Battery Tender eCharge 32 AMP EV Charger Review
The Battery Tender eCharge 32 AMP EV Charger is a versatile Level 1+2 electric vehicle charger, compatible with 120V or 240V power sources. Offering 16A or 32A output, this portable EV charger is perfect for indoor and outdoor use, featuring multiple plug options like 5-15p, 5-20p, and NEMA 14-50R for flexible charging. Ideal for fast, reliable EV charging at home or on the go.
The Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger is one of the most versatile and practical chargers in Battery Tender’s EV chargers lineup. Unlike many other 32-amp EV chargers we have reviewed, it supports both Level 1 and Level 2 charging, making it a great option for home or portable use.
I’m an EV charging enthusiast. I installed and tested the Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger, evaluating its performance with NEMA 5-15P, 5-20P, and 14-50P outlets and covers.
Summary: The Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger is a compact and reliable charging solution. It delivers up to 28.5 miles of range per hour at 7.6kW and supports 120V and 240V charging with a NEMA 14-50P plug and a NEMA 5-15P adapter. The LCD provides clear charging status updates, including a mounting bracket, charge plug holder, and carry bag for convenience. While the lack of smart features like app connectivity may be a drawback for some users, its simple plug-and-play design ensures hassle-free operation.
In this review of the Battery Tender eCharge 32, I discuss my experience with the charger, its key features, installation options, charging performance, included accessories, and potential alternatives.
Key Features of the Battery Tender eCharge 32 AMP EV Charger
- Dual Charging Capability – Supports both Level 1 (120V) and Level 2 (240V) charging, giving users the flexibility to charge anywhere.
- Multiple Plug Options – Works with NEMA 5-15P, NEMA 5-20P, and NEMA 14-50R outlets, ensuring compatibility with various home and public charging setups.
- Adjustable Power Output – Charges at 16A on 120V or 32A on 240V, allowing for faster charging when higher power is available.
- True Portability – Easily switches between power levels, making it perfect for home, work, or road trips.
- Future-Proof Design – Ideal for users who may upgrade their electrical vehicle branch circuit in the future without needing to buy a new charger.
Whether you need a reliable home charger or a versatile travel option, the Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger delivers performance, flexibility, and long-term value.
Battery Tender eCharge 32 AMP EV Charger Installations
This comprehensive guide covers all essential aspects of installing the Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger, including wiring diagrams, compatible outlets, and protective covers for both 120V and 240V setups.
- 120V Installations (Level 1 Charging): Uses 3-prong outlets like 5-15P and 5-20P, which provide 3.84kW output lower power output, making them ideal for basic, overnight charging.
- 240V Installations (Level 2 Charging): Requires a 4-prong NEMA 14-50R outlet, delivering 7.68kW output, twice the power of a 120V connection, allowing for significantly faster charging times.
Whether you’re setting up a Level 1 home charger or upgrading to Level 2 for faster charging, this guide ensures a safe, efficient, and reliable installation.
How to Install the Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger on a 120V Electrical Supply
Installing the Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger on a 120V electrical supply provides slower Level 1 charging speeds, typically adding around 3–5 miles of range per hour. We recommend this setup for users with limited electrical capacity or those who need a basic overnight charging solution.
Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger Installation Guide (120V)
This step-by-step guide walks you through the installation process for the Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger on a 120V electrical supply. It covers essential aspects such as wiring diagrams, recommended 3-prong outlets (5-15P and 5-20P), and protective outlet covers.
NEMA 5-15P Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger Installation Guide (120V)
We installed and tested the Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger using a NEMA 5-15P (120V) outlet to evaluate performance, safety, and ease of installation. Our goal was to ensure proper wiring, identify the best outlets for reliable charging, and test outlet covers for durability.
- Wiring Setup: We used 12 AWG copper wires to minimize voltage drop.
- Circuit Protection: A 20A single-pole breaker was installed to meet NEC requirements and support the minimum amperage of the charger which is 16 amps.
- Installation Process: We wired the hot (black) to the brass terminal, neutral (white) to the silver terminal, and ground (green) to the ground screw, ensuring a solid and secure connection.
After testing multiple outlets, we found that some provided a stronger grip and better conductivity, reducing heat buildup and improving overall charging reliability. We also installed and evaluated outlet covers to determine the best options for protecting against dust, moisture, and everyday wear.
It’s worth noting that the Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger supports 16-32 amps. However, most NEMA 5-15P outlets are protected by a 15-amp breaker, which limits the charger’s power output. To take full advantage of the charger’s 16-amp capability at 120V, we recommend upgrading to a dedicated 20-amp circuit breaker. For detailed guidance, refer to our 32-Amp Battery Tender eCharge EV Charger NEMA 5-15P Circuit Wiring Diagram (120V).
32-Amp Battery Tender eCharge EV Charger NEMA 5-15P Terminal Wiring Diagram (120V)
The following diagram illustrates the terminal wiring configuration we used when installing the Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger with a NEMA 5-15P outlet (120V).
