EV charging Level 1, 12 A: how much battery you need1
EV charging Level 1, 12 A (120 V) draws about 1440 W (1440 W range), runs 100% of the time and uses 11520 Wh per day. Start-up surge: 1440 W.
Computed: 120 V × 12 A = 1,440 W. The cord that came with the car; the only EV charge a portable station can supply.
Battery needed
| Hours | Wh | Battery (Wh) | Inverter (W) |
|---|---|---|---|
| For 8 hours | 3840 | 5819 | 1585 / 1440 |
| For 24 hours | 11520 | 17455 | 1585 / 1440 |
| For 72 hours | 34560 | 52364 | 1585 / 1440 |
Open in calculator with this appliance →
Stations that fit (24 h)
Shop links are affiliate links: if you buy, we earn a small commission at no cost to you. Picks are based on your numbers, not on commission.
FAQ
How many watts does a EV charging Level 1, 12 A (120 V) use?
Typically 1440 W while running, with a range of 1440 W depending on model and age. Start-up surge can reach 1440 W.
How long will a 1000 Wh power station run a EV charging Level 1, 12 A (120 V)?
About 0.5 hours on the clock, allowing for the 100% duty cycle, inverter losses and a 20% reserve.
What size power station do I need for a EV charging Level 1, 12 A (120 V) overnight (8 h)?
About 5819 Wh of battery and an inverter rated at least 1585 W continuous with 1440 W surge.
Can I run a EV charging Level 1, 12 A (120 V) on solar during an outage?
You need roughly 7680 W of panels in winter to replace a day's use (11520 Wh), charging through a station with a big enough MPPT input.
Other sizes
Other appliances
1 Approximate values: estimated from motor or heater power and typical figures published online, not from a manufacturer chart. Check your appliance label.
Inverter efficiency 88%, usable depth of discharge 90%, reserve 20%. Full method: How we calculate.