Level 1 vs. Level 2: Debunking EV Charging Myths

Misinformation about Level 1 vs. Level 2 can lead to missed opportunities, over-spending or worse; chargers that go un-used because they don't match how residents actually charge.

Fortunately, Orange is here to debunk some common Level 1 vs 2 chargers myths and explain the key differences between Level 1 & Level 2, and the key benefits of these EV chargers so you can make the most informed decision possible.

Are EV Charging Myths Holding Back Your Multifamily Property?

From myths about limited Level 1 speeds to the assumption of the price of Level 2 chargers, EV charging myths can cloud your decision and prevent you from finding your property's best options. We aim to help you understand the most prevalent myths, so you see through the misconceptions and cheap marketing tactics about EV charging, keeping you informed at every step.

Some myths come from real concerns, others are just outdated assumptions. Either way, they slow down adoption and waste money that could go towards right-sized charging. It’s not enough to simply “debunk” them. You need to understand why these myths exist and when they actually apply. That’s what helps you make the right call for your community.

Common Myths About Level 1 and Level 2 EV Chargers

Myth 1: Level 1 Charging Is Too Slow to Be Practical

Reality: 98% of daily driving is covered with overnight charging. Most residents want to charge overnight. With 10+ hours of dwell time, most EVs can fully recharge overnight, even at Level 1 speeds.

Level 1 offers dependable overnight charging and work with your current electrical capacity. And because they use far less power, you can often install 4-6x more Level 1 chargers for the cost of a few Level 2 stations.

This gives residents consistent access to charging, without having to worry about moving their cars for others, reducing congestion and frustrated residents.

Myth 2: Level 2 Chargers Are Too Expensive

Reality: There are two types of Level 2 charging: EVSEs (full stations with built-in cables) and Level 2 outlets that let residents use their own cables. Since residents tend to take care of their cables, there's no wear-and-tear for your team to manage, and no cords to replace or maintain.

Yes, traditional Level 2 EVSEs can cost up to $2,000 or more per unit, plus installation and recurring fees. However, Orange Level 2 outlets give you the best power to cost ratio, and without the monthly network or software fees most EVSE s require.

Residents plug in using their own cables, saving your property from ongoing maintenance costs while still offering 150+ miles of range overnight.

The key is knowing when to invest in full EVSE stations (shared EV charging spaces or visitor parking) and when to scale affordably with outlets in assigned parking spaces.

Myth 3: Level 2 Chargers Always Require Major Electrical Upgrades

Reality: Upgrades depend on what your current infrastructure can handle. In many cases, Level 2 charging can be as simple as adding a few Level 2 outlets. It’s true that electrical capacity and panel location matter. If your property has limited available load, Level 1 may be the smarter starting point. But installing Level 2 doesn’t automatically mean your panels need an upgrade.

Getting right-sized charging starts with knowing what you already have. Orange can help assess your existing capacity and build out an efficient plan that fits your property.

Understanding Resident Charging Needs‍

Before deciding on charging levels, check in with your residents. How many current EV drivers are there? Send out a quick survey, review results, then get a local electrician to check how much electricity can be pulled before you start installing. That’ll tell you what’s possible now, and what can scale over time.

Most EV drivers in multifamily view EV charging as a must-have amenity, and they will almost always prefer to charge at home versus going out and finding a charger elsewhere.

When Level 1 Chargers Make Sense

Orange Level 1 outlets draw just 2.4kW and deliver 3-5 miles of range per hour, enough for 40 to 60 miles overnight. That’s more than enough for most daily driving, especially in multifamily settings where residents stay parked for 10+ hours. Because of their low power draw, Level 1 outlets are ideal for properties with limited electrical capacity.

Hypothetical scenario:
Let’s say you manage a  property with 8 EV drivers. You’ve got a typical amount of electrical capacity to work with, around 72kW, which gives you some room to start installing chargers. You have two options:

Option A:  Install Two Level 2 EVSEs

Each EVSE draws 6.66kW, so two would use:
2 x  6.66kw each  =  13.32 kW of energy used.  

That leaves  58.68 kW  of remaining capacity to spare,  less than 20% of your panel's capacity, giving you plenty of room for other things too, not just EV charging.

However, you’re offering shared access at that point, only serving a few drivers at a time which could cause frustration among residents.

Option B: Install eight Level 1 Outlets

A simpler solution, installing one outlet in each  assigned parking spot gives residents easy access to EV charging, without the wait times.

Each outlet draws 2.4kW,  so: 8  x 2.4kW =  19.2kW of used power. That leaves  52.8 kW of available energy, that’s more than enough to add chargers later as demand starts to increase.

Now, each EV driver has their own dedicated outlet, no sharing or waiting to charge. It’s not about speed, residents just want to charge overnight from the comfort of their home.

Note: These scenarios are a generalization, it all depends on the size of your properties panel. Reach out to our team of experts for an EV charging plan custom made for your community.

The Role of Level 2 Chargers

Level 2 charging comes in two forms: outlets or EVSEs.

Both are faster than Level 1, but they serve different needs. Level 2 outlets can add around 15 miles of range per hour or up to ~150 miles overnight. They’re a great fit for residents who want to charge their vehicles overnight.

Level 2 EVSEs deliver 20-60 miles of range per hour or up to ~300 miles overnight, depending on amperage and the electric vehicle. These are great for multi-use properties, guest parking, anywhere that sees a short dwell time.

In most multifamily properties, the strongest strategy combines a few well-placed Level 2 outlets with broader access to Level 1 outlets, and if you have energy to spare? 1 to 2 strategically placed Level 2 EVSEs for public access.

Balancing Both Options for Multifamily Properties

Offering both charging levels gives you the flexibility to meet residents needs without misusing your power. Level 1 outlets cover most daily driving and let you install more chargers with the same power capacity. Level 2 outlets support residents with longer commutes or busy schedules. Both use resident-supplied cables, so you avoid cable upkeep and maintenance costs.

Hypothetical scenario:
Let’s say you have limited power and four EV drivers. Instead of installing 4 fast-charging stations, you could deploy two Level 2 outlets and several Level 1 outlets. This way, those with longer commutes get speed when they need it, and everyone gets access to reliable charging at home. That’s what right-sized charging looks like.

Ready To Stop Second Guessing Your EV Strategy?

‍EV charging myths are out there but don’t let them stop you from building the EV strategy your communities deserve. Orange helps cut through the noise with right-sized hardware, affordable pricing, and EV charging software with no software fees. Protect your NOI by choosing charging that doesn't eat into your budget.

Contact us to build the right plan for your property!

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