We followed standard electrical practices to ensure a safe, secure, and efficient connection.
- Hot (Line): The black wire is connected to the brass terminal.
- Neutral: The white wire is secured to the silver terminal.
- Ground: The green or bare copper wire is attached to the green ground screw.
Through testing, we found that using commercial-grade outlets provided better plug retention and conductivity, reducing the risk of loose connections and overheating. Properly tightening the terminals ensured minimal resistance and maximum power transfer, leading to a more stable and reliable charging experience.
32-Amp Battery Tender eCharge EV Charger NEMA 5-15P Circuit Wiring Diagram (120V)
The circuit wiring diagram below shows how we properly wired the NEMA 5-15P outlet for use with the Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger while adhering to NEC safety standards.
- Wire Gauge: We used 12 AWG copper wire for runs under 50 feet to minimize voltage drop and ensure efficient power delivery.
- Breaker Size: A 20A single-pole breaker was installed to protect the 16-amp circuit.
- Conduit and Wire Type: THHN/THWN-2 wires were used in the conduit for exposed runs. NM-B (Romex) was used for in-wall installations.
By using a dedicated circuit, we prevented voltage fluctuations and overload issues, ensuring that the charger operated consistently at 3.84 kW output without tripping breakers. Additionally, we verified proper grounding continuity to maximize safety and electrical reliability.
Best NEMA 5-15 Outlets for Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger (120V)
From our hands-on experience, these NEMA 5-15 outlets offered the best combination of secure plug fit, heat resistance, and long-term durability for safe EV charging.
Recommended NEMA 5-15P Outlet Covers for Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger (120V)
We installed and tested weatherproof and in-use outlet covers to find the most reliable choices for garages, outdoor setups, and indoor installations. Our recommendations focus on build quality, ease of use, and protection against the elements.
NEMA 5-20P Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger Installation Guide (120V)
This section provides a step-by-step guide for installing the Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger using a NEMA 5-20P outlet (120V). We installed and tested this setup to assess charging efficiency, outlet performance, and electrical safety.
- Why NEMA 5-20P? This outlet supports 20A circuits, offering a higher-powered Level 1 charging option (3.8kW output) compared to a standard NEMA 5-15P outlet which uses 15amps, and this installation requires a dedicated circuit breaker upgrade to 20 amps.
- Installation Process: We wired a dedicated 20A circuit, ensuring proper breaker sizing and conductor selection to handle the increased power demand.
- Testing & Results: Our tests showed reduced voltage drop and more stable charging compared to a 15A circuit, making this a better choice for frequent Level 1 EV charging.
32-Amp Battery Tender eCharge EV Charger NEMA 5-20P Terminal Wiring Diagram (120V)
The wiring diagram below details how we properly connected the NEMA 5-20P outlet for the Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger, ensuring safe and efficient power delivery.
- Hot (Line): The black wire was connected to the brass terminal.
- Neutral: The white wire was secured to the silver terminal.
- Ground: The green or bare copper wire was attached to the green ground screw.
During installation, we found that higher-quality NEMA 5-20P outlets provided better grip and lower heat buildup, ensuring a secure and reliable connection.
32-Amp Battery Tender eCharge EV Charger NEMA 5-20P Circuit Wiring Diagram (120V)
To ensure a safe and efficient electrical setup, we installed a dedicated 20A circuit for the NEMA 5-20P outlet, following NEC guidelines. The 32-Amp Battery Tender eCharge EV Charger NEMA 5-20P circuit wiring diagram below illustrates our installation process.
- Wire Gauge: We used 12 AWG copper wire to prevent voltage drop and overheating.
- Breaker Size: A 20A single-pole breaker was installed to properly protect the electric vehicle branch circuit.
- Conduit and Wire Type: THHN/THWN-2 wires were used in the conduit for exposed installations. NM-B (Romex) was used for in-wall wiring.
After testing, we confirmed that using a dedicated 20A circuit improved charging stability, preventing breaker trips and voltage drops that can occur when sharing power with other devices.
Best NEMA 5-20 Outlets for Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger (120V)
We installed and tested multiple NEMA 5-20 outlets to identify the best-performing options for secure plug retention, durability, and heat resistance. Our recommendations focus on:
- High-quality brass contacts for improved conductivity.
- Heavy-duty thermoplastic housing for long-term reliability.
- Tamper-resistant and commercial-grade models for enhanced safety.
Through real-world use, we found that premium outlets provide a more secure connection, reducing heat buildup and wear over time.
Recommended NEMA 5-20 Outlet Covers for Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger (120V)
To protect our NEMA 5-20P outlets from moisture, dust, and impact damage, we tested various weatherproof and tamper-resistant outlet covers in both indoor and outdoor environments.
- Weatherproof covers: Ideal for outdoor installations where exposure to rain or dust is a concern.
- In-use covers: Designed to allow charging while keeping the outlet protected.
- Heavy-duty outlet plates: Reinforced to withstand frequent plug insertion and removal.
