When Should You Use AC EV Charging?

As electric vehicles (EVs) become more mainstream, understanding the different methods of charging is essential for drivers, homeowners, business owners, and municipalities. One of the most commonly used charging types is AC EV charging, short for Alternating Current Electric Vehicle Charging. Whether you’re considering installing an EV charger at home or evaluating public charging infrastructure, knowing when to use AC charging—and why—can help you make informed decisions, save money, and maximize the efficiency and longevity of your EV.

This article explores what AC EV charging is, how it works, its benefits and limitations, and when it is the ideal choice. By the end, you’ll have a thorough understanding of AC EV charging and the role it plays in the broader EV ecosystem.

AC (Alternating Current) is the standard form of electricity delivered by power stations through the electrical grid to homes, businesses, and charging stations. It is the type of electricity that powers most of the devices and appliances in our daily lives.

When it comes to electric vehicles, however, batteries can only store Direct Current (DC) electricity. Therefore, AC power needs to be converted to DC before it can be stored in an EV’s battery. This conversion happens inside the EV itself—a key component called the onboard charger handles this task.

In AC EV charging, the charging station delivers AC power to the vehicle. The EV's onboard charger then converts this power into DC so it can be stored in the battery. This conversion step makes the onboard charger a critical factor in determining how quickly an EV can charge from an AC source.

Let’s break it down:

Connection: You plug your electric car into an AC charging station using the appropriate connector, such as a Type 1 or Type 2 plug.

Power Flow: The charging station supplies AC power to the EV.

Onboard Conversion: The EV’s onboard charger converts AC into DC.

Battery Charging: The converted DC electricity is sent to the vehicle’s battery for storage.

This process may sound straightforward, but the charging speed is heavily dependent on the capability of the onboard charger, not the charging station itself. For instance, even if you plug into a 22 kW AC charger, your car will only charge at 7 kW if that’s the limit of your onboard charger.

Onboard charger capacities typically range between 3.7 kW and 22 kW, depending on the make and model of the EV. This means AC charging can take anywhere from a few hours to overnight for a full charge.

To understand where AC charging fits into the EV charging landscape, it helps to contrast it with DC fast charging.

Power is delivered in alternating current.

Conversion to DC happens inside the vehicle.

Typically slower (up to 22 kW).

Ideal for long-duration parking (home, work, shopping).

Power is delivered in direct current.

Conversion happens in the charger, not the vehicle.

Much faster (50 kW to 350 kW).

Suitable for quick top-ups on long trips.

The difference lies in both speed and complexity. DC fast chargers are larger, more expensive, and require more infrastructure, which is why they are usually found along highways and in high-traffic areas. AC chargers are smaller, simpler, and better suited for everyday use.

AC EV chargers are more affordable to install compared to DC chargers. Most homes already have the infrastructure needed to support Level 1 or Level 2 AC chargers, which makes setup less expensive and more accessible.

AC charging stations are the most commonly installed chargers. They are found in residential garages, workplace parking lots, shopping centers, hotels, and municipal buildings. The widespread availability of AC charging helps eliminate range anxiety for many EV owners.

Slower charging may sound like a disadvantage, but it's actually beneficial for your EV’s battery health. Fast charging generates more heat and puts more strain on the battery. AC charging is more gradual, helping to extend the overall life of your battery.

AC charging is perfect for overnight use. Most EV owners do over 80% of their charging at home, and slow, steady charging fits naturally into a nightly routine.

AC chargers can be connected to home solar systems, allowing EV owners to charge their vehicles using clean, renewable energy. This reduces both electricity costs and environmental impact.

Choosing the right charging method depends on your daily routine, the locations where you park, and how urgently you need to replenish your battery. Here are the best scenarios to use AC charging:

Home is the most convenient and cost-effective place for AC EV charging. If you have access to a garage or dedicated parking space, installing a Level 2 AC charger can provide full overnight charging. This setup ensures your vehicle is ready each morning with minimal effort and no waiting.

Many companies are installing AC chargers in employee parking lots. If your workplace offers this amenity, it’s a perfect opportunity to top off your battery during an 8-hour workday. This is especially useful for those with long commutes.

Supermarkets, shopping malls, gyms, libraries, and restaurants are increasingly adding AC charging stations. These allow you to charge your EV while going about your day. Even short charging sessions can add meaningful range, and they’re often offered for free or at low cost.

AC charging makes the most sense when your driving patterns are predictable and you return to the same location (home or work) each day. Regular, short-distance driving doesn’t require the fast speeds of DC charging and benefits more from the long-term battery health associated with AC charging.

Apartment complexes and hotels with parking facilities are starting to install AC chargers to serve EV-owning residents and guests. These locations are ideal for overnight or extended-duration charging, where speed is less of a concern.

The speed of AC charging depends on two main factors:

Onboard Charger Capacity: Determines how much AC power your EV can convert.

Charger Power Output: The kilowatt (kW) rating of the charger, typically between 3.7 kW and 22 kW.

Here are typical charge times for a 60 kWh battery:

These estimates vary depending on weather, battery size, and vehicle efficiency.

In most cases, yes. The majority of EV owners drive less than 50 miles per day. Given that an AC charger can easily add over 25 miles of range per hour, even a few hours of charging at night or while at work is more than sufficient for daily use.

For long road trips or in emergency situations, DC fast charging provides a quick solution. But for the other 90% of the time, AC charging is more economical, accessible, and convenient.

If you’re thinking about installing an AC charger at home or work, consider the following:

Power Supply: Ensure your electrical panel can support the additional load.

Charger Type: Choose between Level 1 (standard outlet) or Level 2 (dedicated EVSE).

Smart Features: Look for Wi-Fi-enabled chargers that allow you to monitor charging, schedule off-peak use, and track electricity costs.

Connector Compatibility: Make sure the charger is compatible with your vehicle’s plug type (Type 1 or Type 2).

Permits and Codes: Some jurisdictions require inspection and permitting. Work with a licensed electrician familiar with EVSE installations.

AC EV charging is the backbone of the EV revolution. It’s affordable, practical, and reliable—perfect for daily use at home, work, and around town. While DC fast chargers are essential for long-distance travel and fleet operations, they are not necessary for every scenario.

By understanding how AC charging works and when to use it, you can enjoy a seamless and cost-effective EV ownership experience. Whether you're planning a home installation or simply looking to charge while shopping, AC charging delivers the convenience and sustainability EV drivers need in their everyday lives.