Electrical vehicles provide numerous benefits, including generally lower operating costs and reduced air pollution. But how will you charge your new EV so that you can take full advantage of it?
There are three types of EV chargers, and they’re divided into Levels.
Those using Level 1 chargers can simply plug their car into any 120V outlet and add roughly 3-5 miles of range every hour that it’s plugged in.
Level 2 chargers demand a 240V circuit but are much faster, adding about 20-40 miles of range per hour.
Meanwhile, Level 3 chargers are the fastest, feeding DC straight into your vehicle. In many cases, you can then go from a 10% charge to 80% in half an hour. These are usually only found at public stations.
We’ll break down the differences between these chargers, such as which ones are most and least convenient and the cost differences between them, and help you learn what’s best for you.
What’s an EV Charger?
An EV charger is what gives your car power. Think of how you plug your cellphone into the wall to charge it. This works the same way, just on a much larger scale.
But keep in mind that there are different types of charging connectors – i.e. cords. Common ones include J1772, which cannot be used for Level 3 charging, CCS, which can be utilized for all Levels, Tesla, which only works on its vehicles although adapters are available, and CHAdeMO, which can only be used for Level 3 charging.
Level 1 EV Chargers (Standard 120V)
Level 1 EV chargers are the simplest and will almost always come with the EV.
How Level 1 Charging Works
To use this type of charge, simply plug your EV into a standard household 120V outlet. No installation of anything needed.
Advantages
Its benefits include that low – usually zero – upfront cost and its flexibility in being able to be used anywhere you can find an outlet. Also, if you’re a low-mileage driver, focusing on this could be the perfect solution for you.
Disadvantages
Its slow-charging rate is a significant con for many as it can take more than 40 hours to fully charge an EV. So, if more than nominal driving is common, this won’t suffice.
Also, those with or planning to get multiple EVs should note that most circuits can’t handle two cars being plugged in at once.
Level 2 EV Chargers (240V)
For many people, Level 2 EV chargers are what they need to focus on to meet their needs.
How Level 2 Charging Works
Since Level 2 chargers require a 240V circuit and nearly all standard home outlets are 120V, you’ll need to get this type of power supply installed if it hasn’t already been. However, once that installation happens, you can usually charge around 20-40 miles of range every hour.
Advantages
Advantages include Level 2 chargers being widely compatible and them providing that fast, efficient charge and allowing you to simply plug in your car, go to sleep and wake up to a full charge. Also, you may be eligible for rebates and incentives, which can reduce the installation cost.
Disadvantages
That installation cost and necessary equipment for Level 2 chargers are disadvantages. Also, you may need an electrical panel capacity upgrade in your home to be able to get one installed.
Level 3 EV Chargers (DC Fast Charging)
Level 3 chargers are the fastest, but they’re also not possible in nearly all home environments.
How Level 3 Charging Works
For Level 1 and 2 chargers, your EV will convert AC to DC before then using it. But with Level 3 chargers, the power that’s provided is already DC, much of why they’re exceptionally fast. As a result, you can usually add around 60-100+ miles of range in just 30 minutes or charging.
Advantages
That very fast speed is the biggest advantage for most. Also, Level 3 chargers tend to be commonly available on highway corridors and in various public networks throughout American communities.
Disadvantages
Disadvantages include that Level 3 chargers at public stations usually cost more per kWh, your battery will likely be worn down more quickly with frequent use of them and it’s exceptionally rare for them to be able to be installed at a home as commercial-grade or industrial power is necessary for that.
EV Charger Comparison Table
| Feature | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 120V | 240V | 400V+ DC |
| Miles per Hour | 3–5 | 20–40 | 60–100+ |
| Cost | Low | Moderate | High |
| Best For | Low-mileage drivers | Daily charging at home | Road trips / public use |
Choosing the Right Charger for Your Needs
Which charger is best for you? It depends on your needs.
Consider Your Daily Driving Distance
If you’re usually driving fewer than 30 miles a day, Level 1 might be all that you need. However, if that total surpasses that and gets between there and 100 miles a day, then Level 2 is best.
Meanwhile, if you’re at 100+ miles a day, whether regularly or temporarily, such as for a vacation, public Level 3 stations should be your focus.
Assess Your Home’s Electrical Capacity
Do you have physical and electrical capacity space in your panel for 240V charges? That’s necessary if you want access to Level 2 charging.
In any case, you’ll usually need to do some types of upgrades and take advantage of professional installation.
Think About Future EV Ownership
If you have or are about to buy one EV and are also considering getting a second down the line, securing Level 2 charging capability would then be essential, another reason for you to simply consider getting it now.
Cost of Installing EV Chargers
The installation costs increase as you move up in Levels with Level 1 not costing anything as long as you have the cord for it, Level 2 often costing hundreds of dollars or slightly more than that and Level 3 costs reaching into the multiple tens of thousands of dollars.
Time to Charge With Pompano’s On-Time Electrician
For most homeowners, Level 2 chargers hit the sweet spot of providing quite-fast charges for a reasonable cost. That said, do also keep Level 1 chargers in mind if you have modest needs, and consider publicly available Level 3 ones if your requirements are instead excessive, at least temporarily so.
If you’re considering EV charger installation in Pompano, FL, or nearby areas, Mister Sparky can help. Our electricians will ensure that you don’t put up with any malarky and get you taken care of in no time.