Best EV Chargers for Home in Colorado
Home Charging Is the Real Game Changer
Electric vehicles are booming in Colorado.
Whether you drive a Tesla Model, a Rivian, or one of the best small EVs, charging at home is the most convenient way to keep your car ready to roll.
Instead of circling public charging stations, you simply plug in at night and wake up to a full battery.
But here’s the real question: what are the best EV chargers for home? The answer depends on your vehicle, your electrical panel, and your lifestyle.
In this guide, we break down the best EV chargers, explain charging speeds, compare 40 amps vs 48 amps, and show you why a licensed electrician is essential for getting your charger installed the right way.
Why Home Charging Matters
Public charging stations are useful, but they come with drawbacks. Costs are higher, stations can be crowded, and you waste time waiting. Charging at home solves all of that.
- Convenience: Plug in when you park, not when it’s “your turn” at a station.
- Savings: Electricity at home is about one-third the cost of public fast charging.
- Control: Schedule charging for off-peak hours and lower your utility bill.
- Peace of Mind: No more worrying about range on a snowy Colorado morning.
For most homeowners, the smart move is to install a Level 2 EV charger at home.
Levels of EV Charging Explained
Level 1 Charging
- Uses a standard 120-volt wall outlet
- Adds 3–5 miles of range per hour
- Works with the cord included with your EV
- Very slow: charging an EV can take multiple days
Level 2 Charging
- Uses a 240-volt outlet or hardwire installation
- Delivers 6 to 11.5 kW of power
- Adds 25–45 miles of range per hour
- The best choice for homeowners in Colorado
Level 3 / DC Fast Charging
- Uses 400–800 volt direct current
- Adds 150–350 miles of range in under an hour
- Found at public charging stations, not realistic for homes (too expensive)
For homeowners, the choice is clear: Level 2 chargers are the sweet spot for speed, cost, and practicality.
How to Choose the Best EV Home Charger
When deciding which charger to buy, keep these factors in mind:
Amperage and Charging Speeds
Most Level 2 EV chargers support 40 amps or 48 amps. Higher amps give faster charging speeds, but only if your vehicle and electrical panel can handle it.
- 40 amps: Adds about 30 miles of range per hour
- 48 amps: Adds about 45 miles per hour
Connector Types: J1772 or NACS
In North America, most EVs use the J1772 connector. Tesla uses the North American Charging Standard (NACS). Some chargers now support both, such as the Tesla Universal Wall Connector.
Installation Method
- Plug-in chargers connect to a NEMA 14-50 or 6-50 outlet.
- Hardwire installation provides higher output and a cleaner look but requires an electrician.
Smart Features
Some chargers connect to Wi-Fi and apps. You can:
- Monitor energy use
- Schedule charging during off-peak hours
- Track cost per mile
- Control the charger remotely
Weather Protection
Colorado weather is unpredictable. A wall-mounted charger with a NEMA 3R or NEMA 4 rating can handle snow, ice, and hail.
Cable Length
Most chargers offer a 23–25 ft cord, long enough for garages and driveways. Make sure the charger includes proper cord management to keep things tidy.
The Best EV Chargers for Home in 2025
Here are the chargers we recommend most often for Colorado homeowners:
1. ChargePoint Home Flex – Best Overall
- Adjustable from 16A to 50 amps
- Compatible with J1772 and Tesla (with adapter)
- Polished app with cost tracking and scheduling
- Works with most rebates in Colorado
- Easy plug-in or hardwire installation
- Why it’s great: Reliable, flexible, and backed by one of the biggest names in EV charging stations.
2. Emporia Level 2 – Best Budget Charger
- Supports up to 48 amps
- Affordable, with excellent value
- Optional load management avoids costly electrical panel upgrades
- Wi-Fi app for tracking energy and cost
- Why it’s great: Budget-friendly without giving up smart features.
3. Grizzl-E – Best for Colorado Weather
- Rugged aluminum enclosure, NEMA 4 rated
- Output up to 40 amps
- No-frills design, but rock solid in snow or heat
- Why it’s great: Built tough for Colorado winters and outdoor installs.
