September 12, 2018

Level 1 and Level 2 EV Chargers at Home

4 Min. Read

If you’re wondering what is the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 EV chargers, you’ve come to the right place! Level 1 uses 120-volts and Level 2 uses 240-volts. We’ll explain the differences in the article below, and you can also watch the above video for some guidance about upgrading your home charging situation from Level 1 to Level 2.

Differences Between Level 1 and Level 2 EV Chargers

What is a Level 1 EV charger?

A Level 1 EV charger is an electric vehicle charging station that operates on a standard 120-volt household outlet, delivering 1 to 2.4 kW of power. It is the slowest type of EV charger, typically taking 5 to 6 hours to fully charge a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) with a 13-20 kWh battery, or 40 to 50+ hours for a full EV with a 60 kWh battery.

Level 1 chargers are often included with an EV purchase, requiring no special installation, making them a cost-effective and convenient option for home charging, especially for PHEVs or drivers with low daily mileage. However, their slow charging speed makes them less suitable for high-frequency use or larger EV batteries.

Most manufacturers include a Level 1 EV charger with the purchase of a new car.

What is a Level 2 EV charger?

A Level 2 EV charger is an electric vehicle charging station that operates on a 240-volt power supply, delivering faster charging speeds compared to a Level 1 charger, which uses a standard 120-volt household outlet. Level 2 chargers typically provide 3.9 to 19.2 kW of power, allowing most electric vehicles, including plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), to fully charge in 1 to 8 hours, depending on the vehicle’s battery size and the charger’s output.

They are commonly installed at homes, workplaces, or public charging stations and require professional installation, sometimes with electrical upgrades. Level 2 chargers are ideal for efficient, convenient charging, balancing speed and cost for EV owners.

But wait, there’s more!

What is a Level 3 EV charger?

A Level 3 EV charger, also known as a DC fast charger (DCFC), is a high-powered electric vehicle charging station that uses direct current (DC) to deliver rapid charging, typically ranging from 50 to 350 kW. Unlike Level 1 and Level 2 chargers, which use alternating current (AC), Level 3 chargers bypass the vehicle’s onboard charger to directly charge the battery, enabling most EVs to reach 80% charge in 20-40 minutes, depending on the battery size and charger power.

These chargers are primarily found at public charging stations, such as along highways or in commercial areas, and are ideal for long-distance travel or quick top-ups.

However, they are more expensive to use ($0.40-$0.60 per kWh) and may not be compatible with all EVs, particularly some plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Installation requires significant electrical infrastructure, making them less common for home use.

Level 3 EV chargers are also referred to as “DC fast chargers.” These charge EVs quickly, juicing up a vehicle for a range of 100 miles in only a half-hour. Found in commercial buildings, retailers, or highway rest areas, Level 3 chargers are not intended for home use. There are things to be aware of regarding Level 3 chargers:

• Not all EVs can use a Level 3 charger. Knowing your vehicle’s capability is important.
• They are fast when a vehicle’s state-of-charge (SOC) is low. However, after a battery is at least 80% charged, a Level 3 charger slows down. So, topping off a car to be fully charged may make more sense with a Level 2.
• It’s generally recommended to keep your battery level between 20% and 80% for optimal battery life, except for long trips when you may want a full charge.
• You pay for the expediency. A fast charge is more convenient, but also more costly.
• The connectors are not the same as the ones you use with a Level 1.

Looking To Buy A Level 1 or Level 2 EV Charger?

With so many EV charging options available, it can be difficult to determine the right Level 2 charger to purchase for home installation. Auto manufacturers can make recommendations, but turning to a third-party who can independently evaluate your needs, the type of car and your residential situation is invaluable. If you’re looking to buy a Level 1 or Level 2 charging device, visit the Qmerit EV Charger Store to see the most popular options available.

Need A Level 2 EV Charger Installed?

As the largest network of certified EV charger installers in North America, Qmerit is the most trusted EV charger installation partner recommended by automakers, EV charger manufacturers, utilities, businesses, and homeowners alike.

But don’t just take our word for it. Rated #1 in customer satisfaction, Qmerit’s experienced network of certified electricians has installed more than 770,000 EV charging stations in homes and businesses across the U.S. and Canada!

Give us a call at (888) 272-0090 or complete our online EV assessment to find out why we’re North America’s most trusted EV charger installation service provider today!