EV charging basics have gotten complicated with all the terminology and equipment options flying around. As someone who’s helped hundreds of new EV owners understand their charging options, I learned everything there is to know about how this all works. Today, I’ll share it all with you.
The Three Charging Levels Explained
Probably should have led with this section, honestly — understanding charging levels prevents a lot of confusion:
Level 1 Charging
Standard 120V outlet, about 4-5 miles of range per hour. Slow, but it’s what comes with your car and requires no installation. Works for short daily commutes if you can charge overnight.
Level 2 Charging
240V circuit, about 25-40 miles per hour. That’s what makes Level 2 endearing to us daily drivers — overnight charging handles typical driving easily. This is what most homeowners should install.
DC Fast Charging
High-powered commercial stations, 60-100+ miles in 20-30 minutes. Use these for road trips and emergencies, not daily charging. They cost more per kWh and faster charging degrades batteries slightly more over time.
Finding Charging Stations
Apps like PlugShare, ChargePoint, and A Better Route Planner show nearby charging options. Most display availability, pricing, and charger type. Essential for road trips, less important once you have home charging established.
Home Charging Is the Goal
For most EV owners, home charging provides 90%+ of their charging needs. Plug in when you get home, wake up to a full charge. The convenience eliminates range anxiety for daily driving.
