Your Guide to Level 2 EV Chargers
If you are investigating buying an electric vehicle, there is a good chance you have come across the term Level 2 charger. These chargers are, after all, the most common type of EV charger being installed in the United States.
The term “Level 2,” however, isn’t very descriptive. It leaves you with plenty of questions, including the most basic: What is a Level 2 charger? Is it faster or slower than a Level 1? Is there a Level 3?
We will answer all of these questions and more below.
What is a Level 2 Charger?
What classifies an EV charger as a Level 2 charger isn’t brand and it isn’t, at least directly, based on charging speed either. Level 2 chargers are those that operate off of a 208/240 volt input in the United States. Most standard outlets in a home are 120 volts, although many have a certain number of 240 volt outlets for major appliances such as a clothes dryer.
How is a Level 2 Charger Different Than a Level 1 Charger?
Once again, it begins with input. Level 1 chargers run off of a standard 120 volt outlet. They will charge your car. They will just do it very slowly.
Is There a Level 3 Charger?
Yes, there are Level 3 chargers, which are also called DC fast chargers. They are the ones you might see installed at gas stations. With Level 1 and Level 2 chargers, alternating current, or AC, is used and is the converted within the vehicle to direct current, or DC, which charges the battery.
With Level 3 chargers, the charger itself converts the power into DC allowing car to skip that step. This leads to a much faster charge.
Why Not Just Install a Level 3 Charger Then?
Simply put, the benefits don’t justify the costs. Unlike Level 1 chargers, Level 2 chargers are ideal for overnight charging. Level 3 chargers are ideal for stopping off at a gas station during a long trip. They just aren’t practical for home installation.
How Fast Can a Level 2 Charger Charge an Electric Vehicle?
It is impossible to give a precise time because it varies from vehicle to vehicle and charger to charger. In general, however, it takes 4-10 hours to charge an EV from 0 to 80%. Plug it in at night and you are good to go in the morning. That same charging would take two full days with a Level 1 charger.
Why Only 80%?
Charging slows down significantly once you get past 80%, and in many cases it is recommended you stop charging at 80% anyway because it is better for the health of the battery.
Can I DIY Level 2 Charger Installation?
You can, but it isn’t recommended. Depending on amperages, upgrades or changes might be needed to your current panel. Many cities, including Chicago, also require permits and inspections for EV charger installations. If done incorrectly, you will likely have to hire a professional to fix the problems anyway.
Also, improper installation can damage your electrical system and your vehicle.
At Red Star, we are certified with the State of Illinois Commerce Commission as well as Tesla, Clipper Creek, QMerit and Charge Point. We are experts in Level 2 charger installation and can make any changes needed to your electrical system to allow for installation of the charger.
We have a form on our electric vehicle charging page that will allow us to give an accurate quote for installing a charger at your home or business.
