Part of the process of buying an electric vehicle (EV) is learning the ins and outs of using them. These are vehicles that use a completely different system than traditional cars. Therefore, it’s important to do the work in learning how each difference affects you as the driver! One big difference as we all know is the charging component of things – but it gets more complicated than that! There are different levels of EV chargers that have completely different processes for juicing up your car. The two most common you find are Level 1 and Level 2 electric vehicle chargers. Here are the ways in which these are different and what the best option for you is to install in your home should you buy an EV.
What is the Difference Between Level 1 and Level 2 EV Chargers?
Simply put, Level 2 electric vehicle chargers are the most effective way to charge your vehicle at home or on the go. There is a Level 3, but these are nearly impossible to install at home. That said, most EV owners use Level 1 or Level 2 charging connectors at home. A level 2 charger is more effective for a variety of reasons. The easiest way to explain it is that Level 1 chargers only use the common outlet you find in your home. As you can imagine that 120-volt connection isn’t that quick to charge an entire EV! That’s why Level 2 chargers are the way to go, but there are more reasons to know about before making the purchase.
Why Level 2 EV Chargers are The Best Way to Go for New Electronic Vehicle Owners
You can often get 8 times the amount of charge per hour with a Level 2 charger than a Level 1. Not to mention, the voltage on a Level 2 charging connector is double that of the Level 1 charger. Many homes today are even built with 240-v outlets, particularly in the garage, which would support a Level 2 charger.
Plus, many convenient Level 2 electric vehicle chargers are popping up around the country every day. The best way to charge your car on the go and at home is with a Level 2 charger. While Level 1 is helpful for those who just want to use the traditional outlet they have at home, there’s a real improvement to be had when you move up to Level 2 charging at home and on the go.
Conclusion
While we know that Level 1 charging isn’t as effective, there are times when it might come in handy. Overall, Level 2 chargers are very different from Level 1 chargers and play a vital role in many becoming EV owners because they’re not going to take much work on your part to use at home – especially if you’re in a newer home or apartment. The differences between Level 1 and Level 2 electric vehicle charging are pretty big, and you definitely want to go with the Level 2 option if you can!
Dylan Welch is the CEO and Host of Going Green, a podcast, website, and social media brand that highlights renewable energy, cleantech, and sustainable news.