Should your residential AC charger be installed inside your garage or in an outdoor location? The obvious answer is this: It should be where you park your EV overnight.

Inside job

If you park inside your garage, installing your AC charger inside makes sense. Spark’s line of AC residential chargers gives you the freedom to choose a simple plug-in charging option (Spark AC 40A NEMA Charger), or AC chargers with faster charge times that require hardwire installation by a professional installer (Spark AC 48A EV Charger and Spark AC 80A Charger).

Whether you choose a plug-in or hardwire charging option, your installation location should take into consideration: 

• The most convenient place to locate your charger that’s out of harm’s way.     
• Easy to access 
• Keeps the charging cable out of areas where there is foot traffic so you can minimize the chances of anyone tripping over the cable.

Let’s take this outside

While garage installation offers protection from the elements, Spark’s AC chargers are certified to IP 55, and feature the highest standards of quality performance and construction, so they are made durable enough to withstand outdoor use—especially important if you do not have a garage or indoor parking structure. Spark’s line of AC chargers offer a wide operating temperature range: -30C to +50C/-22F to +122F, so they are tough enough to withstand harsh conditions.

One challenge to outdoor locations is cable length. Often, outdoor parking can be further from the charging unit, which is why Spark’s entire line of AC chargers comes with a premium charger cable (Universal J1772) that’s highly durable and 24.5 feet (7.5-meters) long.

When installing an AC charger outside, however, it is always best to try and minimize exposure to harsh conditions as much as possible. A carport, awning or overhang space can offer additional protection from direct sunlight, rain, wind and snow.

Putting the charger in a place that cannot be seen from outside your property can help reduce the risk of vandalism. With Spark’s AC chargers you do not have to worry about staying connected even if you install your charger outside thanks to convenient WiFi connectivity.

No matter where you decide to hang your Spark AC charger, make sure to follow the installation directions to ensure safe installation and adherence to local electrical codes. Thanks to the certified quality, durability and innovative features of Spark AC chargers, you have the freedom to choose your ideal location, inside or outside, that works best for you.