As an electric car owner, the question that arises in my mind is which electric car charger will give me the best range and keep more battery lifespan. And at the end, I decided to buy a level 2 EV charger(link to check the price on Lectron). After going with large research, I found that the level 2 EV charger is really the best one for my electric car. A level 2 EV charger is faster, more convenient, cost-saving, and eco-friendly too as per my own experience. Do you know why I bought a Level-2 EV charger?
On the whole, I bought a level 2 EV charger (link to check the price on Lectron) as I observed one of my friends having a level 2 EV charger in his electric car which gives faster charging, convenient driving, and more energy efficient source, and increased range of car and also the best example for future-proofing. Here I have mentioned the reason why I choose the level 2 EV charger.
- Faster charging
Level 2 EV chargers offer faster charging times than Level 1 chargers, which typically use a standard household outlet. A Level 2 charger can fully charge an electric vehicle in a few hours, whereas a Level 1 charger can take up to 12 hours.
- Convenience
With a Level 2 EV charger, I was able to charge my electric vehicle at home without having to rely on public charging stations. This was convenient for me as I’m living in a limited public charging infrastructure area.
- Energy efficiency
Level 2 chargers are more energy-efficient than Level 1 chargers, which means that you can save money on your electricity bill over time.
- Increased range
Faster charging times mean that I get back on the road sooner and travel longer distances, which can be especially important when I needed to rely on my electric vehicle for commuting or traveling long distances.
- Future-proofing
As more electric vehicles hit the road and public charging infrastructure expands, Level 2 chargers are becoming increasingly popular. Investment in a Level 2 charger now being future-proof for my home charging setup and ensure that I’m able to take advantage of new technology as it becomes available.
According to me, Level 2 EV chargers are popular among electric vehicle owners because they can charge my car faster than a Level 1 charger. A Level 2 charger typically delivers 240 volts of power, allowing me to charge my electric car up to seven times faster than a standard 120-volt outlet. This was found more convenient when I have a longer commute or frequently take long trips.
Level 2 charging is the most practical and cost-effective way to charge an electric vehicle, and it’s becoming more widely available every day.
Green Car Reports
The most important takeaway from this article, I believe, is that I strongly encourage you to not purchase any other electric car charger. I tested multiple electric car chargers trying to save a charging speed, and buck, and they just aren’t very good.
I bought a cheap one for myself and it just didn’t have enough quality for a better driving range. Also, cheaper electric car chargers often aren’t as fast can charging an electric car and will not give you the best range.
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Benefits of Buying level 2 EV Charger
The table below shows the benefits of the Level 2 electric car chargers that I have got.
| The Benefit of a Level 2 EV Charger | Description |
| Convenience | With a Level 2 charger at home, I don’t have to go out of my way to find a public charging station. I can simply plug in my car at home and let it charge while I go about my day. |
| Cost savings | Charging at my home can be more affordable than using public charging stations, especially when I’m taking advantage of off-peak electricity rates. |
| Eco-friendliness | When I committed to reducing my carbon footprint, charging my electric car at home with a Level 2 charger can help me achieve that goal. |
Overall, It’s my personal experience. But, it’s up to each individual to weigh the pros and cons of buying a Level 2 EV charger and decide if it’s the right choice for them.
Level 2 EV Charger Installation Cost
Whenever I need an installation for my level 2 EV charger, I always get confused. I don’t know whether it cost high or low. And then each and every time I analyzed my charger.
In my view, the cost of installing a Level 2 EV charger can vary widely depending on several factors like its electrical infrastructure, distance from the electrical panel to the charging location, the type of charger I use, and the labor cost.
In general, the total cost of installing a Level 2 EV charger ranges from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars for me. On average, homeowners like me can expect to pay between $500 and $1,500 for a basic installation, with assuming no significant electrical upgrades are needed.
The table below shows the factors affecting my Level 2 Charger Installation Cost
| Factors Affecting Level 2 Charger Installation Cost | How do they affect the installation? |
| Existing electrical infrastructure | When I have a home or building that has an electrical panel with sufficient capacity and the necessary wiring in place, the installation cost was lower than when upgrades were needed. |
| Distance from the electrical panel to the charging location | The farther the charging location is from the electrical panel, the more expensive the installation may be due to the need for additional wiring and materials. |
| Type of charger | There are many different types of Level 2 EV chargers available, and the cost can vary significantly depending on the brand, features, and power output. |
| Labor costs | Installation costs will also depend on the rates charged by the electrician or contractor who performs the work. |
The final cost may be higher depending on the specific circumstances of the installation. I will recommend you obtain quotes from several qualified electricians or contractors before making a decision.
