Everything You Need to Know About Home Electric Vehicle Charging Systems
How to choose the right home ev charger system is actually fairly easy. Although there are different manufacturers, there are essentially three types of electrical vehicle chargers, and for most homeowners.
Type 2 charging systems are going to provide the most value for the cost. They are fast without being ridiculously expensive.
Type 1 chargers are simply too slow for people who use their electric vehicle every day. They just plug into a regular wall outlet.
Type 3 charging systems are the fastest, but are also the most expensive and are not available to all home owners.
The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) has sparked a growing demand for home charging systems in Salt Lake City and throughout the state of Utah. If you’ve made the switch to driving an electric vehicle, congratulations, you are contributing to a cleaner choice for the environment and doing your part to reduce dependence on burning fossil fuels.
If you are considering making the switch to an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle that requires charging, you are going to want to invest in a home charging system.
This article will simplify the process for you. Whether you’re new to EVs or upgrading your current setup, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from the main types of home charging systems to installation tips and factors to consider when choosing your charger.
Why a Home EV Charger Is Essential
Charging your EV at home is convenient and for most people is necessary. Even if the place you work has chargers, there are probably going to be times when you want/need to charge your electric vehicle at home.
It gives you control over your charging schedule, saves you time, and ensures your car is ready to go whenever you need it.
Before you pick a home charging system, it’s essential to understand what options are available and what factors to consider.
The Three Main Types of EV Charging Systems
Level 1 Charging (120-Volt Outlet)
Level 1 charging is the simplest and most accessible option for homeowners, primarily because it relies on a standard 120-volt household outlet. This means you likely won’t need to purchase additional equipment or arrange for professional installation.
The problem is, Level 1 chargers are really slow. Level 1 chargers will generally add 2 to 5 miles of driving distance for every hour of being plugged in to them.
This means charging an Electric Vehicle with a medium-sized battery could take anywhere from 8 to 20 hours for a full charge. But generally speaking, you can expect it to take 24 hours to reach full charge for most electric vehicles using a Level 1 charging system.
Does this mean you shouldn’t use a Level 1 charger? For most people, yes, It is just too slow. But everything depends on your personal situation. If you do not have a daily commute and you only drive your car to the store and back twice per week, then a Level 1 charger is perfect for you.
But for most people, a Level 2 charger is going to be the best choice.
Pros of Using a Level 1 EV Charging System: Level 1 chargers are the most budget-friendly option, as they often come included with the purchase of your EV.
They also don’t require modifications to your home electrical system, which makes them a no-hassle solution for novices.
Cons to Using a Level 1 EV Charging System: The biggest downside of Level 1 chargers is their slow speed. If you frequently travel long distances or have a busy schedule, you might find yourself frustrated by the time it takes to top up your battery.
Drivers with larger EV battery capacities may find Level 1 chargers insufficient.
While Level 1 charging is a practical option initially, as your EV usage grows, you may find upgrading to a higher-powered charger more efficient and convenient.
Level 2 Charging (240-Volt Outlet)
Level 2 charging is the go-to choice for most EV owners, providing a perfect balance of speed, efficiency, and flexibility.
These chargers rely on a 240-volt power source, similar to what large home appliances like dryers or ovens use.
Installing a Level 2 charger at home does require a dedicated charging unit and professional installation to ensure safety and compatibility with your home’s electrical system.
Level 2 EV chargers are fast. They are going to get you 10 and 60 miles of driving range per hour of charging.
So if you have a daily commute, your car will be fully charged overnight and ready to go the next morning. For most people, this is what you need if your electric vehicle is going to be your daily ride.
Pros: The faster charging speed is a game-changer, allowing many users to top off their battery overnight and enjoy the convenience of a full charge by morning.
Level 2 chargers also come in a variety of models, some of which include smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity, app controls, and timers to optimize charging during off-peak hours and reduce energy costs.
Cons: Level 2 charging does come with a higher upfront cost. Installation typically requires an electrician, and you may need panel upgrades or additional wiring, which adds to the expense.
The chargers themselves usually cost between $500 and $2,000, depending on their features.
For most homeowners, Level 2 charging offers the best mix of speed, affordability, and practicality, making it a worthy investment in your EV lifestyle.
Level 3 (DC) Charging Systems
Level 3 electric vehicles are the fastest charging systems. Level 2 systems take 6 to 8 hours. DC electric vehicle charging systems take twenty to thirty minutes.
DC charging systems for electric vehicles are what you see in parking lots of hotels, businesses, and truck stops. They are next level when it comes to the speed of charging an electric vehicle.
Most DC electric vehicles are found at public charging stations. But if you’ve got the money, and your local zoning allows it, a DC charging station for your home is pretty epic!
Are DC charging systems overkill for you home? Absolutely. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have one. You will definitely see some level 3 DC electric vehicle chargers in Park City, Heber, and upscale neighborhoods around Draper and Levi Utah.
Pros: The unparalleled charging speed is the clear highlight, making DC fast chargers perfect for heavy, long-range drivers or households with multiple EVs.
Cons: DC fast charging comes with a hefty price tag. The chargers themselves are significantly more expensive than Level 2 units, and the required electrical upgrades—such as upgrading your home’s power supply—can push costs even further.
