A Complete Guide to Charging Your Electric Car
Powering the Future of Driving
Plug In and Power Up
Driving an electric vehicle (EV) isn’t all that different from driving a gas-powered car—except you’ll need to plug it in occasionally.
Think of it like a very expensive smartphone: you use it for everything—news, social media, texting your friends—and when the battery runs low, you charge it.
Your EV works the same way: keep it charged, and you’re ready for errands, soccer practice, work, dinner runs, or even a trip across state.
How and where you charge depends on your lifestyle and location.
Over time, you’ll develop a routine that works for you—whether that’s charging at home, at your apartment complex, at work, or on the road using public stations.
With a little planning and practice, charging quickly becomes second nature.
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Understanding EV Charger Types
Level 1, Level 2, and DC Fast Charging
Infographic Courtesy of Microsoft CoPilot
There are three main charging levels, each suited for different needs:
Level 1
The simplest option. These chargers plug into a standard 110-volt outlet and provide about 1–5 miles of range per hour. They’re slow, so not ideal for daily use, but great for emergencies or “opportunity charging.”Level 2
The most common solution. These use 240 volts and can be installed at home or found in apartment complexes, workplaces, and public parking garages. They deliver 5–15 miles of range per hour, making them perfect for overnight charging or opportunity charging when parked for a few hours.Level 3 (DC Fast Charging)
The heavy hitters. These high-voltage chargers (440 volts or more) deliver 50–350+ kW, taking your battery from 20% to 80% in about 15–30 minutes. They’re mainly for road trips and are expanding rapidly across the country, making long-distance travel much easier.
Amp’d Advice: Look for Level 2 chargers at public destinations like museums, botanical gardens, zoos, and sports venues. These spots offer a convenient way to add 25 to 50 miles while you enjoy the activities.
Getting Started as a New EV Owner
Image Created by Microsoft CoPilot
One of your first decisions is how you’ll regularly charge.
Most drivers charge at home.
For example, we installed a Level 2 charger, but it took three weeks for the electrician to complete the job.
During that time, I learned to use public chargers.
Here’s what helped:
Download the PlugShare app (free) and explore chargers near you.
In our town, a hotel hosts a ChargePoint Level 3 station. We set up an account and practiced using it.
After a few sessions, charging every 3–4 days became routine, and we felt confident for longer trips.
If you are not able to charge at home, then you will need to find charging where you live or work or rely on public chargers to keep rolling.
Start Small: Sign up for one charging network, use it a few times, then branch out to another charging provider.
ChargePoint is an easy-to-use provider found in many public charging locations.
Confidence Comes with Practice: The more you charge on the go, the more natural it feels—soon your EV becomes your everyday driver, not just a weekend novelty.
Planning for Extended Trips
Stress-Free EV Travel
While I like spontaneity, I don’t gamble with charging.
Before our first 250-mile round trip to St. Louis, I checked PlugShare for stations along I-70 and in the city.
We found an Electrify America station at the St. Charles Walmart and set up an account before the trip.
After a few trips to the city, we were comfortable and could enjoy the drive without obsessing over the battery level.
Six months in, we planned a four-day trip to northwest Arkansas using Electrify America stations along the route.
With experience, we developed a road trip planning method (see this earlier blog post) and now confidently take multi-day trips across the Midwest and beyond.
Tesla Owners Have It Easier
If you drive a Tesla, charging is simpler thanks to Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network.
Just enter your destination in the car’s navigation, and it will guide you to the necessary stops.
Other automakers are improving their navigation tools, but until they’re as reliable, I prefer planning manually—I like being in control.
If you do not drive a Tesla read this article to learn how to use their charging stations.
Every EV trip starts with PlugShare to research destinations and charging options.
Once we’ve chosen a destination, I verify which charging providers are available along the route. Then read the reviews for reliability and tips on the best pedestals, nearby amenities, and even hidden charger locatioins. Cheryl adds a nostalgic twist by marking those stations on a paper atlas, giving us a colorful snapshot of the route.
Blending digital tools with old-school mapping makes planning quick, stress-free, and a little adventurous. Read this article to see how this combo keeps our road trips smooth and fun!
Charging Etiquette
Be a Courteous EV Driver
EV charging stations are shared resources, and how we behave impacts everyone’s experience.
Courteous charging habits not only reduce frustration but also help normalize EV adoption by creating a positive community vibe.
Here’s how to make charging smoother for everyone:
Know your car’s charging speed. If your EV can’t use the fastest charger, consider using a slower one so others can benefit.
Avoid charging to 100%. Charging slows dramatically after 80%, so unplug when you reach a practical level.
Move when done. Many stations charge idle fees after a grace period.
Don’t treat chargers as parking spots. It’s rude and blocks others.
Handle equipment carefully. Keep cables and stations clean and functional.
Help new drivers. If someone looks confused, offer friendly advice—they’ll appreciate it and finish quicker.
Until charging becomes as quick and universal as gas stations, awareness and courtesy go a long way.
Researching what charge provider is available along your route and at your destination is like practicing parallel parking - you are not flustered in public.
Birds Eye Review: Charging Your EV is Not Complicated
Iriquois Point Lighthouse, Upper Peninsula, Michigan
Charging your EV might feel unfamiliar at first, but it quickly becomes second nature with a little planning and practice.
Start by understanding the three charging levels and how they fit into your routine.
Use apps like PlugShare to map out local and travel charging options and take time to learn the process before your first big trip.
The key is confidence—once you know where and how to charge, you’ll enjoy the freedom and efficiency that EVs offer.
Whether you’re commuting, running errands, or planning a cross-country adventure, charging is just another part of the journey.
Stay courteous at stations, keep your car’s capabilities in mind, and embrace the learning curve.
Before long, you’ll wonder why you ever worried about plugging in.
