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PHEV Charger Decision-Making Guide

Which Home Charger is Right for You?

Having the right vehicle charger for your home is an essential part of owning a Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle. With the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, you have three main "levels" of charging to choose from. Each level defines the type of equipment needed and the amount of power it can supply which will affect the time it takes to fully charge your vehicle. Level 1 and Level 2 are the options suitable for most homes while Level 3 (fast-charging) is only available at public charging stations.

We've created a guide below to help you make the right decision that can meet your needs.

As this is only a guide, you should also talk with your dealer or vehicle manufacturer to understand the requirements and features of your Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle. We also highly recommend hiring a Certified Electrician to help assess your needs and ensure your house is up to electrical code. Your Electrician should also be used for any new installations or upgrades of electrical equipment.

Types of Outlets and Home Chargers
As you learn about owning a Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle, you'll likely encounter these terms that describe the types of Chargers you can have at your home:
  • Standard 3-pin Outlet - These are the kind of electrical outlets you'd find throughout your home. They provide 110V of electricity and are the same outlets you use to plug in your TV, microwave, vacuum, or phone.
  • NEMA 14-50 Outlet - These outlets provide up to 240V of electricity and are the same kind as what your dryer or oven use. Because they are a more specialized outlet, they need to be specifically installed by an Electrician at the appropriate location in your house.
  • Level 1 Charger - Your PHEV will likely come included with a Level 1 Charger that works with a 3-pin outlet.
  • Level 2 Charger - This kind of Charger allows you to connect to a NEMA 14-50 Outlet and offers much faster charging for your PHEV.
 

Options for "Garage Orphans"

When you don't have a dedicated place to charge

Home charging is one of the most convenient aspects of Hybrid and EV ownership. However, it not that simple for everyone - especially for people living in condos, apartments, or who have homes without a dedicated driveway or garage.

Here are some ideas you can consider if you find yourself in this situation.

1. Condos and Apartments

If you live in a condo or apartment building, ask the landlord, condo board representative, or building manager to find out if the building already has chargers for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles or if they have plans to install them. In some cases, a private-use charger may be fitted for use by tenants and residents. There may also be options available to install a charger if you have your own assigned parking spot.

Some municipalities and communities are introducing "Right to Charge" legislations to ensure that future residential developments include charging options for residents. New government funding is also enabling charging at more and more condo locations across Canada, so be sure to ask.

2. On-Street Parking

If your only available parking is on the street in front of your home, it may be possible to charge your vehicle using a cord from your home to your vehicle.

Check with your local bylaws and town/city management before considering this option as, in many cases, you may have to follow specific guidelines or it may be prohibited to have electrical cords placed on or near the street.

3. Charging at Work

Some workplaces have EV chargers available. If not, ask you manager, human resources, or building management how this could be installed for employees. Management may be more receptive than you'd think due to the current trend towards adopting environment, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives.

Another option may be to use a Level 1 Charger with an available outdoor outlet near your parking spot. These may be found on the exterior of a building or even at your parking spot (normally used for block heaters). While Level 1 charging is the slowest, it may be enough power to meet your needs. Be sure to ask a building or facility manager first before assuming you can use an outlet.

4. Public Charging Stations

If charging at home or at work isn't an option, you can still take advantage of an ever-growing network of public charging stations. 

By using a CHAdeMO Quick Charger with your Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, you can reach an 80% charge in as little as 38 minutes. With charging stations popping up near shopping centres, libraries, and other public spaces, it's even more convenient to charge up your vehicle while you're out and about.

5. Shared Parking Apps

You may be able to find someone willing to share or rent their parking spot or driveway with an available charger. You can also try downloading a Shared Parking app to search your community, much like you would with AirBnB. Some apps offer the ability to filter your results to show if charging is available.