The Difference In Level 1 and 2, Chargers Electric Vehicles
As electric vehicles have become more popular, drivers still have concerns when it comes to keeping them charged. EV charging stations are certainly more common than ever before, but they still aren’t as plentiful and convenient as traditional gas stations.
The best solution for most electric vehicle owners is to install a home charger that will charge a vehicle’s battery whenever they’re home. Approximately 80 percent of EV charging is done this way, and although you may need to stop at a fast-charging station if you take your EV on a longer road trip, it’s nice to plug in your vehicle overnight and have it ready to go in the morning.
Simply put, if you own an electric vehicle or are planning to buy one, it just makes sense to have an EV charging station in your home. All electric vehicles come with a cable that allows for Level 1 charging, but we at Birmingham Mister Sparky can install a Level 2 charging station for faster charging. Let’s take a look at the difference between these charging options.
Level 1 Chargers
A Level 1 EV charger is a nozzle cord that plugs directly into a standard 120V electrical outlet. Level 1 charging is similar to charging a cell phone or laptop and requires no additional installation. As long as you have a free outlet, you can plug in your EV and let it charge.
As convenient and affordable as Level 1 charging is, it’s also very slow. It can take 24 hours or longer to fully charge an EV this way, making it impractical if you regularly drive several miles on a daily basis.
Level 2 Chargers
A Level 2 charger uses a 240V electrical outlet to charge an electric vehicle. This increased energy output allows a Level 2 charger to fully charge a vehicle in four to 10 hours. Many Level 2 chargers are also equipped with software that can adjust power levels so that you only use as much electricity as you need to fully charge your vehicle.
A Level 2 charging station is probably the most convenient option if you plan to use your EV regularly. For example, if you regularly commute to work every day, you simply need to plug your vehicle into your charger when you get home. By the time you need to leave again the next day, you’ll have a fully-charged vehicle ready to go. The one downside of this type of charging station is that it is a more expensive investment. Not only does it require professional installation, but you may also need to upgrade your electrical panel if it’s outdated. Still, it may be worth the investment in the long run. Charging an EV at home will still save you time and money that you would otherwise spend at fast-charging stations across the country. You will also have a home charging station that you can always use, while not every fast-charging station may be compatible with your vehicle.
Call Birmingham Mister Sparky for Assistance
Whether you’ve recently purchased an electric vehicle or you’re in the market for one, we at Birmingham Mister Sparky can install a Level 2 charging station that suits your needs and lifestyle. Our team of licensed, experienced electricians will work efficiently to have your charger installed quickly and safely, and we will include any electrical upgrades necessary to have it functioning properly and up to code.
Making the switch to an electric vehicle is an exciting step toward a more sustainable future, but it requires the right charging infrastructure at home. A Level 2 charging station can fully charge most EVs in just a few hours, compared to the 20+ hours it might take with a standard outlet. Our electricians will assess your home’s electrical capacity, recommend the best location for your charging station, and ensure your electrical panel can handle the additional load. If upgrades are needed, we’ll walk you through the process and provide transparent pricing before any work begins.
When it comes to installing an EV charging station in your home, don’t put up with any malarky. Call Mister Sparky today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward convenient, reliable home charging for your electric vehicle.
