The plug-in version of the Electrify America HomeStation is pretty simple to install. After attaching the mounting bracket to a stud on the wall with the two provided screws, you can then slide the body of the unit into place and secure it with four additional screws. The company even provides you with a template for easier installation. Then all you need to do is plug your NEMA 14-50 plug into your dedicated outlet and you’re good to go.

One nice feature is that the charger’s maximum output can be configured during installation for 40 amps, 32 amps, or 16 amps to fit almost any home electrical panel rating. This will help reduce installation costs and perhaps even prevent the need for a costly panel upgrade.

There’s also a hardwired version available. Remember, any time you install a hardwired EV charging station in your home, it’s always good practice to hire a licensed and bonded electrician to make sure it’s done safely. Electrify Home offers third-party installation packages for the HomeStation starting at $695.

The Electrify America HomeStation can deliver up to 9.6 kW to your EV, which should allow you to add about 33 miles of range per hour of charging, depending on your EV’s efficiency. What it can’t do is power share between multiple units or participate in utility demand response programs, but Electrify America says that those features will be coming sometime in the future.

HomeStation users have the benefit of Electrify America’s robust app working alongside their charger to make their charging experience even more seamless. The unit’s WiFi features allow consumers to sync their charger with the app, which can be used to start and stop charging sessions remotely, schedule future charging sessions, and even view its current charging status. Users can also track their charging history (whether on Electrify America’s public network or when using the HomeStation) all in one app.

We have to mention that we really weren’t impressed with the connection holster, though– we found it impossible to get the insert to stay attached to the base without swapping out the original screw for a longer one. That’s really poor design. As a result, we recommend that HomeStation buyers consider purchasing an aftermarket connector holster with cable management like this one if they have trouble with the original.

Testing

We make sure to put the EV chargers we review through tests that simulate real-world experiences that the units might face, and the Electrify America HomeStation got its time in the spotlight. We tested both the durability of its connector and its reaction to extreme cold weather environments so that you can make the most informed purchase possible.

The Connector Drop Test

A new test that we’ve just started doing is the connector drop test– where we drop the connector of our reviewed unit five times from the average charging height on an EV. Why do we do this? Because if that connector is damaged or outright breaks, it’s almost always going to be cheaper to replace the unit than to get a hold of replacement parts and fix the old one. That’s a lot of money to lose over a simple (and common) accident. The Electrify America Home Station passed this test with flying colors and not a single hint of damage outside of a faint scuff mark. We’re pleased to find that it is such a well-made connector.

The Cable Deep Freeze Test

In order to test how the cable of an EV charging station would hold up in extremely cold weather, we toss one into a commercial ice cream freezer for at least 12 hours. The temperature in the freezer measured at -14.5° F (-25.8° C) when we pulled the Homestation out, and unfortunately the cable proved to be really stiff. It wasn’t terrible, but it wasn’t very good, either.

If you are looking for an EV charger whose cable does well in more extreme weather, we’d have to recommend the ChargePoint Home Flex over this one.

Tom's Rating for the Electrify America HomeStation

After averaging the ChargerRater score with my personal score of 4.45 stars out of 5 for this unit, the Electrify America HomeStation finished up with an overall score of 4.3 stars out of 5. While it does have its shortcomings, it’s a very solid unit, and having the ability to monitor all of your charging through one app is fantastic.

The Electrify America HomeStation is available from Amazon for $649. Check out our full review in the video above and let us know what you think about the HomeStation in the comments below.