Splitvolt SPS-01-011-30A: The Smart Way to Charge Your EV at Home

The growing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) has created a demand for convenient and affordable home charging solutions. However, the cost of installing a dedicated EV charging circuit can be a significant barrier for many homeowners. Splitvolt offers a clever solution with their innovative Splitter Switch, allowing you to safely share your existing 240V dryer outlet with your Level 2 EV charger, saving you both time and money. This article delves into the features of the Splitvolt SPS-01-011-30A Splitter Switch, explores the technology behind Level 2 charging, and addresses common user concerns.

Overview

The Splitvolt SPS-01-011-30A Splitter Switch is a compact device that plugs into your existing NEMA 10-30 dryer outlet. It provides both a NEMA 10-30 and a NEMA 14-50 outlet, allowing you to connect both your dryer and your Level 2 EV charger. The device intelligently monitors power usage and automatically switches the full 24 amps of power between the two appliances, ensuring that only one is drawing power at any given time. This eliminates the need for costly electrical work and a dedicated circuit for your EV charger.

Design Philosophy - Simplicity, Affordability, and Safety

Splitvolt’s design philosophy focuses on making EV charging accessible and affordable while maintaining the highest safety standards. The Splitter Switch embodies this by:

• Eliminating the need for professional installation: The plug-and-play design allows anyone to set it up in minutes.
• Utilizing existing infrastructure: By sharing the dryer outlet, it avoids the cost of adding a new circuit.
• Providing a safe and reliable solution: The device is cETLus certified and engineered with multiple safety features.

Cost-Effective Installation: Sharing Your Dryer Outlet

Installing a dedicated charging circuit for your EV can be a significant expense, often involving upgrades to your electrical panel and extensive wiring. Splitvolt addresses this challenge by enabling you to share the existing 240V dryer outlet. This can result in substantial savings, making EV ownership more financially viable.

Plug-and-Play Simplicity: No Electrician Required

The Splitvolt Splitter Switch is remarkably user-friendly. Simply plug it into your existing dryer outlet, connect your dryer to the Splitter Switch’s NEMA 10-30 outlet, connect your Level 2 EV charger to the Splitter Switch’s NEMA 14-50 outlet, and you’re ready to charge. This eliminates the need for complex wiring or confusing setup procedures, making it accessible to all users regardless of technical expertise.

Automatic Power Switching: Intelligent and Efficient

The Splitter Switch’s intelligent power monitoring system ensures that only one appliance draws power at a time, preventing circuit overload. When you plug in your EV, the Splitter Switch automatically directs power to the charger. If you start your dryer, it seamlessly switches the power to the dryer and pauses EV charging. This automatic switching capability simplifies the charging process and eliminates the need for manual intervention.

Prioritizing Safety: cETLus Certified and Engineered for Protection

Electrical safety is a critical concern, especially when dealing with high-powered appliances like EV chargers. The Splitvolt Splitter Switch is cETLus listed, meaning it has undergone rigorous testing by Intertek (an independent Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory) to meet stringent North American safety standards. It incorporates multiple safety mechanisms, including:

• Overcurrent protection: Limits the current flowing through the device to prevent overheating and potential fire hazards.
• Overvoltage protection: Safeguards against voltage spikes that could damage your EV charger or dryer.
• Thermal protection: Monitors the device’s internal temperature and shuts it down if it exceeds safe operating limits.

These safety features provide peace of mind and ensure reliable operation.

Real-Time Charging Information: Stay Informed

The Splitvolt Splitter Switch features a full-color display screen that provides real-time feedback on your charging session. You can monitor voltage, current, kilowatt-hours (kWh) used, and the charging status. This allows you to track your energy consumption, estimate charging time, and ensure that your EV is charging efficiently.

Compatibility: Designed for Versatility

The Splitvolt Splitter Switch is designed to work with a wide range of EVs and charging stations using the standard NEMA 14-50 connector for Level 2 charging. This includes most popular EV models from Tesla, Ford, Chevrolet, BMW, Audi, and more. However, it’s crucial to confirm that your EV charger is compatible with the Splitter Switch’s 24 amp maximum output.

Important Note: Some users have reported issues with specific EV charger models not properly communicating with the Splitter Switch. This can sometimes be resolved by adjusting the maximum amperage setting on your EV or charger. Refer to your EV and charger manuals for guidance on adjusting charging settings.

Understanding Level 2 Charging

Level 2 charging utilizes a 240-volt AC power source, similar to what powers your dryer or oven. This higher voltage enables significantly faster charging speeds compared to Level 1 charging, which uses a standard 120-volt household outlet.

The Splitvolt Splitter Switch delivers up to 24 amps of power for your EV charger, which aligns with the National Electrical Code’s recommendation for a 30-amp dryer circuit. This translates to a charging rate of 5.76 kW (240 volts x 24 amps), allowing you to add approximately 10-20 miles of range per hour of charging, depending on your EV’s efficiency.

Conclusion

The Splitvolt SPS-01-011-30A Splitter Switch offers a practical, affordable, and safe way to charge your EV at home. Its plug-and-play design, automatic power switching, and comprehensive safety features make it a user-friendly and reliable solution. By sharing your existing dryer outlet, you can avoid the added cost and complexity of installing a dedicated charging circuit, making EV ownership more accessible. With the Splitvolt Splitter Switch, you can confidently embrace the electric future while enjoying the convenience and cost savings of home charging.