Calculate your cost
Start with the example below, then replace the wattage, daily runtime, and rate with the numbers for your Level 2 EV charger.
This setup uses about 540 kWh in a 30-day month.
Please enter valid values within the ranges shown.
| Schedule | Hours/day | Cost/month |
|---|---|---|
| Half runtime | 1.25 | $50.84 |
| Page example | 2.5 | $101.68 |
| Longer runtime | 3.75 | $152.52 |
Same 7,200-watt input and 18.83¢/kWh rate; only runtime changes.
Formula for the page example
7.2 kW × 2.5 hr × $0.1883 = $3.39 per day
Convert watts to kilowatts, multiply by the active hours used each day, then multiply by the electricity price in dollars per kWh. Multiply the daily result by 30 for the monthly estimate shown above.
How to read this estimate
A Level 2 home charger draws substantial power only while the car is charging. Daily charging time depends on miles driven and vehicle efficiency, and the wall supplies slightly more energy than the battery receives because of charging losses.
Use this as a baseline until you can check the label or measure the Level 2 EV charger directly. Model, settings, condition, climate, and household routine can all change the result.
What changes the cost?
- 01
Miles driven, vehicle efficiency, and charging losses
- 02
Charger amperage and time spent actively charging
- 03
Flat, time-of-use, or EV-specific utility pricing
Ways to spend less
- Schedule charging for lower-priced off-peak hours where available.
- Use miles driven and vehicle efficiency for a realistic daily estimate.
- If the vehicle supports it, precondition the cabin while it is still plugged in.