More and more environmentally conscious consumers are looking for alternatives to gas-powered cars. A key consideration for any EV owner is how to charge their vehicle efficiently and conveniently at home. 3.6kW car chargers are one option for Level 2 charging, albeit slower than the more common 7kW or 22kW chargers. This guide will provide an overview of 3.6kW EV chargers, how they work, their pros and cons, and things to consider before installing one at home.
A 3.6kW electric vehicle charger is a dedicated Level 2 charger that provides up to 3.6 kilowatts of power to charge an EV’s battery. Level 2 chargers operate on 240V circuits, the same as large household appliances like dryers or ovens. They deliver more power than a Level 1 charger plugged into a regular wall outlet but less than DC fast chargers.
3.6kW correlates to a charging rate of approximately 15 amps. So a 3.6kW EV charger will charge slower than a 7kW (30 amp) or 22kW (100 amp) unit. But it still offers faster charging speeds than a regular 120V outlet.
A 3.6kW EV charger works much like any other Level 2 charger. It converts high voltage AC electricity from your home electrical system into DC current that can charge an EV’s battery pack.
The charger connects to a 240V circuit and needs a dedicated 40A breaker. It uses either the J1772 connector for North American cars or a Type 2 connector for European and Asian EVs.
When the EV senses it’s plugged into an external power source, charging begins automatically. The car’s onboard computer manages the power transfer to optimize battery health and charging speed.
Charging continues until the battery is full, then stops automatically. The 3.6kW charger delivers a constant stream of electricity rather than fast “bursts” like DC fast charging.
As the name suggests, a 3.6kW EV charger has a maximum power output of 3.6 kilowatts. This translates to:
So with a 3.6kW charger, you can expect to add about 10-15% charge after 2-3 hours plugged in. This makes it feasible to charge overnight and have a “full tank” each morning.
The lower power does mean longer total charge times. But for many owners who charge at home regularly, the slower speed may not be an issue.
Compared to more powerful Level 2 options, 3.6kW EV chargers have some advantages and disadvantages:
Pros
Cons
The slower charging speed is the main downside. While overnight charges are feasible, long charging sessions of 10 hours or more may be frustrating. Upgrading to a 7kW or 22kW charger later would require a new installation.
A 3.6kW EV charger best suits homeowners who:
For drivers who need more power, a 7kW or 22kW charger is a better fit. But 3.6kW works well for lightly used commuter EVs and plug-in hybrids. It provides cheaper, slower charging for typical daily driving needs.
Here are two examples of EVs where a 3.6kW charger may be sufficient:
Both can fully recharge overnight for daily driving. But occasional long trips may require DC fast charging.
Installing a 3.6kW EV charger requires hiring an experienced electrician. They will:
The charger needs a NEMA 14-50 outlet, the same used for RVs and large appliances. Your home also must have sufficient electrical capacity to support the additional demand safely.
Costs vary, but typically run $500-$1000 for parts and labor. Obtaining permits and upgrades may increase the total. But it remains one of the most affordable and straightforward Level 2 installations.
Home 3.6kW EV chargers range from $300 up to $700 before installation. There are two main product categories:
Basic Chargers – These are no-frills charging stations. They simply provide the electrical connection. Models from manufacturers like Siemens, Bosch, and Clipper Creek offer reliable performance at lower prices.
Smart Chargers – Pricier “smart” EVSEs add features like wifi connectivity, app controls, and power sharing. Companies like Wallbox, EVBox, and ChargePoint offer optionally internet-connected chargers.
Additional costs include the charging cable and connector ($100-$600 for a 25′ cable), permits, and electrician installation fees.
Choosing the right home EV charger involves more than just picking a 3.6kW power rating. Be sure to evaluate:
Take time to understand your needs and constraints before selecting a charging station. Getting the right EVSE match means you can enjoy the convenience of home charging for years to come.
While they are less common, there are also some alternatives to conventional 3.6kW EV chargers:
While pricier and less common, these emerging options provide more flexibility and speed.
Installing any Level 2 EVSE safely requires a certified electrician. While a standard outlet replacement is DIY-friendly, connecting a 40A 240V circuit has hazards if done incorrectly.
When researching installers, look for:
Many charge an hourly rate in the $100-$150 range plus parts costs. Be sure to get a written estimate for the total project cost. Reputable electricians should also handle securing any required permits.
Like all home electronics, using an EV charger adds to your electric bill. The actual costs depend on:
Based on average residential electricity rates around $0.15/kWh, operating a 3.6kW EVSE for 10 hours weekly would add around $20-$25 monthly in energy costs. This equates to roughly 300 miles of driving range.
Calculating your own potential costs involves multiplying your rates, average charging hours, and charger wattage. Smart chargers that track usage can also help monitor charging costs.
To encourage EV adoption, the federal government and some states offer incentives for purchasing and installing EVSEs:
The Database of State Incentives for EVs (DSIRE) website summarizes available incentives nationwide. Your total savings may offset 20-50% of the costs.
When selecting a 3.6kW Level 2 EVSE, these charging station companies offer reliable products:
Poke around EV forums and reviews to see real-world feedback on models. And consult local dealers who can recommend products fit for your region’s weather and electricity constraints.
Slow Level 2 charging works well when your daily commute is within the EV’s range or you have hours to top up at home. Though limited in power, a 3.6kW EVSE provides an affordable pathway to driving electric. For plug-in hybrids and shorter range EVs, it likely meets your charging demands.
But be realistic about your needs. These low-power EVSEs require careful planning for longer trips to allow long charging sessions. Their lower capacity also means you’ll likely need a larger electrical service upgrade compared to a 7kW or 22kW unit. And you may end up upgrading the EVSE later as you drive electric more.
Talk to experienced EV owners and electrical contractors to weigh if a 3.6kW charger fits your situation. While not the fastest charging solution, they make convenient overnight charging possible for a wide range of electric vehicles.
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