Best Electric Car Home Chargers for Kia Soul in 2024

The best electric car home chargers for the Kia Soul in 2024 deliver fast, reliable charging with smart features like app control and scheduling. Whether you’re upgrading from a Level 1 or optimizing for efficiency, these top-rated chargers offer seamless compatibility, compact designs, and installation flexibility to keep your Soul powered up and ready to go.

Key Takeaways

• Choose Level 2 chargers: Faster charging for your Kia Soul, ideal for daily use.
• Check amperage options: 32A or 40A balances speed and home electrical safety.
• Prioritize smart features: Scheduling and app control optimize charging times and costs.
• Verify J1772 compatibility: Ensures seamless connection with all Kia Soul EV models.
• Install professionally: Guarantees safe, code-compliant setup and avoids electrical hazards.
• Look for weatherproofing: Essential for outdoor installations and long-term durability.

The Future of Driving is Here—And It Starts at Home

Remember when charging your car meant pulling into a gas station, fumbling with a nozzle, and watching the numbers climb? For Kia Soul EV owners, those days are fading fast. Now, the real magic happens right in your driveway—or garage—with an electric car home charger for your Kia Soul. Whether you’re a first-time EV owner or upgrading your charging setup, having the right home charger isn’t just convenient—it’s essential.

The Kia Soul EV is one of the most practical, fun-to-drive electric vehicles on the market. With its compact size, peppy acceleration, and up to 243 miles of range (on newer models), it’s perfect for city commutes and weekend getaways. But here’s the catch: to truly enjoy that range, you need to charge smartly. That’s where a reliable electric car home charger for Kia Soul comes in. It’s not just about plugging in—it’s about charging faster, safer, and more efficiently. In this guide, we’ll explore the best options available in 2024, what to look for, and how to get the most out of your home charging setup—no jargon, no fluff, just real talk from someone who’s been there.

Why You Need a Home Charger for Your Kia Soul (And Not Just the Trickle Cord)

If you’ve just picked up your Kia Soul EV, you probably noticed it came with a Level 1 charging cord—the kind that plugs into a standard 120-volt outlet. It’s fine in a pinch, but let’s be honest: it’s painfully slow. On average, it adds about 4 miles of range per hour. That means a full charge from empty could take over 40 hours. Who has time for that?

The Real Cost of Level 1 Charging

Imagine this: you get home at 6 PM, plug in, and hope your car is ready by morning. But if you drove 100 miles that day, you’re only adding 40 miles overnight. That’s cutting it close. And if you forget to plug in? You’re starting the day with a low battery—and stress levels rising. A dedicated electric car home charger for Kia Soul (Level 2) solves this by delivering 240 volts, typically adding 25–30 miles of range per hour. That same 100-mile charge? Done in under 4 hours.

Benefits Beyond Speed

• Convenience: No more hunting for public chargers or waiting in line. Your car is ready when you are.
• Cost savings: Charging at home is usually cheaper than public stations, especially if you take advantage of off-peak electricity rates.
• Vehicle health: Level 2 chargers communicate with your Kia Soul’s battery management system, preventing overcharging and reducing wear.
• Resale value: A home charger installation can boost your home’s appeal to future EV buyers.

One Kia Soul owner I spoke with, Sarah from Portland, said, “I used the included cord for two weeks. Then I installed a Level 2 charger and felt like I’d upgraded to a whole new car. I stopped worrying about range, and my morning routine got so much smoother.”

Key Features to Look for in a Home Charger for Kia Soul

Not all chargers are created equal. When shopping for an electric car home charger for Kia Soul, you’ll want to focus on a few critical features. Let’s break them down—without the tech overload.

Power Output (Amperage and Voltage)

Most home chargers are 240 volts, which is standard for Level 2 charging. But the amperage (amps) determines how fast the charge flows. Common options are 16A, 32A, 40A, and 48A. The Kia Soul EV can accept up to 32A, which translates to about 7.2 kW of power. That’s the sweet spot for most users.

Here’s a quick rule: go with a 32A charger (7.2 kW) unless you have a 200-amp electrical panel and plan to charge multiple EVs. A 40A or 48A charger won’t charge your Soul any faster—it’ll just cost more and require heavier-duty wiring.

Cable Length and Flexibility

Measure your parking spot. Can the cord reach from your garage outlet to the charge port on the driver’s side? Most Kia Soul EVs have the port on the left rear. A 20-foot cable gives you plenty of flexibility, whether you’re parking in a garage, driveway, or on the street. Avoid 15-foot cables unless you’re certain of the distance.

Pro tip: If your car is parked on gravel or uneven ground, look for a cable with good bend radius and weather resistance. Some chargers have coiled cables (like a phone charger) that stay tidy but can be stiff in cold weather.

