How Long Does It Take to Charge an Electric Car Battery at Home?
The time it takes to charge an electric car (EV) battery at home depends on several factors, including the battery size, the charging equipment used, and the power supply available. Understanding these factors can help you plan your charging schedule more effectively. Below is a detailed breakdown of the charging process and considerations for EV owners.
Charging Levels
Electric vehicles are charged through different levels of charging, each with varying speeds and capabilities:
Level 1 Charging
This method uses a standard 120V outlet and typically provides around 4-5 miles of range per hour. For a larger battery, such as a 60 kWh, charging may take 24 hours or more. This level is best for occasional charging, but it is not practical for daily use due to the slow speed.
Level 2 Charging
Level 2 charging employs a 240V outlet to provide around 25 miles of range per hour. A 60 kWh battery would take approximately 4-8 hours to charge, depending on the charger's amperage, which can vary from 16-40 amps. It's the most common charging method for home use, especially when overnight charging is sufficient.
Battery Size
The larger the battery, the longer it takes to charge. For instance, a 30 kWh battery will charge faster than a 100 kWh battery. This is important to consider when choosing an EV, as the charging time can impact your daily routine and convenience.
State of Charge
The state of charge of the battery impacts charging time. A nearly empty battery takes longer to charge than a partially charged one. This is why regular charging is recommended, especially for long-range vehicles, to avoid letting the battery run too low.
Charger Capacity
The maximum charging rate of the vehicle and the charger being used also play a significant role. Ensuring that your charger is appropriately matched to your vehicle is crucial for efficient charging.
Personal Experience
For most EV owners who charge overnight using a Level 2 charger, it takes about 4-8 hours to fully charge their vehicle. This is ideal for those who have a charging station at home and can plug in before going to bed.
For instance, a Chevrolet Bolt EV, charged using a Level 2 home charger, takes a little more than seven hours to fully charge. I plug in before going to bed and wake up with a full charge. Similarly, another owner with a KONA EV found that charging from 30% to 80% took 5 hours with a 240V, 32 amp charger.
A dedicated 230V socket can deliver up to 35 kW. However, either the car or the charger might set a limit. In household settings, our charger typically limits itself to 3 kW. If you're unsure whether other appliances are sharing the socket, you can lower the limit to 1.5 kW.
With a 110V household socket, commonly used in the USA, charging times need to be doubled. For instance, a 70 kWh battery would take 20 hours to charge using a standard household outlet.
Understanding these factors can help you optimize your charging routine, ensuring that your electric car is always ready for your next adventure, whether it's a short trip or a long journey.