What Is A Level 2 Charger, And Should You Get One?

Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular, and with them comes the need for more reliable charging stations. Level 2 chargers are one of the most common types of charging stations for electric vehicles, but what exactly does this mean? In this blog post, we’ll explore what a level 2 charger is, the advantages and disadvantages of having one, and whether or not you should get one. We’ll also discuss how to install a level 2 charger in your home and what to consider before doing so. By the end of this article, you’ll have all the information needed to make an informed decision about whether or not a level 2 charger is right for you.

What is a Level 2 charger?

If you’re an electric car owner, chances are you’ve heard of Level 2 charging, but what is it? Simply put, a Level 2 charger is an EVSE (electric vehicle supply equipment) that uses 240 volts AC power, like the kind you have in your home, to charge your car.

While most public chargers are Level 1, which use 120 volts AC and can add about 3 to 5 miles of range per hour of charging, Level 2 chargers can add 25 to 50 miles of range per hour. That means if you have a long commute or take frequent road trips, a Level 2 charger will get you back on the road much faster than a Level 1.

The downside to Level 2 chargers is that they require installation by a certified electrician, and they can be significantly more expensive than a Level 1 charger. But if you do a lot of driving, they’re definitely worth the investment.

How much faster is a Level 2 charger than a Level 1 charger?

A Level 2 charger is significantly faster than a Level 1 charger. In fact, a Level 2 charger can charge your electric vehicle up to four times faster than a Level 1 charger. That said, the time it takes to fully charge your electric vehicle will still depend on its battery size.

The benefits of having a Level 2 charger

A level 2 charger is a charger that can charge an electric vehicle (EV) faster than a level 1 charger. The main benefits of having a level 2 charger are that it can save you time and money.

If you charge your EV at a level 2 charger, it will take less time than if you were to charge it at a level 1 charger. This is because the level 2 charger delivers more power to the battery, which charges it faster. In addition, using a level 2 charger can also save you money in the long run. This is because the higher power output of the charger means that you will use less electricity overall, which will lower your energy bills.

The disadvantages of having a Level 2 charger

If you’re considering getting a Level 2 charger for your home, there are a few things to keep in mind. While Level 2 chargers are faster and more convenient than Level 1 chargers, they also come with a few disadvantages.

First, Level 2 chargers are more expensive than Level 1 chargers. This is because they require special equipment and installation. Second, if you live in an area with frequent power outages, a Level 2 charger may not be the best option for you. Finally, while most public charging stations are Level 2, many homes and businesses only have Level 1 chargers available. This means that you may not be able to charge your car as quickly as you’d like when away from home.

How to choose the right Level 2 charger for you

If you’re considering purchasing a Level 2 charger for your home, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you’ll need to decide if you want a hardwired or plug-in charger. Hardwired chargers are permanently installed and require an electrician to install, while plug-in chargers can be easily installed by the homeowner.

Next, you’ll need to determine the amperage that best suits your needs. Level 2 chargers come in 16, 32, and 40 amp options. If you plan on charging multiple EVs at the same time or want the fastest possible charge times, you’ll want to opt for the higher amperage option.

Finally, you’ll need to decide on the connector type that is compatible with your EV. The most common connector types are J1772 and CHAdeMO. J1772 is compatible with all EVs on the market today, while CHAdeMO is only compatible with some EVs. Be sure to check what connector type your EV uses before making your purchase.

Conclusion

Level 2 chargers are a great way to get your electric vehicle charged quickly and conveniently. They provide significantly faster charging speeds than Level 1 chargers, making them the perfect solution for longer trips or when you need to charge up in a hurry. With the added convenience of being able to install one at home and no hassle of having to find an available public charger, a Level 2 charger is definitely worth considering if you’re looking for an efficient way to keep your EV running.