How to Choose the Right EV Charger for Your Home

May 12, 2025

A woman is plugging an electric car into a wooden charger.

Electric vehicles are more popular than ever—and if you own one or are thinking about buying one, the next step is figuring out how to charge it at home. That’s where an EV home charger comes in.

At Oliver Electric, we often get asked:

“What kind of EV charger should I install at my house?”

It’s a great question—and the right answer depends on a few key things like your car, your electrical panel, and your daily driving habits.

Let’s walk through the basics so you can make a smart, safe choice.

The Two Main Types of EV Chargers

There are two common types of EV chargers used at home:

Level 1 Charger

(Standard Outlet)

Plugs into a regular 120V wall outlet
Adds about 3–5 miles of range per hour
No extra installation needed
Best for occasional drivers or plug-in hybrids

This option works for overnight charging, but it’s very slow—sometimes taking over 24 hours to fully charge a battery.

Level 2 Charger

(240V Installation)

Requires a 240V outlet, like an electric dryer
Adds about 20–30+ miles of range per hour
Great for daily drivers and long commutes
Needs professional installation by a licensed electrician

A Level 2 charger is what most EV owners choose. It’s fast, reliable, and can be installed in your garage, carport, or driveway setup.

Before you pick a charger, make sure your service can handle it. A lot of West Valley homes still have 100 or 125-amp panels. Here's how many amps your house needs for an EV charger and everything else you run.

What to Consider Before Installing

Before picking your charger, here are a few important things to think about:

1.Your Driving Routine

If you drive long distances every day or use your EV as your main car, a Level 2 charger is probably the best fit. You’ll save time and avoid range anxiety.

2.Your Home’s Electrical Panel

A licensed electrician will check if your current panel can handle the extra load. If it’s an older home, you might also need a panel upgrade to safely add a 240V circuit.

At Oliver Electric, we’ll evaluate your system and let you know exactly what’s needed—no guesswork, no surprises.

3.The Location of the Charger

Where will your EV be parked?

We install EV chargers in garages, carports, and even on outdoor walls. We also make sure the wiring is weather-safe, secure, and ready for long-term use.

Can I Install an EV Charger Myself?

In short—no, and here’s why.

EV chargers deal with high voltage and must follow electrical code compliance. Mistakes during installation could damage your vehicle, cause a fire hazard, or void your car’s warranty.

That’s why you should always hire a licensed electrician near me to handle the install. At Oliver Electric, we’ve installed dozens of home EV charging stations safely and quickly. We handle permits, inspections, and everything in between.

Should I Install a Smart Charger?

Many modern chargers are “smart,” which means they can:

Track energy use
Set charging times (like off-peak hours)
Connect to apps for control and notifications
Work with smart home systems

If you’re already using or planning a smart home system, we can integrate your EV charger so it’s part of your home’s connected network.

What If I Need a Panel Upgrade?

It’s not unusual for older homes to need an electrical panel upgrade before a Level 2 charger can be installed. Don’t worry—we specialize in both.

We’ll inspect your current setup, recommend the right size upgrade (usually 200 amps), and make sure everything is done to code. After that, we’ll install your EV charger quickly so you can start charging without delay.

What to Expect from Oliver Electric

When you hire our team for EV charger installation, here’s what you get:

A detailed quote—no hidden fees
Help choosing the right charger for your vehicle
Full electrical inspection and panel assessment
Code-compliant installation with proper permits
Friendly, professional service start to finish

Our goal is to make EV charging easy and reliable so you can get the most out of your vehicle every day.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right EV charger isn’t just about speed—it’s about safety, convenience, and protecting your investment. Whether you’re getting your first electric vehicle or upgrading your setup, we’re here to help.

Contact Oliver Electric today to schedule a consultation or get a quote for EV charger installation. We’ll make sure your home is ready for the future—one charge at a time.

Not sure if you have an electrical emergency, learn more.