Home EV chargers: Do you really need one?

Even as public charging networks expand, many new electric vehicle owners continue to install high-powered fast-charging systems in their homes. According to a 2023 J. D.

Power study , 60% of EV owners plugging into a standard wall socket say they will likely upgrade their home charging station to a faster charging device. There are two main options for home EV chargers: Level 1 and Level 2. A Level 1 charger is the simplest option.



Like most other home appliances, it uses a standard 120-volt household outlet to charge your EV. The downside is that it’s a slow process. A Level 1 charger typically provides 3 to 5 miles of range per hour, meaning it can take over 24 hours to fully charge some EVs.

If you only drive short distances daily, Level 1 charging might be enough to meet your needs. A Level 2 charger offers much faster charging. These chargers use a 240-volt outlet, similar to an electric dryer or oven, and can add 25 to 30 miles of range per hour.

With a Level 2 charger, you can fully charge most EVs overnight, which ensures the EV will start each day with a topped-off battery. If you don’t have easy access to public charging stations, it’s probably worth investing in a Level 2 charger. The most popular brands include JuiceBox, ChargePoint, Tesla Wall Connector, Grizzl-E, and Blink.

Prices for these chargers typically range from $400 to $800 for basic home units, with higher-end models or those with smart features costing between $700 and $1,200. A Level 2 home charging station can also benefit households with multiple EVs. With more than one car to charge, relying on public charging stations can be inconvenient.

Plugging two EVs into a single Level 2 charger will slow recharging but can still provide sufficient levels for daily commutes. If additional juice is needed, dual Level 2 EV chargers are available. If there is a 240-volt outlet in the garage, a Level 2 charger is straightforward to install.

Should a new 240-volt circuit be required, turn to a licensed electrician. The electrician will assess the home’s electrical system to determine whether it can accommodate a Level 2 charger or if an upgrade is required, which can run from $1000 to $2500. A licensed electrician can also advise whether permits are needed for a high-voltage outlet installation.

While a federal rebate is available for installing a home charging station, it’s limited to residents in rural areas. San Diego Gas & Electric does not provide an installation rebate for in-home chargers. Instead, it currently offers several pricing plans designed for EV owners to maximize their recharging.

If an EV owner decides not to install a Level 2 home charger, they still have other options. Public charging stations are widely available in populated areas, and many workplaces now offer charging for employees. Supplementing Level 1 home charging with public stations may be sufficient for their needs.

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