Electric Car Charging at Home- Everything You Need to Know
- T&C Appliance/HVAC Repair
- Mar 22, 2022
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 8
Electric Car Charging at Home- Everything You Need to Know
Electric Car Charging at Home
One of the biggest perks of owning an electric vehicle (EV) is skipping trips to the gas station. Instead, you can recharge your car right in your driveway or garage. Here’s a complete guide to charging your electric car at home—what you need, how it works, and what to consider when choosing a home EV charger.
Types of Home EV Chargers
There are two main types of home EV charging stations: Level 1 and Level 2. The key difference between them is voltage:
Level 1 Chargers: Use a standard 120-volt household outlet.
Level 2 Chargers: Require a 240-volt outlet, similar to those used for large appliances like dryers.
Here’s how they compare:
1. Charging Speed
Level 1: Adds about 4–5 miles of range per hour. Great for plug-in hybrids or short daily commutes.
Level 2: Delivers up to 15–25 miles of range per hour. On a 30-amp circuit, you can add around 180 miles overnight. This is the go-to for full EV owners.
2. Cost
Level 1: Typically no installation costs—just plug it in.
Level 2: Costs vary depending on installation complexity, but the convenience is often worth it.
3. Installation
Level 1: Plug-and-play with a standard outlet.
Level 2: Requires professional installation, potentially an upgraded electrical panel.
4. Portability
Level 1 chargers are more portable and often come with the vehicle.
Level 2 chargers can also be portable but are often wall-mounted for convenience.
Most Level 2 chargers are compatible with all major EV brands. Tesla owners, however, will need an adapter to use non-Tesla chargers.
4 Common Questions About Charging an EV at Home
1. How Long Does It Take to Charge an EV?
It depends on the charger type, your battery’s capacity, and how depleted it is. As a general guide:
Level 1: 4–5 miles of range per hour.
Level 2: 15–25 miles per hour.
2. Can I Use a Regular Outlet?
Yes, but make sure you’re using a charger designed for 120-volt outlets. This will prevent overheating and ensure safe charging.
3. Do I Need a Dedicated Charging Station?
It’s highly recommended, especially if you drive long distances daily. A dedicated Level 2 charger offers faster charging and better efficiency. However, if your daily driving is minimal, a Level 1 charger may be enough.
4. How Do I Maintain My Home EV Charger?
Home chargers are low-maintenance if installed correctly. Many smart chargers come with Wi-Fi capability, allowing for remote diagnostics and alerts when maintenance is needed. Components can be replaced individually if they wear out.
Need Electrical Help?
Keeping your home’s electrical systems in good condition is essential—especially if you’re adding an EV charger.
If you experience any electrical issues or need professional help installing a charging station, contact:
T&C Appliance/HVAC Repair📞 336-350-7004Serving Burlington & Durham areas
An expert technician will be dispatched to provide fast, reliable assistance.
Electrical repairs and maintenance are important to keep your home in working order.
When a covered electrical issue arises, you can call T&C Appliance/HVAC Repair at 336-350-7004 and an expert Technician will be dispatched to your home to provide assistance.
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