Chevy Bolt owners, I need advice! Help!

[Dem2theMax]

I just purchased a 2023 Chevy Bolt EV. Need advice on which level 2 charger to get. My electrician is really good on installing them, but has no advice on specific chargers.

I have tried and tried to read up on charging systems on the GM Chevy Bolt online forum. A lot of people posting there are heavy into DIY, and it's hard to get a straight answer out of anyone. So I'm hoping someone here might be able to steer me in the right direction.

I was looking at ChargePoint, because a different electrician had recommended that system. But the more I read up on it, the more invasive it seems. They sure do want a lot of information out of you that they don't need, but they require. Such as a credit card number, even though you're using your system at home. And having to use their app. It's all data mining. So I feel I should steer clear of that brand. Also read one review where ChargePoint insisted that one of their recommended electricians be used, rather than the one a homeowner wanted to hire.

So, any advice or recommendations? I'm all on my own in doing this. This is my first EV, so everything is new and confusing.

[mahina]

1. There are 36k members in r/BoltEV on Reddit

https://www.reddit.com/r/BoltEV/

Searching the term "charger" in that sub there are lots of discussions on this topic. There's a thorough Wiki on the front page. Just in case you don't find out here. Best luck!

[Dem2theMax]

2. Thank you!!

[mahina]

3. oh you bet, cheers

I'd love to know what you learn

[Dem2theMax]

4. I've learned that my brain is full, and I need to throw out some files.

Need to make room for new data!

So far, Wallbox, Emporia and Tesla Universal Wall Connector seem to be most recommended. ChargePoint is mentioned a lot as well, but not always for good reasons.

I may have a problem in that I don't have Wi-Fi yet. Not sure I can get it before the install of the level 2 charger. I am not a tech geek. Quite the opposite. Have to get someone to come in to set up Wi-Fi for me.

Some of the charging system info says that you can get by without Wi-Fi, if your ISP goes down. I live in rural area, and that does happen on a somewhat regular basis. But I'm not sure I can get charger totally set up, (as most are showing that you need to use their apps to set up the system,) if I don't have Wi-Fi.

My head hurts! If anyone reading this has any comments to make that might help me, please feel free.

(I had a brain injury over a year and a half ago. My communication skills aren't what they were before that happened. I tend to choose the wrong words, and don't realize it. Also have a really hard time comprehending new information. So I really am in need of advice. My head really is swimming.)

Please. Begging. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[taxi]

5. Use your cell phones hot spot feature as your wifi for setup.

The charger, for that matter any intelligent device, will accept the connection. Also you can decide when to activate the hotspot - when a hotspot goes out of range it can turn itself off.

[Dem2theMax]

6. My brain was reading your mind.

I'm not kidding, I just came back to edit my post to say that I always use my cell phone as a hotspot. I'm doing so this very minute. I'm sure Verizon hates me with a passion. Too bad!

Thank you. I can relax about Wi-Fi and take care of that after I get the level 2 charger installed.

[taxi]

7. It has become insane with all the connectivity requirements.

Some companies, like LG, will not send a technician for repair unless WiFi is working. A part had physically broken off my ice maker, a plastic cog that fell into the tray. It did no good to tell Customer Service that WiFi wasn't the problem.
Good luck, and don't let the bastards become smug bastards!

[Dem2theMax]

8. Oh, I've had my trials with LG. And Samsung.

I've learned my lesson with them. Will never again buy any appliances from either of those companies.

I'll be spending today online, reading all I can on chargers. I hope I don't have smoke coming out of my ears by the end of the day.