Additionally, not all homes are compatible with the electrical demands of DC fast chargers.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Home EV Charger
Selecting an EV charger isn’t just about picking the fastest option. To make an informed decision, you’ll need to think about compatibility, cost, features, and future needs.
1. Vehicle Compatibility
The first step is ensuring the charger is compatible with your EV. Most chargers use the universal J1772 connector, which works with nearly every EV brand (Tesla vehicles require an adapter).
Some chargers are tailor-made for certain brands, so double-check your car’s requirements before purchasing.
2. Charging Speed and Power Output
The charging speed a unit provides depends on its power output (measured in kilowatts, or kW).
Faster chargers typically cost more, so think about what’s realistic for your needs. A 7.2 kW Level 2 charger is a great mid-range option that can charge a typical EV battery in 6-8 hours.
3. Smart Features
Today’s advanced chargers come with “smart” capabilities, such as Wi-Fi connectivity, app control, and energy management.
These features allow you to track charging sessions, schedule charges during off-peak hours, and monitor energy usage, which can lower electricity bills.
4. Installation Requirements
Before buying a charger, confirm your home’s electrical system can handle it. An electrician may need to upgrade your electrical panel or install a dedicated circuit for the unit.
This is particularly important with high-power Level 2 or DC fast chargers.
5. Future-Proofing
With EV technology evolving, it’s wise to plan for the future. Even if your current EV doesn’t support higher-power charging, you might own one that does in a few years.
Opting for a slightly more robust charger ensures you won’t need to replace it prematurely.
6. Portability
If you’re renting or planning to move soon, a portable Level 2 charger might be worth considering. These units plug into a 240-volt outlet and can be unplugged and relocated as needed.
Tips for Professional Installation
Installing a home EV charger involves more than plugging it in. Proper installation is crucial for safety and performance.
Getting Your Home EV Charger Installed
1. Hire a Licensed Salt Lake City Electrician
In Salt Lake City, always work with a licensed electrician experienced in EV charger installations. They’ll ensure the wiring and panel upgrades, if needed, meet local codes and safety standards. Remember, a handyman cannot perform this type of electrical work in the state of Utah.
2. Assess Your Electrical Panel
A professional should inspect your electrical panel to verify whether it can handle the additional load of an EV charger.
If not, you may need an upgrade, which can increase installation costs.
3. Choose the Right Location
Pick a spot close to where you park, preferably in your garage or carport. Outdoor installations are possible but may require weatherproofing.
Factor in cord length and accessibility when deciding on placement.
4. Future-Proof Your Installation
Even if you’re installing a Level 1 or standard Level 2 charger, consider pre-wiring your home for higher-capacity chargers for future upgrades.
5. Apply for Permits
Some municipalities require permits for EV charger installations. Your electrician will typically handle this but confirm beforehand to avoid delays.
6. Take Advantage of Incentives
Look into government programs or local rebates that may cover part of your installation costs. Some utility companies offer discounts or free installation when you sign up for specific time-of-use energy plans.
Utah Offers Incentives for Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Like a lot of states, Utah offers incentives for switching to an electric vehicle system. These incentives can be applied to offset the cost of installation of a home EV charging system. To learn more, click on the hyperlink below:
Click The Button Below to Learn About Utah EV Charging System Incentives
Summary – How to Choose the Right Home EV Charger System
How to Choose the Right Home EV Charger System – Choosing the right home EV charger system is easy. Most people need to purchase a Level 2 system. Level 2 chargers will charge your car overnight and be ready to go the next morning.
There are Level 1 systems that are all right if you only drive your car every few days, but remember, they are generally going to take 24 hours to charge up your vehicle. The good news is, they are cheap and just plug right into your wall.
Level 3 Chargers – DC Electric vehicle charging systems are next level. They charge your car in twenty to thirty minutes. They are super expensive. But, around Salt Lake City, Park City, and Heber City, you will see them at people’s homes.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Home EV Charger System: Compatibility, cost, smart features, installation requirements, and future needs all play a role in your decision.
Professional Installation: Hiring a licensed electrician is crucial for safety and efficiency, and you can often offset costs through rebates or incentives.
So if you are looking to purchase an electric vehicle and you know you need a charger, don’t sweat it. Most people need a level 2 EV charging system in their home. You’ll need to hire an electrician to install it for you.
Yes, you can get by on a Level 1 charger, but they are slow, so don’t expect to charge your car overnight with a Level 1 – it won’t work. And that is the truth.
And if you can afford it, and you want to go big and get the very best EV Charging system, the DC electric vehicle charging system is for you. It will charge your car in 20 – 30 minutes and they look cool.
About The Authors – Key Lime Electric
Key Lime Electric is a professional electrician company located in Salt Lake City Utah. They are professional electric vehicle charging system installers. They offer EV Charger installation in Salt Lake City, Murray, Millcreek, Sandy, Draper, Park City, Heber City, Lehi Utah, and throughout the Wasatch Front area surrounding Salt Lake City.
To Learn More About EV Charger Installation Please: Visit Our EV Charger Installation Page
