The Best Charger for Your EV

Choosing the Correct Charger Level

Choosing a Level 2 electric vehicle (EV) charger offers a fast charging rate, enabling convenient recharging of your electric vehicle. It strikes a balance between speed and cost, making it a popular and practical choice for home and public charging.

Level 2 EV Charger

Level 2 EV Charger (240V)

  • Typical appliance outlet
  • More charging capability without extra cost
Level 1 EV Charger

Level 1 EV Charger (120V)

  • Standard household outlet
  • Very slow charging rate
Level 3 EV Charger

Level 3 EV Charger (480V)

  • Commercial infrastructure size
  • Very rapid charging rate for public fueling centers

Choosing the Correct Charger Size

Charging a bigger car battery with a bigger charger is like using a fire hose to water a small garden – it’s too powerful and unnecessary. Just like a regular garden hose can water both small and large gardens efficiently, a charger with the right amperage can effectively charge any car battery, regardless of its size.

Comparing Charger Sizes

Choose a 40 Amp Level 2 Charger for Everyday Use

Charger Size (Amps) Required Circuit Breaker Rating (Amps) Miles of Range Added (Per Hour) Miles of Range Added (8 Hours)
16 A
20 A
7-15 miles
56-120 miles
24 A
30 A
10-22 miles
80-176 miles
32 A
40 A
15-30 miles
120-240 miles
40 A
50 A
18-38 miles
144-304 miles
48 A
60 A
20-45 miles
160-360 miles
50 A
70 A
23-52 miles
184-416 miles

Next Steps

​Check Panel Capacity

Contact an electrician to ensure your electrical panel can handle the additional space and capacity for a Level 2 EV charger.

​Explore Options

Decide what manufacturer you prefer and ensure the charger connection port is compatible with the EV you are using. The two most common Level 2 connector types are the industry standard 5-pin SAE J1772 connector and the proprietary Tesla connector. The SAE J1772 pin is used by all vehicle manufacturers that sell in the United States.

​Additional Features to Look For

Some EV chargers allow programming to set a start and stop time for charging. This is an ideal feature that allows you to charge your EV during overnight hours, the preferred charging time of the day, where there is a dedicated time to recharge.

​Location

Decide a good spot to install the charger in your home/garage to make sure there is enough space.

​Permits

Obtain all permits before installation and complete an inspection before normal operation.