4. Tesla Wall Connector & Universal Wall Connector – Best for Tesla Owners
- Tesla Wall Connector: up to 48 amps, slim cable, Tesla app integration
- Universal Wall Connector: works with both J1772 or NACS vehicles
- Supports power sharing between multiple chargers
- Why it’s great: The perfect fit for Tesla households or mixed garages.
5. Wallbox Pulsar Plus – Best Compact Option
- Up to 48 amps
- Wall-mounted with a small footprint
- Smart scheduling and clean app interface
- Why it’s great: A compact charger that saves space while delivering fast charging.
Installation in Colorado: What to Expect
Buying a charger is step one. Having it installed safely is step two. That’s where GO EV Colorado comes in.
Electrical Panel Check
A licensed electrician will confirm your panel can handle an additional 40 amps or 48 amps. Some older panels need upgrades to 200 amps.
Charger Installed Correctly
We handle permits, wiring, grounding, and either plug-in or hardwire installation. This keeps your system safe, efficient, and compliant with code.
Rebates and Tax Credits
Colorado offers rebates up to $1,300 through the Charge Ahead program. The federal tax credit covers 30% of charger + installation costs (up to $1,000). We help with the paperwork.
Cost
Installation can range from $500 to $2,500 depending on panel upgrades, distance from panel to charger, and whether trenching or conduit is required.
Charger Maintenance and Safety Tips
- Keep cables off the ground using wall-mounted storage.
- Avoid sharp bends in the cord, especially in winter.
- Clean connectors regularly to prevent dirt build-up.
- Have your electrical panel inspected every few years to handle added load.
Mistakes Homeowners Make
- Ignoring panel capacity: Buying a 48-amp charger when the panel cannot support it.
- Skipping permits: Inspections protect your home and insurance coverage.
- DIY installs: Charging an EV isn’t a weekend project. Licensed electricians ensure safety.
- Buying too small: A 16A charger may feel cheap, but it won’t meet daily needs.
FAQs
What are the best EV chargers for home?
The top models are ChargePoint Home Flex, Emporia, Grizzl-E, Tesla Wall Connector, Tesla Universal Wall Connector, and Wallbox Pulsar Plus.
What is the best Level 2 EV charger for home?
For most Colorado homeowners, the ChargePoint Home Flex is the best Level 2 EV charger. It offers flexible charging speeds, detailed energy tracking, and wide rebate eligibility.
Do I need to upgrade my electrical panel?
Not always. If your home supports a new 40 amp or 48 amp circuit, you may not need an upgrade. If your panel is full or rated below 150 amps, an upgrade may be necessary.
What is the North American Charging Standard?
Tesla developed the North American Charging Standard (NACS), now adopted by many automakers. Most other EVs still use the J1772 connector. Some chargers now support both.
How fast will a Level 2 charger fill my battery?
A 40A charger typically adds 30 miles per hour. A 48 amp charger can add 45 miles per hour. Actual charge rate depends on your EV’s onboard charger.
Can I mount my charger outside?
Yes. Choose a charger with a NEMA 3R or NEMA 4 rating. These units handle snow, rain, and Colorado’s unpredictable climate.
Do I need hardwire installation?
Not always. Many chargers plug into wall outlets with a NEMA 14-50 plug. Hardwire installation is recommended for maximum charging speeds or outdoor setups.
How much does installation cost in Colorado?
Most EV charger installations cost between $500 and $2,500 depending on panel upgrades and wiring distance. Rebates and credits reduce final cost.
Are rebates still available?
Yes. Colorado and federal programs offer rebates and credits through at least 2026. GO EV Colorado helps homeowners apply for these savings.
Why Choose GO EV Colorado
GO EV Colorado isn’t just about recommending the best EV chargers for home. We install them every day across Denver, Boulder, and Colorado Springs.
We know local code, weather challenges, and rebate programs. From electrical panel upgrades to charger installation, we make the process simple and stress-free.
👉 Schedule a Free Estimate today and let us help you charge smarter.
