To enhance the appearance of my EV charger setup, you can make a few minor visual tweaks. For example, you can opt for a charger with a sleek and modern design that complements the overall aesthetics of my home. The clean lines and minimalist features added a touch of sophistication to the charging station.
Charging Speed of an EV Charger
While both plug-in and hardwired chargers generally offer similar speeds, as mentioned, the condition of the plug-in receptacle can impact performance over time. Damaged or worn-out outlets can reduce charging efficiency, and the extra GFCI protection layer may occasionally interfere with the electrical flow. In contrast, hardwired chargers eliminate these vulnerabilities. Their direct connection to the electrical system ensures a consistent and optimal charging speed, provided the electrical panel can handle the load.
Last Thoughts on Plug-In Chargers Vs Hardwire Chargers
The reliability, cost, aesthetics, and charging speeds of plug-in and hardwired EV chargers offer different options for EV owners, presenting unique pros and cons for each type. Eventually, the decision boils down to preference and needs.
Regardless of the type of charger, proper installation and adherence to electrical codes are essential for a safe and efficient charging experience. With EVs becoming mainstream, the demand for reliable and convenient charging options will only continue to increase. So, it makes perfect sense to understand the differences between plug-in and hardwired chargers. If you need EV installation, then give Gladiator Electric a call.
Mike has been in the industry since 2000 and is the owner of Gladiator Electric. After working for local Bergen County established electrical contractors and completing a 5 year state-sanctioned apprenticeship program, Mike become a foreman for a large company where he remained for over a decade. As an accomplished Martial artist in Brazilian jiu jitsu , Muay Thai & boxing Mike has learned focus, tolerance, fairness, humbleness, discipline and personal growth.
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