Smart Features and Connectivity

Modern chargers come with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, letting you monitor charging sessions, set schedules, and even track energy usage via a smartphone app. This is especially helpful if your utility offers time-of-use (TOU) rates—like charging overnight when electricity is 50% cheaper.

For example, the ChargePoint Home Flex lets you set a “charge by 7 AM” schedule. The charger waits until 11 PM to start, saving you money. Other features to look for:

• Energy monitoring (kWh used per session)
• Remote start/stop
• Usage history and cost estimates
• Voice control (Alexa/Google Assistant)

Safety and Certifications

This is non-negotiable. Look for chargers with UL, ETL, or CSA certification. These mean the product has been tested for fire, shock, and overheating risks. Also check for:

• Automatic shutoff: Stops charging if a fault is detected.
• Weatherproofing: IP54 or higher rating for outdoor use.
• Ground fault protection: Prevents electrical hazards.

One thing I learned the hard way: a cheaper charger I bought online lacked UL certification. It overheated during a storm and tripped my breaker. Not worth the risk.

Top 5 Electric Car Home Chargers for Kia Soul in 2024

After testing and researching dozens of models, here are the five best electric car home chargers for Kia Soul this year. Each balances performance, price, and real-world usability.

1. ChargePoint Home Flex (Best Overall)

The ChargePoint Home Flex is a favorite for a reason. It delivers up to 50A (12 kW), but you can dial it down to 32A for your Kia Soul. The 23-foot cable is long enough for most setups, and the app is intuitive.

Pros:

• Excellent app with scheduling, energy tracking, and cost estimates
• Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant
• Weatherproof (IP54) for indoor/outdoor use
• Works with any EV (great if you add another EV later)

Cons:

• Requires Wi-Fi setup (can be tricky in garages)
• Higher price point (~$650)

Sarah from Portland uses this one: “I charge overnight, and the app shows me exactly how much it costs. Last month, I saved $18 compared to public charging.”

2. Grizzl-E Classic (Best Value)

If you want reliability without breaking the bank, the Grizzl-E Classic is a steal at ~$400. It’s a no-frills charger with a rugged, metal housing and a 24-foot cable.

Pros:

• UL-certified and weatherproof (IP67)
• Adjustable amperage (16A/24A/32A/40A)
• Simple LED status lights (no app needed)
• Made in Canada with a 3-year warranty

Cons:

• No smart features (no app or scheduling)
• Heavier than most (12 lbs)

Perfect if you just want to plug in and forget it. One reviewer said, “I’ve had it for two years, through blizzards and heatwaves. Never failed.”

3. Enel X Way JuiceBox 40 (Best Smart Features)

Want a charger that feels like it’s from the future? The JuiceBox 40 has it all: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, voice control, and solar charging integration (if you have panels).

Pros:

• 25-foot cable with good flexibility
• App includes carbon footprint tracking
• Works with solar systems (great for eco-conscious owners)
• UL-certified and IP54 rated

Cons:

• App can be glitchy (common user complaint)
• Expensive (~$600)

Ideal if you’re tech-savvy and want to maximize green energy use.

4. Emporia EV Charger (Best for Energy Management)

Emporia stands out with its energy monitoring. The charger connects to your home’s electrical panel and shows real-time usage—so you can avoid overloading circuits.

Pros:

• Load balancing (prevents breaker trips)
• 20-foot cable with good reach
• App shows cost per session and monthly totals
• UL-certified and IP54

Cons:

• Requires professional installation (more complex setup)
• Only 32A max (but perfect for Kia Soul)

A great choice if you have other high-power appliances (EV, dryer, oven) on the same panel.

5. Tesla Universal Wall Connector (Best for Dual EV Homes)

Yes, you can use a Tesla charger for your Kia Soul! The Universal Wall Connector has a J1772 adapter, so it works with all EVs, including Kia. It’s sleek, powerful, and reliable.

Pros:

• Delivers up to 48A (11.5 kW)
• Weatherproof and UL-certified
• Can charge two EVs simultaneously (with a second cable)
• Integrates with Tesla app (for monitoring)

Cons:

• Expensive (~$700)
• Requires Tesla app for full features (non-Tesla users may find it less intuitive)

Worth it if you plan to own a Tesla in the future or have a second EV.

Installation Tips: What to Know Before You Plug In

Installing a home charger isn’t as simple as plugging in a toaster. Here’s what you need to know to avoid headaches—and keep your home safe.