Which Steps I’m Following to Install a Level 2 EV Charger?
I go through a few steps to install a Level 2 EV charger, including choosing the best charger for my needs, getting my electrical system ready, and installing the charger itself. Here are a few general steps which help me to get through the procedure:
- Identified my needs
The type of connector my car uses, my vehicle’s power consumption, and my charging requirements (such as how frequently and quickly I need to charge) must all be known before buying an EV charger. I also, choose a place for the charger.
- Contact an electrician
I have been employed by a certified electrician to install my Level 2 EV charger. An electrician makes me sure the electrical system in my home was capable of supporting the charger and carrying out the installation in a secure manner.
- Kept my electrical system ready
My electrician might need to create a new circuit or upgrade my service panel in order to make room for the charger at that time, depending on the electrical layout of my home. A dedicated 240-volt circuit was also necessary for the charger, which I have included adding new wiring and an outlet.
- Put the charger in.
The electrician installed the charger itself when the electrical system was complete. In most cases, this entails attaching the charger to the electrical circuit and putting it on a wall or post.
- Checked out the charger.
The electrician tested the charger after it has been installed to make sure it was operating properly and gave my car the right amount of electricity.
- Obtained the required permits for my car.
Depending on my living location, I have applied for permission to install an EV charger from my local government. I have also asked my electrician what licenses I require and how I need to apply for them.
I have securely and successfully installed a Level 2 EV charger by following these instructions. But, bear in mind that certain procedures and specifications could change based on the electrical setup of my home, the charger I select, and local laws that were said by my electrician after the complete installation.
How Much Fast is a Level 2 EV Charger than a Level 1 or Level 3?
No need to rush between any type of charger as I have got the experience that Level 2 EV chargers are faster than Level 1 chargers and slower than Level 3 chargers.
Level 1 chargers are the slowest type of EV chargers and are typically found in households. They provide a charging rate of around 4-5 miles of range per hour of charging.
Level 2 chargers are faster than Level 1 chargers and are often found in public charging stations, workplaces, and some households. They provide a charging rate of around 10-20 miles of range per hour of charging.
Level 3 chargers, also known as DC fast chargers, are the fastest type of EV chargers and are typically found at public charging stations. They provide a much higher charging rate of around 100 miles of range per 30 minutes of charging.
But when I used a level 2 EV charger I found that it was better for household purposes. My speed in the car also gets vary at that time.
The table below shows the Type of EV Chargers
| Type of Charger | Known as | Used in | Range per hour |
| Level 1 EV Charger | Slow Charger | Households | 4-5 miles |
| Level 2 EV Charger | Medium Average Charger | Public charging stations, workplaces, and some households | 10-20 miles |
| Level 3 EV Charger | DC Fast Charger | Public charging stations | 200 miles |
Overall, Level 2 chargers are faster than Level 1 chargers but slower than Level 3 chargers, making them a good option for drivers who need to charge their vehicles relatively quickly but don’t require the fastest charging speeds available.
Amperage of Level 2 EV Charger
I am totally concerned about my electric car, its range, and its lifespan. I am going through lots of experiences and sharing all of them here. That’s why I recommend buying the Level 2 EV charger will be good and here talking about the amperage of a level 2 EV charger.
The amperage (amps) of a Level 2 EV charger always varies, but the most common amperage I observed for Level 2 electric car chargers are 16 amps, 30 amps, 32 amps, and 40 amps.
The amperage of the Level 2 EV charger determines how quickly it can charge my electric car. A higher amperage Level 2 charger can charge an electric vehicle faster than a lower amperage charger.
Basically, the charging speed was limited by the electric vehicle’s onboard charger, which determines me the maximum charging rate it can accept. The charging rate is measured in kilowatts (kW), which is the product of the voltage and amperage of the charger. When I went on the trip, a Level 2 EV charger with a 32-amp rating and a 240-volt supply was delivered up to 7.7 kW of power (32 amps x 240 volts).
The main point I have noted was that the amperage of the Level 2 EV charger should match the electrical service available at my home or building. When I have a 40-amp electrical service, I was not able to install a 40-amp Level 2 charger without upgrading my electrical service and It was a big issue I experienced. And additionally, I observed, the installation of a higher amperage charger may require additional electrical work and a higher installation cost.
Impact of Level 2 EV Charger on Electric Car
Level 2 EV chargers are an important component of electric vehicle infrastructure, and they can significantly impact the performance and usability of electric cars. Here are a few ways in which Level 2 EV chargers have impacted my electric car:
- Charging Speed
Level 2 EV chargers provide faster charging speeds than Level 1 chargers, which typically use a standard household outlet. Level 2 chargers use a 240-volt power supply and can deliver up to 25 miles of range per hour of charging, depending on the car’s battery size and charging capabilities. This means that electric cars can be charged more quickly and efficiently, making them more practical for longer trips.
