Level 1 vs. Level 2 Electric Vehicle Chargers: What’s The Difference?
If you currently own an electric vehicle or are considering purchasing one, one of the most important factors to consider is how you’ll primarily charge your vehicle. There are three different types, or levels, of electric vehicle (EV) chargers: Level One, Level Two, and Level Three. While Level Three chargers, also known as DC fast chargers, require a 480-volt electrical source and are almost exclusively available in public settings due to their high cost, Level One and Level Two chargers are both viable options for charging your electric vehicle from the comfort of your home. In this article, we’ll discuss the differences between Level One and Level Two EV chargers and talk about why installing a Level Two EV charger at your home could be a great investment for you! For a free estimate on a Level Two EV charger installation at your home in Southeastern Massachusetts, please fill out the “Book Now” form on our website and select “Get a Quote”!
What is a Level One EV Charger?
Level One EV chargers typically come with the electric vehicle at the time of purchase. Level One chargers plug into standard (120 V AC) outlets and typically charge at a rate of 2 – 5 miles of driving range per hour of charging, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. Using a Level One EV charger, it can take 40–50 hours to charge an electric vehicle from empty to 80%, making these chargers an unreliable option for regular use and overnight charging.
What is a Level Two EV Charger?
Level Two EV chargers do not typically come with electric vehicles at the time of purchase and need to be purchased separately. These chargers plug into a 240 V AC outlet that do not come standard in the garages of most homes, and therefore need to be installed by an electrician. Level Two EV chargers typically charge at a rate of 10 – 20 miles of driving range per hour of charging and take between 4 – 10 hours to charge an electric vehicle from empty to 80%, according to the U.S. DOT. For this reason, Level Two EV chargers are an excellent option for EV owners who want to charge their vehicles efficiently and on a regular basis from the comfort of their homes. While there is a cost associated with the wiring or panel upgrade needed to install a 240-volt outlet for a Level Two charger, there are often rebates available to help offset this cost. For instance, here in Massachusetts, Eversource offers up to $1,400 in rebates to offset the cost of 240-volt outlet installation!
Contact RCA Electric & Generators!
If you have any questions about installing a Level Two electric vehicle (EV) charger or would like to get a free quote on an EV charger installation at your home in Southeastern Massachusetts or Cape Cod, please contact RCA Electric & Generators today! Give us a call at (508) 428-0449 or fill out the contact form on our website, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible! For a free estimate, please click here to fill out the “Book Now” form on our website and select “Get a Quote”!