As electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular, one of the most common questions among EV owners is: “Should I stick with a Level 1 charger or upgrade to a Level 2 charger?”
With so many factors like charging speed, cost, and convenience to consider, the decision isn’t always straightforward. In this blog, we’ll explore the key differences between Level 1 vs Level 2 chargers and help you determine the right option for your home setup.
Level 1 EV Chargers
A Level 1 EV charger is the most basic and common type of charger, typically included with your vehicle at the time of purchase. It plugs directly into a standard 120-volt household outlet and delivers around 1.2 kW of power. While convenient, it’s not exactly known for speed.
With a Level 1 charger, you’ll gain about 4 miles of driving range per hour of charging. This slow rate means it can take anywhere from 11 to 20 hours to fully charge an EV, depending on the battery size. For drivers with short commutes who can leave their car charging overnight, this might be sufficient. But if you rely heavily on your EV or need it ready quickly, a Level 1 charger can feel limiting.
Why a Level 2 EV Charger Might Be the Better Option
A Level 2 EV charger is a significant upgrade in both speed and power. Requiring a 240-volt outlet, similar to those used by large home appliances, it can deliver anywhere from 6.2 to 19.2 kW of power, depending on the model. The result? You can charge your EV up to 8 times faster than with a Level 1 charger—gaining around 32 miles of driving range per hour.
Most EV owners find that with a Level 2 charger, their vehicle can go from empty to full in about 3 to 8 hours. Whether you have a longer commute, multiple EVs in the household, or simply value the flexibility of a quick charge, a Level 2 charger is a game-changer for those who depend on their vehicle.
Key Differences Between Level 1 & Level 2 Chargers
- Charging Speed: Level 1 chargers provide around 4 miles of range per hour, while Level 2 chargers can provide up to 32 miles of range per hour. This makes Level 2 chargers ideal for drivers who need faster turnaround.
- Installation Requirements: While a Level 1 charger can plug into any standard outlet, a Level 2 charger requires a 240-volt outlet and often professional installation. However, the investment in a home EV charger installation can pay off in both time savings and convenience.
- Cost: Level 2 chargers are generally more expensive upfront. However, many utility companies and government programs offer rebates or incentives to offset the cost of both the charger and its installation.
- Practicality: If you’re driving more than 20-30 miles daily, a Level 1 charger might struggle to keep up with your needs. In contrast, a Level 2 charger ensures that you always have enough range, no matter your driving habits.
Benefits of Installing a Home EV Charger
- Convenience: Having a dedicated home EV charger means you can plug in and charge your vehicle whenever it’s convenient for you. No more hunting for public chargers or waiting in line at stations.
- Increased Property Value: With EV ownership on the rise, homes with pre-installed EV charger installations are increasingly attractive to potential buyers.
- Efficiency: With a Level 2 home charger, you can charge faster and avoid costly peak energy times by scheduling charges during off-peak hours.
Ready to Supercharge Your EV Charging Experience?
At Evolta Electric, we specialize in professional EV charger installations and can help you choose the perfect charging solution for your home.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation to find out which type of EV charger would best suit your needs and to learn about available rebates and incentives!
