Hey everyone! I’m planning to install a Level 2 charger in my garage, right next to my electrical panel. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the pros and cons of wired vs. plug-in chargers. Also, what are the best budget-friendly options out there?
I use the Ford mobile charger plugged into a 240V outlet at 40 amps. It works great and came with my truck.
Torrance said:
I use the Ford mobile charger plugged into a 240V outlet at 40 amps. It works great and came with my truck.
I have that charger too! How much charge do you get in an hour? I’m looking for something a bit faster if possible.
@Merrick
I usually get about 30% (around 81 miles) overnight from 12 AM to 6 AM. I charge at this time because my utility offers reduced rates.
@Merrick
The mobile charger maxes out at 7kW/hr, so it’s fine for short trips. I drive long distances, so I upgraded to a 48-amp charger on a 60-amp breaker. It gives me 11.5kW, which is the fastest the truck can handle unless it’s a 2023 or older model.
Torrance said:
I use the Ford mobile charger plugged into a 240V outlet at 40 amps. It works great and came with my truck.
Is that charger universal? Like, if you switch to a different EV, will it still work? Or is it Ford-specific?
@Harley
It should work with most EVs. From what I can tell, it’s not ‘smart’—everything like scheduling and charge limits is controlled through FordPass.
I also use the Ford mobile charger. It’s a bit slower than I’d like, but I only have a 125-amp service, so I can’t go higher. How far do you usually drive daily? If it’s under 100 miles, the mobile charger should be fine as long as you don’t have charging restrictions during the day. I drive about 80 miles daily, plug in at 4 PM, and it’s at 90% by 9 or 10 PM. That’s a rough estimate since I don’t track it too closely.
@Hollis
That actually sounds pretty decent. I think I just need to get a 240V plug installed closer to my vehicle since my mobile charger cable doesn’t reach.
Merrick said:
@Hollis
That actually sounds pretty decent. I think I just need to get a 240V plug installed closer to my vehicle since my mobile charger cable doesn’t reach.
I’m an electrician, so I installed mine myself. If you’re not comfortable turning off your panel, I’d recommend hiring an electrician. You might also consider having them run a 1” raceway in case you ever want to upgrade to a faster charger in the future.
@Hollis
You can still install a 48-amp charger on a 125-amp panel. The odds of you using 125 amps all at once are pretty low unless you have all-electric appliances. With good load planning, it should work fine.
Grizzl-E Ultimate 48!
Thea said:
Grizzl-E Ultimate 48!
Mine’s on the way! Solid charger.
There’s a ton of info on EV chargers in this forum. Here’s a quick rundown:
Recommended Chargers:
- ChargePoint Home Flex
- WallBox Pulsar Plus
- Tesla Wall Connector (including the Universal version)
- Flo
- Enphase
- Emporia and Autel (newer but well-reviewed options)
Costco often has the WallBox at a good discount, and some electric companies offer rebates for certain models.
Plug-in vs. Hardwired:
- Hardwired: More reliable, safer, and usually cheaper since it doesn’t require an EV-rated outlet and GFCI breaker.
- Plug-in: More flexible if you ever need to replace or move it, but outlets can overheat over time, causing failures.
Check if your electric company offers ‘Time of Use’ (TOU) rates for off-peak EV charging. If so, make sure you get a charger compatible with their program. My TOU rate is 8 cents per kWh instead of 22 cents, which adds up fast!
ChargePoint works with most utilities but has a weaker WiFi connection. Emporia recently got added to my utility’s list, and it’s been great.
For reviews, check out ‘State of Charge’ on YouTube—Tom does the best charger reviews.
I got the Tesla Universal Wall Connector. Works great, and the app is solid. It’s nice because I can let friends charge their Teslas, and if I switch to a car with NACS in the future, I’m set. Also, if I ever sell my house, it might be a nice bonus for buyers.
Most chargers do the same thing—it just comes down to minor differences in apps and looks. ‘State of Charge’ on YouTube does great deep dives.
If you’re looking for the best value, check with your utility for rebates. Mine only offers discounts for ‘smart’ chargers, and only ChargePoint qualifies.
Popular brands with good reputations: Grizzl-E, ChargePoint, Emporia, Tesla.
Plug-in vs. Hardwired:
- Hardwired can handle higher amperage.
- Plug-in is easier to replace if needed.
Both work fine, just depends on your needs.
WallBox Pulsar Plus from Costco. Good value, and it has built-in load sharing if you want to add another one later. Hardwiring is better.
I’m about to install a charger. Any thoughts on the Ford Connected Charge Unit (48A)?