Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular as more people seek eco-friendly and efficient transportation options. As more EVs hit the road, it’s important to ensure that charging infrastructure is in place to support them.
One key factor to consider when it comes to EV charging is selecting the right charger. There are a variety of charging options available, including Level 1 and Level 2 chargers, as well as different amperage ratings.
In this post, we’ll focus specifically on the differences between 32 Amp and 40 Amp EV chargers. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each can help you determine which one is the best fit for your individual needs.
Understanding Amps and Charging Speed
Before diving into the differences between 32 Amp and 40 Amp EV chargers, it’s important to understand how charging speed is affected by amps. Electric current is measured in amps. The higher the amps, the faster the charging speed.
A 32 Amp EV charger can deliver up to 7.7 kW of power, whereas a 40 Amp EV charger can deliver up to 9.6 kW. This means that a 40 Amp charger may be capable of charging your EV faster than a 32 Amp charger. It is important to note, however, that the actual charging speed will also be determined by the capacity of your EV battery.
A 32 Amp charger, for example, can charge a 60 kWh battery from empty to full in about 9 hours, while a 40 Amp charger can do it in about 7 hours. If your EV has a smaller battery capacity, the difference in charging time between a 32 Amp and a 40 Amp charger may be less noticeable.
It’s also worth noting that, while higher amp ratings can result in faster charging times, they can also be more expensive. When deciding which charger is best for you, please consider the cost versus the potential benefits.
Differences Between 32 Amp and 40 Amp EV Chargers
While 32 Amp and 40 Amp EV chargers may appear to be similar at first glance, there are some important differences to consider when deciding between the two.
Maximum Charging Rates and Resulting Charging Times Differ
To begin with, the maximum charging rates and subsequent charging times differ between the two chargers. A 32 Amp charger, as previously stated, can deliver up to 7.7 kW, while a 40 Amp charger can deliver up to 9.6 kW. This means that a 40 Amp charger can charge an EV faster than a 32 Amp charger. The actual charging time, however, will be determined by the battery capacity of the EV being charged.
Costs Differ
The cost of each charger is a different aspect to take into account. In general, 32 Amp chargers tend to be less expensive than 40 Amp chargers. If you’re on a tight budget, a 32 Amp charger may be the more affordable option. However, it’s crucial to compare the price of a 40 Amp charger against the potential advantages of a quicker charging speed.
Electrical Specifications and Installation Requirements Differ
The two chargers have different electrical specifications and installation requirements. Whereas a 40 Amp charger needs a 50 amp circuit and a 240 volt outlet, a 32 Amp charger only needs a 40 amp circuit. Depending on your home’s electrical system, one charger may be easier to install than the other.
Ultimately, the choice between a 32 Amp and 40 Amp charger will depend on your individual needs and preferences. A 32 Amp charger can be the best option if you place a higher priority on affordability. But, a 40 Amp charger can be worthwhile if you frequently use your EV and value faster charging periods. When selecting your choice, it’s crucial to take budget, charging frequency, and battery capacity into account.
Advantages and Disadvantages of 32 Amp and 40 Amp EV Chargers
Each type of charger has its own unique advantages and disadvantages to consider.
Advantages of a 32 Amp EV Charger:
- Lower cost compared to 40 Amp chargers
- May be easier to install if your home’s electrical system cannot accommodate a 50 amp circuit
- Sufficient for many EVs with smaller battery capacities, resulting in reasonable charging times
Disadvantages of a 32 Amp EV Charger:
- Slower charging times compared to 40 Amp chargers
- May not be sufficient for larger EVs with higher battery capacities, resulting in longer charging times
Advantages of a 40 Amp EV Charger:
- Faster charging times compared to 32 Amp chargers
- May be more suitable for larger EVs with higher battery capacities
- Future-proofing in case you upgrade to an EV with a larger battery capacity in the future
Disadvantages of a 40 Amp EV Charger:
- Higher cost compared to 32 Amp chargers
- Requires a 50 amp circuit and may be more difficult to install in some homes
It’s important to carefully consider these advantages and disadvantages in the context of your own situation before making a decision.
Examples of Best 32 Amp and 40 Amp EV Chargers
Examples: ENEL X JuiceBox 32 and 40 EV chargers
Buy JuiceBox 32 Amp EV Charger
Buy JuiceBox 40 Amp EV Charger
The Enel X JuiceBox 32/40 EV charger is a Level 2 EV charging station designed for residential and commercial use.
For the 32 Amp version, with a maximum charging power of 32 amps or 7.7 kW, it can charge an EV up to 7 times faster than a standard Level 1 charger.
For the 40 Amp version, with a maximum charging power of 40 amps and a peak output of 10 kW, it can charge an EV up to 9 times faster than a standard Level 1 charger.
The JuiceBox EV charger features a compact and sleek design that can be installed both indoors and outdoors. It comes with built-in WiFi connectivity and compatibility with the JuiceNet app, which allows you to monitor and control your charging sessions from your phone or tablet.
The charger also offers a range of smart features, including scheduling, energy monitoring, and load balancing, which helps to optimize the power distribution at your home and avoid overloading the electrical system.
It can connect with Amazon Alexa and Google Home, allowing you to control your charging sessions using voice commands.
The JuiceBox is also equipped with advanced safety features, including ground fault and overcurrent protection, to ensure safe and reliable charging for your EV.
Choosing the Right EV Charger for Your Needs
It can be difficult to choose the best EV charger for your needs. Here are some factors to consider:
Battery Capacity
The battery capacity of your EV is an important factor to consider when choosing a charger. If your EV has a smaller battery capacity, a 32 Amp charger may be sufficient. However, if your EV has a larger battery capacity, a 40 Amp charger may be necessary to achieve reasonable charging times.
Charging Frequency
How often you need to charge your EV is another factor to consider. If you frequently use your EV, a 40 Amp charger may be worth the investment to reduce your charging times. However, if you only need to charge your EV occasionally, a 32 Amp charger may be sufficient.
Budget
Your budget is another important consideration. If you’re on a tight budget, a 32 Amp charger may be the more affordable option. However, if faster charging times are a priority, a 40 Amp charger may be worth the extra cost.
Electrical System
It’s important to consider the electrical system in your home before choosing a charger. If your home cannot accommodate a 50 amp circuit, a 32 Amp charger may be the only option.
Future-Proofing
If you plan on upgrading to an EV with a larger battery capacity in the future, it may be worth investing in a 40 Amp charger to future-proof your charging needs.
In conclusion, the best EV charger for you will rely on your unique demands and priorities. When making a decision, take into account elements like battery capacity, charging frequency, budget, electrical system, and future-proofing.
Conclusion
Choosing the right EV charger is an important decision that should not be taken lightly. Although both 32 Amp and 40 Amp chargers have their own advantages and disadvantages, it ultimately comes down to your individual needs and priorities.
If you have a smaller EV with a lower battery capacity and don’t need to charge frequently, a 32 Amp charger may be sufficient for your needs. However, if you have a larger EV with a higher battery capacity and need to charge frequently, a 40 Amp charger may be necessary to achieve reasonable charging times.
It’s also important to consider your budget, electrical system, and future-proofing needs when choosing a charger.
By considering these factors and weighing the pros and cons of each type of charger, you can make an informed decision and choose the right EV charger for your needs.