Our recommendations focus on durability, ease of use, and maximum protection, ensuring your EV charger setup remains safe and long-lasting.
How to Install the Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger on a 240V Electrical Supply
Installing the Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger on a 240V electrical supply enables Level 2 charging, significantly reducing charging time by delivering up to 25 miles of range per hour. This option is best for faster, more efficient charging and is recommended for daily EV use.
Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger Installation Guide (240V)
This guide covers the installation process for setting up the Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger on a 240V circuit using a NEMA 14-50 outlet. We installed and tested this configuration to assess charging speed, outlet performance, and electrical reliability.
- Why 240V? A Level 2 charging setup provides significantly faster charging times compared to 120V Level 1 charging.
- Installation Process: We wired a dedicated 50A circuit, ensuring proper breaker sizing and wire gauge selection to meet NEC safety standards.
- Testing & Results: Our testing showed reduced charge times, stable voltage, and minimal heat buildup, making this the best option for home EV charging.
32-Amp Battery Tender eCharge EV Charger NEMA 14-50P Terminal Wiring Diagram (240V)
The following wiring diagram illustrates how we correctly wired the NEMA 14-50P outlet terminal to ensure safe and efficient 240V power delivery to the Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger.
- Hot (Line 1 & Line 2): The black and red wires were connected to the two brass hot terminals, supplying 240V power.
- Neutral: The white wire was secured to the silver neutral terminal.
- Ground: The green or bare copper wire was attached to the ground screw.
Through real-world testing, we confirmed that using commercial-grade NEMA 14-50 outlets provided strong plug retention, better conductivity, and improved durability, reducing the risk of loose connections and overheating.
32-Amp Battery Tender eCharge EV Charger NEMA 14-50P Circuit Wiring Diagram (240V)
This circuit wiring diagram details our circuit wiring diagram for a dedicated 240V circuit powering the Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger through a NEMA 14-50 outlet.
- Wire Gauge: We used 8 AWG copper wire for runs under 50 feet to minimize voltage drop.
- Breaker Size: A dedicated 40A double-pole breaker was installed to handle the charger’s 32A load safely.
- Conduit and Wire Type: We recommend THHN/THWN-2 wire in conduit for exposed runs and NM-B (Romex) for in-wall installations.
Our testing confirmed that a dedicated circuit prevented voltage drops and breaker trips, ensuring stable, efficient charging with minimal heat buildup.
Best NEMA 14-50 Outlets for Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger (240V)
We tested multiple NEMA 14-50 outlets to determine the best options for long-term reliability, heat resistance, and secure connections. Our recommendations focus on:
- Heavy-duty brass terminals for improved conductivity and heat dissipation.
- Durable thermoplastic housing to withstand frequent plug-in cycles.
- Industrial and commercial-grade options for better retention and longevity.
Our testing with the outlets below revealed that high-quality models significantly reduced heat buildup and ensured a secure connection, making them essential for safe and efficient Level 2 charging.
Recommended NEMA 14-50 Outlet Covers for Battery Tender eCharge 32-Amp EV Charger (240V)
To protect NEMA 14-50 outlets from dust, moisture, and mechanical damage, we tested various weatherproof and tamper-resistant covers in indoor and outdoor environments.
- Weatherproof covers: Essential for outdoor installations where exposure to rain and dirt is a concern.
- In-use covers: Designed to allow charging while keeping the outlet protected.
- Heavy-duty wall plates: Reinforced to withstand frequent plug insertions and removals.
Our testing with the outlet covers below confirmed that using a proper cover prevents premature wear and electrical hazards, ensuring your EV charging setup remains safe and durable over time.
Battery Tender eCharge 32 AMP vs. Other eCharge Chargers
The Battery Tender eCharge 32 AMP EV Charger stands out because it supports both Level 1 and Level 2 charging. Unlike the other models, which are strictly Level 1 or Level 2, this charger offers flexibility with multiple plug options: 5-15p, 5-20p, and NEMA 14-50R. It can operate on 120V or 240V, allowing users to charge at either 16A or 32A, depending on the power source. This versatility makes it a great choice for users who want a charger that adapts to different electrical setups.
Battery Tender eCharge 32 AMP vs. eCharge 16 AMP
The eCharge 32 AMP offers dual-voltage compatibility (120V & 240V), while the eCharge 16 AMP is limited to 120V. Additionally, the 32 AMP model provides up to twice the charging speed, making it ideal for users who want a faster charge.
Battery Tender eCharge 32 AMP vs. eCharge 40 AMP
While both models support Level 2 charging, the eCharge 40 AMP has a higher output (40A vs. 32A), resulting in even faster charging. However, the 32 AMP model is more adaptable due to its Level 1 + 2 capability, making it suitable for various power setups.
Battery Tender eCharge 32 AMP vs. eCharge 48 AMP
The eCharge 48 AMP offers higher amperage for faster charging speeds, but it requires a dedicated 240V circuit. The 32 AMP model is more versatile, supporting both 120V and 240V, making it a more flexible choice for different charging needs.
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