Level 1 vs Level 2 Charging: Which is Best for Your Home?
Owning an electric vehicle comes with plenty of perks—no gas stations, lower maintenance, and the satisfaction of knowing you’re driving a cleaner ride.
But when it comes to charging at home, things get a little more complicated. One of the first questions most EV owners face is: Should I stick with a Level 1 charger, or invest in a Level 2 charger?
The answer depends on your lifestyle, driving habits, and even your home’s electrical system. Let’s break it down so you can make the best choice for your Colorado home.
What is Level 1 Charging?
A Level 1 charger is the simplest way to power your EV. It plugs right into a standard 120-volt household outlet—the same kind you’d use for your coffee maker or phone charger.
- Charging speed: Around 3–5 miles of range per hour
- Setup: Plug-and-play (no installation required)
- Best for: Light commuters, secondary vehicles, or those who drive fewer than 40 miles per day
The main appeal of Level 1 charging is convenience. No special installation, no added cost, just patience. The downside? If you fully deplete your EV battery, you could be looking at more than 24 hours before it’s back to 100%.
What is Level 2 Charging?
A Level 2 charger steps things up with a 240-volt connection (similar to what your dryer or oven uses). This usually requires a dedicated circuit and professional installation.
- Charging speed: 20–40 miles of range per hour
- Setup: Requires a licensed electrician
- Best for: Daily drivers, road-trippers, or anyone who wants a faster, more reliable charging experience
Level 2 chargers are also compatible with smart features, such as scheduled charging to take advantage of off-peak electricity rates. Many modern EVs—and Colorado homeowners—see Level 2 as the gold standard.
Level 1 vs Level 2 Charging: Side-by-Side
| Feature | Level 1 Charger | Level 2 Charger |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 120V (standard outlet) | 240V (dedicated circuit) |
| Miles of range per hour | 3 to 5 | 20 to 40 |
| Installation | None required | Requires professional electrician |
| Cost | Included with most EVs | $400 to $800+ for unit + install |
| Best for | Low-mileage drivers | Daily commuters & families |
| Full charge time | 20 to 40 hours | 4 to 8 hours |
Which EV Charger is Best for Colorado Homeowners?
If you only drive a handful of miles each day and don’t mind waiting, a Level 1 charger might be enough. But for most homeowners in Colorado—where commutes, mountain drives, and unpredictable weather are the norm—a Level 2 charger makes life much easier.
Think about it this way:
- Level 1 is like filling a bathtub with a trickle from the sink.
- Level 2 is like turning on the firehose.
Most EV drivers who start with Level 1 quickly upgrade once they experience the difference in speed and convenience.
Do I Need to Upgrade My Electrical Panel for Level 2 Charging?
Maybe. Level 2 chargers pull significantly more power, and some older homes in Colorado may not have the electrical capacity to handle the load. In that case, you may need an electrical panel upgrade to safely support your charger.
The good news? At GO EV Colorado, we handle both the installation and any necessary panel upgrades, so you don’t have to juggle multiple contractors.
Colorado EV Rebates and Incentives
Here’s another reason to consider Level 2: rebates. Colorado is one of the most EV-friendly states in the country, offering both state and federal rebates that can save you hundreds on installation. Some local utilities even offer extra incentives for installing smart chargers that reduce grid strain.
FAQs About Level 1 vs Level 2 Charging
Is Level 1 charging bad for my car battery?
Not at all. Level 1 is slow but gentle—it’s actually the least stressful way to charge your EV battery. The only downside is the wait time.
How much does it cost to install a Level 2 charger?
On average in Colorado EV charger cost, expect between $700 and $1,500 depending on the charger, your home’s electrical setup, and whether you need an electrical panel upgrade.
Can I install a Level 2 charger myself?
Nope. Level 2 charging requires a 240-volt connection, and messing with that without training is dangerous. Always hire a licensed electrician (bonus: you’ll also qualify for rebates).
Which cars work with Level 2 chargers?
All modern EVs can use Level 2 charging. Some vehicles may need a J1772 adapter or NACS adapter, but compatibility isn’t a problem.
Is it cheaper to charge with a Level 1 or Level 2 charger?
The electricity cost per kilowatt-hour is the same, whether you’re using Level 1 or Level 2. The difference is time. Level 2 charges faster, so while you’ll pay the same per unit of electricity, you’ll spend less time waiting.
Is Level 1 or Level 2 better?
It depends on your lifestyle. Level 1 works for light driving (think under 40 miles per day). Level 2 is better for most Colorado homeowners who commute, take weekend trips, or simply don’t want to wait 24 hours for a full charge.
Is Level 2 charging bad for EV?
No. Level 2 charging is safe, efficient, and designed for daily use. It won’t damage your battery. The only faster option—DC fast charging—used excessively may shorten battery life slightly, but Level 2 is the sweet spot.
Do I really need a Level 2 charger at home?
Not always, but most EV owners find it’s worth the investment. If you only drive a little each day, Level 1 may be fine. If you commute, have multiple drivers, or just want the convenience of waking up to a fully charged car, Level 2 is a game-changer.
The Bottom Line
When it comes to Level 1 vs Level 2 charging, the right choice depends on how often you drive and how quickly you want to get back on the road.
For most Colorado homeowners, a Level 2 charger is the smart investment—faster, more efficient, and backed by rebates that make it surprisingly affordable.
If you’re ready to make charging at home effortless, our team at GO EV Colorado is here to help. We’re licensed electricians, Tesla-certified installers, and rebate experts.
👉 Schedule your free estimate today and we’ll get you plugged in the right way.
