Switching to an electric vehicle (EV) is a smart move—not just for the environment, but for your wallet, too. But if you're relying solely on public charging stations, you're probably not getting the best deal. The real savings kick in when you install your own EV charger at home.
Let's break down why installing a Level 2 charging station at home is one of the smartest financial decisions EV owners can make—and how it sets you up for long-term savings and convenience.
Public Charging vs. Home Charging: What’s the Real Cost?
Public charging stations are handy in a pinch. But they’re not always free—and costs can add up fast. Depending on where you live and charge, it can range from $0.20 to $0.60 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), sometimes more. Some charging networks also charge by the minute, especially for Level 3 fast chargers.
Meanwhile, the average cost of residential electricity in the U.S. is about 16 cents per kWh, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Charging at home is significantly cheaper per mile—and you’re not stuck waiting in line or detouring to find a charging point.
Level 1 vs. Level 2: The Real Speed Difference
Most EVs come with a basic Level 1 charger that plugs into a standard 120V outlet. These are slow. Think 3–5 miles of range per hour of charging. That’s fine if you only drive a few miles a day—but not great if you have a longer commute or forget to plug in overnight.
A Level 2 charger, on the other hand, uses a 240V outlet and can charge up to 10 times faster. That’s enough to fully charge most EVs overnight. The EVIQO Level 2 EV Charger (48 amps) is a great example—fast, efficient, and built to handle a wide range of conditions, even if you don’t have a garage.
What Does It Cost to Install a Home Charging Station?
The cost to install a home EV charger depends on your setup. If you already have a 240V outlet in your garage or driveway, installation might be as simple as plugging it in. No electrician needed. If not, you’ll need to hire one to install the outlet, which typically costs between $300 and $800, depending on your home’s electrical system and layout.
As for the charger itself, Level 2 units range from $400 to $1,000. That might sound steep, but don’t forget—there are federal and state-level incentives that can help lower the upfront cost. Many utility companies also offer rebates just for installing a home charger.
Are There Rebates for Home EV Chargers?
Yes—lots of them. The U.S. federal government offers a tax credit of up to 30% of the cost of your home EV charging equipment and installation, up to a maximum of $1,000 for residential properties. That’s part of the Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit.
States and local utilities often have their own rebate programs. The U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center has a searchable database where you can find incentives available in your ZIP code.
Long-Term Benefits of Home Charging
Installing a Level 2 charger at home isn’t just about saving money—it’s about peace of mind. You get:
- Faster charging so your EV is ready when you are.
- More predictable costs vs. fluctuating public rates.
- Convenient charging every night from your driveway or garage.
- Reduced wear on your battery compared to frequent fast charging.
Even better, the EVIQO Level 2 EV Charger is built tough, with weatherproofing and a rugged design that lets you install it indoors or out. It works reliably in extreme temps, so you don’t need a fancy climate-controlled garage. Just plug in and charge up.
Final Thoughts
Home charging is a game changer. It’s faster, cheaper, and far more convenient than relying on public stations. With incentives and rebates helping offset installation costs, now’s the time to make the switch.
If you’re serious about getting the most out of your EV, installing a Level 2 charger like the EVIQO 48-amp model is the smartest move. It’s a one-time investment that pays off every time you plug in.
