Electric vehicle adoption is rising quickly, and properties that offer charging are gaining value, visibility, and new revenue opportunities. But many owners still wonder which type of charger makes sense for their building. This guide gives a simple, clear explanation of how AC and DC charging work, what Level 1 and Level 2 chargers really mean, and when DC fast charging becomes the right investment.
Understanding AC Charging
Most EV charging happens through AC power. The electricity coming from the building is AC, and the vehicle’s onboard charger converts it to DC for the battery.
AC charging is cost-effective, easy to install, and ideal for locations where vehicles stay parked for longer periods.
Level 1 Charging (120V Residential Outlets)
Level 1 uses a standard household outlet.
• Slowest charging speed
• Adds roughly 3–5 miles of range per hour
• Best for homes, overnight workplace parking, or low-use scenarios
• Minimal installation cost
Because it’s so slow, Level 1 is rarely used in commercial or multifamily environments.
Level 2 Charging (208–240V Commercial & Residential)
Level 2 is the most common charging level for residential communities, workplaces, hotels, retail centers, and fleet depots.
• Adds 20–50+ miles of range per hour
• More power than Level 1, but still AC
• Affordable installation compared to fast charging
• Supports smart features like access control, usage tracking, and billing
• Ideal for property owners wanting reliable, long-dwell charging
For most properties, Level 2 is the best balance of cost, performance, and practicality.
Understanding DC Fast Charging (DCFC)
DC Fast Chargers bypass the car’s onboard charger and deliver DC electricity directly to the battery. That’s why they charge dramatically faster, but also require more infrastructure.
• 50 kW to 350+ kW power levels
• Adds 100–250+ miles of range in 15–30 minutes
• Requires dedicated electrical service and specialized equipment
• Higher installation cost
• Best for high-traffic commercial sites, fleets, and highway locations
For property owners with fast-turnover drivers, large fleets, or revenue-focused charging operations, DC Fast Charging can be a strong business investment.
Which Option Is Right for Your Property?
Choose Level 1 if:
• You only need basic overnight charging
• Budget is extremely limited
Choose Level 2 if:
• You want the ideal user experience
• Your site has long-dwell parking (apartments, workplaces, hotels, retail)
• You want the lowest operational complexity with smart billing and management tools
• You want the best ROI at the lowest installation cost
Choose DC Fast Charging if:
• Your site demands rapid charging turnaround
• You serve fleets, high-traffic roads, or public charging customers
• You want charging to be a revenue stream
How VoltiE Helps Property Owners
VoltiE delivers AC and DC charging solutions designed for long-term reliability, smart energy management, and seamless user experiences.