Electrical Panel Assessment

Most homes have a 100- or 200-amp panel. A 32A charger draws about 26A, so you need a dedicated 40-amp circuit. A licensed electrician should check:

• Available panel space (breaker slots)
• Load capacity (can your panel handle another 26A?)
• Distance from panel to charger (longer runs need thicker wire)

One user, Mark from Denver, skipped this step. His 100-amp panel couldn’t handle the load, and he had to upgrade—costing $1,500 extra.

Hardwired vs. Plug-In (NEMA 14-50)

Most chargers are hardwired (directly connected to the panel), but some offer a NEMA 14-50 plug option. Pros and cons:

• Hardwired: Permanent, cleaner, no plug to worry about. Best for long-term.
• Plug-in: Easier to remove or move. Great for renters. But the plug can overheat if not rated for continuous use.

For a Kia Soul, hardwired is usually better. The charger will be used daily, so reliability matters.

Location and Ventilation

Install the charger:

• Near the car’s charge port (within cable reach)
• On a wall with good airflow (avoid enclosed cabinets)
• At least 18 inches above the ground (to avoid water damage)

If outdoors, ensure the charger is rated for outdoor use (IP54 or higher). A covered porch or garage is ideal.

Permits and Incentives

Many areas require a permit for electrical work. Check with your city or utility. Also, look for rebates! For example:

• Federal tax credit: Up to 30% of installation cost (capped at $1,000)
• Local utility rebates: Some offer $300–$500 off
• State incentives: Varies by location

One couple in California saved $800 with rebates. “We used the money to buy a Level 2 charger for our second EV,” they said.

Data Table: Charger Comparison for Kia Soul (2024)

Charger Model	Max Output	Cable Length	Smart Features	Weatherproof Rating	Price (Approx.)	Best For
ChargePoint Home Flex	50A (12 kW)	23 ft	Wi-Fi, app, scheduling, Alexa	IP54	$650	Tech-savvy users, multi-EV homes
Grizzl-E Classic	40A (9.6 kW)	24 ft	LED lights only	IP67	$400	Budget buyers, outdoor use
Enel X JuiceBox 40	40A (9.6 kW)	25 ft	Wi-Fi, app, solar integration	IP54	$600	Eco-conscious owners, solar users
Emporia EV Charger	32A (7.2 kW)	20 ft	Energy monitoring, load balancing	IP54	$550	Homes with high electrical loads
Tesla Universal Wall Connector	48A (11.5 kW)	24 ft	Tesla app, dual charging	IP54	$700	Future Tesla owners, dual EVs

Final Thoughts: Charging Your Kia Soul the Smart Way

Choosing the right electric car home charger for Kia Soul isn’t just about convenience—it’s about making EV ownership seamless. You’ve invested in a fun, efficient car. Now invest in a charger that matches its potential.

Think about your lifestyle. Do you want to wake up to a full battery every morning? Save money on electricity? Track your energy use? The right charger does all that. And remember: installation matters as much as the charger itself. A pro install ensures safety, reliability, and access to rebates.

As one Kia Soul owner told me, “My charger is the unsung hero of my EV journey. I barely think about charging anymore—and that’s the point.” So go ahead: pick the charger that fits your needs, get it installed, and enjoy the freedom of home charging. Your Kia Soul (and your wallet) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best electric car home charger for Kia Soul in 2024?

The best electric car home charger for the Kia Soul in 2024 balances speed, reliability, and smart features. Top picks include the ChargePoint Home Flex and JuiceBox 40, both offering adjustable amperage, Wi-Fi connectivity, and compatibility with the Soul’s 7.2 kW onboard charger.

Can I install an electric car home charger for Kia Soul myself?

While plug-in Level 2 chargers can be self-installed if you have a compatible 240V outlet, hardwired units require a licensed electrician. For safety and optimal performance, professional installation is recommended for most electric car home chargers.

How long does it take to charge a Kia Soul with a home charger?

Using a Level 2 (240V) electric car home charger, the Kia Soul takes 4-6 hours for a full charge (0-100%). A standard 120V outlet adds 20-30 miles of range per hour, requiring 24+ hours for a complete charge.

Are smart chargers worth it for the Kia Soul EV?

Yes, smart chargers offer valuable features like scheduling off-peak charging, tracking energy usage, and receiving maintenance alerts. These benefits can reduce electricity costs and improve battery longevity for Kia Soul owners.

What amperage charger should I get for my Kia Soul?

The Kia Soul EV supports up to 48A charging, but most home chargers offer 40A (9.6 kW) or 50A (12 kW) for future-proofing. A 40A unit provides ~25 miles of range per hour, ideal for overnight charging.

Do I need a special adapter for my Kia Soul’s home charger?

No adapters are needed if you choose a J1772 connector, which is standard for all Kia Soul EVs. Most home chargers come with this universal plug type, ensuring direct compatibility.