If you're thinking about buying a Tesla (or a Chevy Bolt, Nissan Leaf, or one of the other options in the growing electric vehicle market). You know that emissions from gasoline powered cars are causing the world to warm. You know that throughout the summer, congress passed climate legislation with tax credits that will make - at least eventually - some electric cars more affordable.

But now there's a more fundamental question that needs to be addressed: What does it take to set up your house for an electric car, and how much does it cost?

And why do we need a level 2 charger ?

Although almost all electric cars come with what are called Level 1 chargers. These chargers plug directly into a standard outlet. But while they require minimal effort and money, they also charge the car's battery at a slow rate. You may be able to add dozens of miles of range by charging at night, but it takes more than a day to fully charge an empty battery. You'll also need to make sure your home's electrical system can handle the extra burden of charging your car outside of doing laundry or using the microwave. 

When you hear about installing EV chargers in your home, these conversations are mostly about Level 2 chargers. Because they are more powerful, consumers can fill their batteries overnight and add dozens of miles of range by charging their cars for an hour. Level 2 chargers require a different type of plug (think of the outlets used in washing machines and dryers) and you'll need to have an electrician install one.

Whether you absolutely want to get to level 2 has a lot to do with how far you drive each day actually. Another consideration is whether you have other opportunities to charge your vehicle.If there are a lot of public chargers near your office or on the street where you live,then the urgency won't be great.

Level 3 chargers are the fastest, but because they require so much power, it's rare to see such chargers installed in private residences.