Charging Slowly — Living Fully
Is a basic Level 1 charger all you really need for your EV? For many owners, the answer is yes. A recent Reddit discussion showed that plenty of EV drivers get by just fine using a standard 120V outlet at home. Daily commutes under 50 miles? Level 1 charging usually keeps up with ease.
Many shared stories of plugging in overnight and waking up with enough range for another day’s drive. One user even racked up 12,000 miles in a year without upgrading to Level 2.
Hidden Benefits of Level 1 Charging
Beyond convenience, slow charging can actually be healthier for your battery long-term. Level 1 charging generates less heat, which some believe helps preserve battery life. And in many cases, upgrading isn’t necessary unless your daily drive is long or winter conditions demand faster charging to keep the battery warm.
Several users also pointed out how switching their 120V circuit to 240V (Level 2) was possible without a full rewire — just a simple breaker and outlet upgrade, saving money and adding flexibility.
When Level 2 Makes Sense
Of course, Level 2 isn’t useless — it’s just about matching your charging needs to your driving habits. Frequent long trips, heavy winter use, or unpredictable driving schedules often make Level 2 worth it. Some users also loved the peace of mind Level 2 offers — being able to fully recharge overnight no matter the battery level.
Interestingly, many EV owners said they initially planned to install Level 2 right away but ended up delaying — only upgrading after their routines changed or their car’s battery size increased.
The Real Takeaway
Level 1 charging isn’t about compromise — it’s about knowing your lifestyle. If your daily routine fits, charging at 120V overnight can be all you need. The modern EV experience isn’t always about speed — sometimes, simplicity wins.
And maybe, just maybe, for a large number of EV drivers… slow and steady really does win the race.
