You can charge most electric vehicles with a standard wall outlet. But, depending on your car model and lifestyle, that will decide what type of charging you will need. There are two types of residential EV chargers: Level 1 and Level 2.

Level 1

Level 1 charging can be achieved with no installation required, simply using a standard wall outlet in your home. An outlet would just need to be in reach of where the car will be parked. Every EV will come with a Level 1 charger that you can plug into a standard outlet. This type of charger is best for overnight charging and will allow for up to 50 miles of driving the next day. So if you drive less than 50 miles a day, this would be a good option with no additional maintenance needed.

Level 2

A Level 2 charger will need to be purchased and installed by a licensed electrician, unless you have a new home that has one already installed. This charger will need a 240-volt outlet, think the same outlet as your dryer requires. These chargers will charge your EV more than a Level 1 could and quicker. So if you drive more than 50 miles a day, you will need this level of charging. Some EV’s with bigger batteries also require Level 2 charging. Some new homes come equip with Level 2 chargers, but for most older homes, you will need to consult with a licensed electrician to determine if your home has enough power available for a Level 2 charger. An electrician can update your panel if your current panel cant meet the power needs.