With electric vehicles (EVs) becoming more popular across Newport News and Hampton Roads, more homeowners are asking: How fast can I charge my EV at home—and which charger is best? At Morlite Electric, we specialize in EV charger installation and electrical upgrades, and we’re here to help you understand EV Charger Speeds.
This guide covers:
- EV charging levels (Level 1, Level 2, Level 3)
- Level 2 charging speeds by amperage
- Hardwired vs. plug-in EV chargers
- When you might need a panel upgrade
Let’s dive into the details so you can make the best choice for your home EV charging setup.
Level 1 EV Charging: The Slow and Steady Option
Level 1 charging uses a standard 120-volt outlet—the same kind you’d use for a toaster. It’s the slowest method of EV Charger Speeds.
- Charging speed: 3–5 miles of range per hour
- Power source: Standard wall outlet
- Pros: No installation required
- Cons: Very slow; not suitable for most EV owners
Best for: Plug-in hybrids or short-range EVs with minimal daily driving needs.
Level 2 EV Charging: Faster, Smarter Home Charging
Level 2 EV chargers operate on a 240-volt circuit and are ideal for residential use. Charging speed depends on the amperage of the charger—and whether your EV can accept that rate.
Level 2 Charger Speeds by Amperage
| Amperage | Charging Speed (Miles/Hour) | Power Output (kW) |
|---|---|---|
| 16A | ~11–12 miles/hour | ~3.8 kW |
| 24A | ~17–18 miles/hour | ~5.8 kW |
| 32A | ~22–25 miles/hour | ~7.7 kW |
| 40A | ~28–30 miles/hour | ~9.6 kW |
| 48A | ~34–36 miles/hour | ~11.5 kW |
| 56A | ~40–42 miles/hour | ~13.4 kW |
| 64A | ~45–48 miles/hour | ~15.4 kW |
✅ Pro Tip: Many popular home EV chargers are rated between 32A and 48A. However, not all EVs can accept higher amperages, so it’s smart to match your charger to your vehicle’s capabilities.
Best for: Most EV owners who want fast, convenient overnight charging at home.
Level 3 Charging: DC Fast Charging for Public Use
Level 3 chargers, also called DC Fast Chargers, are only found at public charging stations due to their high voltage requirements.
- Charging speed: 150–1,000+ miles of range per hour
- Power source: Industrial/commercial infrastructure
- Best for: Long road trips and commercial fleets
- Not for home use
While convenient, Level 3 EV chargers cannot be installed at home due to the massive electrical load they require.
Hardwired vs. Plug-In EV Chargers: Which Is Better?
When installing a Level 2 EV charger, homeowners must choose between hardwired or plug-in (NEMA 14-50/6-50) options. Here’s how they compare:
Hardwired EV Chargers
- Pros: Permanent setup, cleaner look, weatherproof, required for 48A+ chargers
- Cons: Less flexibility, professional installation required
Plug-In EV Chargers
- Pros: Easier to replace or relocate, often lower upfront cost
- Cons: Typically limited to 40 amps or less; must use a properly installed 240V outlet
If you’re unsure which to choose, the team at Morlite Electric can help you decide based on your charger, home layout, and future plans.
Will You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade?
Many older homes in Newport News and Hampton Roads still have 100-amp electrical service. If you’re installing a high-amperage charger—especially 40A and above—you might need a panel upgrade.
You may need an upgrade if:
- Your panel is already near capacity
- You have other high-demand appliances (HVAC, hot tubs, etc.)
- You want to future-proof your home for more EVs or solar
Our licensed electricians will perform a load calculation to ensure your panel can safely support your charger. If needed, we can upgrade your panel to 200 amps or higher.
Additional Features to Consider
When shopping for a home EV charger, look for options that offer:
- Smart charging: Schedule charging times to save on electricity costs
- Wi-Fi connectivity: Track usage and set preferences through an app
- Outdoor rating: Make sure the charger is weatherproof if mounted outside
Serving Newport News with Professional EV Charger Installation
Whether you drive a Tesla, Ford Lightning, Livewire Motorcycle, or another EV, Morlite Electric is here to help you get the most out of your home charging experience. We provide:
- Expert recommendations on EV charger brands and sizes
- Professional installation of hardwired or plug-in EV chargers
- Electrical panel upgrades and load assessments
- Clean, code-compliant work from licensed electricians
Get an EV Charger Quote Today
If you’re ready to amp up your EV charger speeds at your Newport News home, Schedule a visit from Morlite Electric. We’ll help you charge smarter and faster—safely and professionally.
📞 Call us at 757-814-1979
📧 Or schedule online here
