Benefits of Level 2 Charging
Itโs hard to drive a block in California without seeing a home with an electric vehicle (EV) parked in the driveway, and many of them have a charger station to match. Level 2 EV charging is the ideal intersection of fast charging and cost, keeping your vehicle on the road all day without range anxiety. Learn about the charging speeds of level 1, level 2, and level 3 and the benefits of level 2 charging.
What is Level 2 EV Charging?
Like any chargeable devices or electronics, EVs require access to a compatible charger to keep the battery full. EV chargers fall into three categories:
- Level 1 charging: Using a standard 120-volt outlet and delivering about 1.2 to 2.4 kilowatts of power, level 1 charging offers approximately 2 to 4 miles of range per hour of charging. This is an affordable option thatโs usually included with the purchase of a new EV and doesn’t require special installation, hardware, or software.
- Level 2 charging: Depending on the model, level 2 chargers deliver between 3 and 19.2 kilowatts and plug into a 240-volt outlet, similar to large appliances. This translates to about 12 to 32 miles of driving range per hour for various EV models.
- Level 3 charging: Mainly known as DC fast-chargers, level 3 chargers are designed for commercial use and can handle high voltage loads, between 400 and 800 volts. DC fast-chargers can add up to 250 miles of driving range in just 30 minutes.
Faster Charging Speeds: Time is of the Essence
In general, level 1 chargers take 40 to 50 hours to charge an EV to 80%, compared to the 4 to 10 hours of a level 2 charger โ in some cases, that makes level 2 charging 10 times as powerful as level 1.
Practical and relatively affordable, level 2 charging represents the middle ground of charging speed and cost. These charging systems generally require a dedicated circuit and hardwired connection or specialized outlet. You can rely on your vehicleโs charge for a regular day of driving, about 21.3 miles for the average Southern California resident โ if your EV has a full range of 300 miles, a single 8-hour level 2 charge can provide weeks of driving.
Level 1 chargers may work for a driver with easy access to a public charging station or who drives infrequently, but most drivers need more reliable charging. If you rely more on your vehicle, level 1 charging may leave you hanging โ for example, if your EV only adds 2 or 4 hours of charging per hour, youโll have to budget for a steady charge overnight just to make a 30 to 40-mile round trip commute.ย
Increased EV Convenience: Charge at Your Convenience
Fast EV charging already comes with time-saving advantages, but installing a level 2 charger in your home also makes charging more convenient. Instead of waiting at a charging station to make your journey, easily plug-in at your garage or driveway.
Many level 2 chargers integrate with smart home systems to optimize charging, help manage your charging schedule by automatically monitoring circuit loads, facilitating safe Wi-Fi-enabled on/off control, and ensuring your vehicle is ready when you need it.
Cost Savings: Charge Smarter, Not Harder
EV chargers draw electricity from the grid and through your home. With California power rates as high as 32 cents per kilowatt-hour, saving on EV energy costs is an important consideration.
Customizing schedules through your EV charging app allows you to prioritize off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower, resulting in a lower cost per charge. Some level 2 chargers also feature bidirectional charging, which allows electricity to return unused electrical loads from a battery to the grid or your home to maximize level 2 energy efficiency.
Investing in level 2 charging has other cost-saving opportunities, such as tax credits and rebates. Federal and state government programs offer financial incentives to encourage consumers to install sustainable technology in their homes โ for example, the Inflation Reduction Act covers up to 30% or $1,000 for eligible costs related to charger installation.
Improved Battery Health: Maximize Your EV’s Lifespan
Between all three charger categories, level 2 offers the ideal balance of battery health and efficiency. Rapid charging through a DC charger can stress and degrade your EV battery more quickly and isnโt practical for everyday use. Overcharging is likewise a culprit of premature battery degradation.
Level 2 chargers often come equipped with technology that allows them to monitor your carโs battery level and health. Between this feature and custom schedules, you can leave your vehicle plugged in without worrying about overcharging โ instead, the charger operates with best battery health preservation practices, such as keeping it below 80%, avoiding overheating, and more.
Choosing and Installing Your Level 2 Charger
Installing a level 2 charger carries important requirements. Regulations generally require you to obtain a permit and hire a licensed electrician for the installation since it often involves complex electrical work. An electrician will assess your homeโs existing electrical system to determine upgrading or installation needs, such as:
- Dedicated circuit installation
- 240-volt outlet
- Panel upgrade or replacement
- Compatible connectors and plugs
- Outdoor-rated equipment and installation for charging stations exposed to weather
Level 2 chargers arenโt one-size-fits-all. Various amperage and voltage levels affect the total charging speed potential, but your vehicleโs onboard charging system functions as a limit to this speed. In other words, a high voltage and amperage level 2 charger wonโt be faster if your onboard system maxes out at a lower level. Your electrician can guide you through selecting a charger thatโs compatible with your home and EV.
Call Express Electrical for EV Charger Installation and More
Serving Los Angeles and Southern California since 1982, the Express Electrical team delivers home EV charger installation and comprehensive electrical services. Weโre available 24/7 and offer fast response to ensure the safety and convenience of your home. Contact us or schedule online today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which vehicles currently support level 2 charging?
Most modern EVs support level 2 charging, including the Tesla Model 3, Chevrolet Bolt, and Nissan Leaf.
How much does it cost to install a level 2 charger?
Installation costs vary depending on your current electrical system. Based on your electrical panel capacity and other factors, your electrician can provide a detailed installation estimate.