The Everyday Charging Solution
For many EV owners, charging at home with a standard 15-amp outlet—known as Level 1 charging—is all they need. If you typically drive 10–15 miles a day and have the ability to plug in overnight, the slower speed easily covers your daily needs.
Level 1 charging is also the most accessible way to keep an EV powered. It’s convenient, affordable, and in most cases, requires no special installation. For drivers new to EV ownership, it’s a stress-free starting point.
How Level 1 Charging Works
A Level 1 charger plugs into a 120-volt household outlet and provides around 1.4 kW of power. This translates to roughly 3–5 miles of driving range per hour of charging.
Most OEM chargers are carefully designed to operate within safe limits, drawing about 12 amps from a 15A outlet. This follows the 80% rule for continuous loads, a guideline in the electrical code that ensures steady charging for hours at a time without pushing circuits to their maximum.
The result is a system that’s simple but reliable.
Tips for Reliable Charging
Getting the most out of Level 1 charging comes down to a few smart practices:
- Use a dedicated outlet so the car has the circuit to itself.
- Stick with a quality charger, ideally the one supplied with your EV.
- Consider upgrading to a 20A outlet with proper wiring if you want more flexibility.
- For outdoor charging, add a weather-protected outlet cover to shield against rain.
- Track performance with your EV’s mobile app or a plug-in wattmeter for peace of mind.
Why Level 1 Works for Many Drivers
The beauty of Level 1 charging is that it blends seamlessly with daily routines. Simply plug in at night, and by morning the car is ready to go. For commuters and remote workers alike, this method is often all that’s needed.
And since it relies on the power outlets you already have, Level 1 is the most approachable entry point into EV ownership.
Final Thought
Level 1 charging may be the slowest option, but it’s also one of the most effective for everyday use.
Sometimes the simplest solution is exactly the right one.