- Range
With faster charging times, Level 2 EV chargers can help electric car owners increase their daily range. For example, a typical Level 2 charger can provide a full charge to a 60 kWh battery in about 4-6 hours, providing an estimated range of 200-250 miles, depending on the car’s efficiency and driving conditions.
- Convenience
Level 2 EV chargers are also more convenient than Level 1 chargers, which can take up to 24 hours to fully charge an electric car. With Level 2 chargers, electric car owners can plug in their vehicles overnight or during the workday and have them fully charged and ready to go when they need them.
The convenience of Level 2 charging cannot be overstated. It’s the difference between a quick pit stop and a lengthy detour on a road trip.
Green Car Report
- Battery Health
Level 2 EV chargers are also designed to be more gentle on electric car batteries than Level 1 chargers, which can lead to longer battery life and better overall performance over time.
Overall, Level 2 EV chargers can have a significant impact on electric car performance and usability, providing faster charging times, longer range, and greater convenience for electric car owners.
As electric vehicle adoption continues to grow, the availability of Level 2 chargers will become increasingly important to support the needs of electric car drivers.
Where are Level 2 EV Chargers Located?
Public charging stations, companies, and private households are just a few locations with Level 2 EV chargers. Typical locations where Level 2 EV chargers can be found include:
| Locations for level 2 EV chargers | Description |
| Public charging stations | Level 2 charging is available at several cities’ and municipalities’ public charging stations. |
| Malls and shopping centers | To draw EV drivers, some malls and shopping centers have built EV charging stations in their parking lots. |
| Workplaces | To encourage environmentally friendly transportation options, many firms are installing EV charging stations in their employee parking lots. |
| Hotels | A few accommodations provide EV charging facilities for their visitors. |
| Dealerships for electric vehicles | Many of these provide their clients with Level 2 charging stations. |
| Residential properties | Homeowners may install Level 2 EV chargers for personal use in their driveways or garages. |
You can find Level 2 EV chargers in your neighborhood with the assistance of a number of internet tools and mobile applications, like PlugShare and ChargePoint.
What is the Price of a Level 2 Electric Vehicle Charging Station?
A Level 2 electric vehicle (EV) charging station can be quite costly depending on a number of elements, including the manufacturer, the features, the installation conditions, and the location.
A basic Level 2 charging station with a 240-volt power source and a maximum output of 30 amps may often be purchased for between $500 and $1,500. On the other hand, more sophisticated devices with attributes like Wi-Fi connectivity, touch screens, and smart charging capacities can cost up to $5,000 or more.
I kept my installation costs into account in addition to the charging station’s purchase price because they can change based on things like electrical wire, conduit, and labor rates. A professional electrician is usually required to install a Level 2 charging station, and installation costs can range from $500 to $2,000 or more depending on the complexity of the installation.
It’s worth noting that some utility companies and local governments offer incentives and rebates for the installation of EV charging stations, which can help offset the cost and I go with such incentives and rebates for my level 2 EV charger.
Level 2 EV charger My Review
After Purchasing a level 2 EV charger, I have my personal opinion on Level 2 EV chargers. And I can suggest some popular Level 2 EV chargers based on it.
The table below shows the top 5 popular level 2 EV chargers
| Top 5 popular level 2 EV Chargers | Rating on Amazon(out of 5 Stars) | Best Feature of this EV Charger | Charging Speed | Charging Time | Length of Cable |
| JuiceBox Pro 40 | 4.6 | Highly recommended by customers | 40 amps | 4-6 hours | 24-foot |
| ChargePoint Home Flex | 4.5 | Durability and ease of use | 50 amps | 3-4 hours | not mentioned |
| ClipperCreek HCS-40 | 4.8 | Reliability and performance | 32 amps | 4-8 hours | not mentioned |
| Siemens US2 | 4.3 | Compact design and ease of installation | 30 amps | 4-6 hours | 14-foot |
| Bosch Power Max 2 | 4.2 | Sleek design and ease of use | 40 amps | 4-6 hours | 25-foot |
I always kept one reminder in my mind the suitability of a Level 2 EV charger for my electric car will depend on factors such as the car’s charging capabilities, the location where the charger will be installed, and some of my personal preferences.
With more Level 2 charging options available, electric vehicle owners can travel farther and charge up more quickly, making electric cars a more practical option for everyday use.
Inside EVs
I also noted that the installation process for a Level 2 charger can vary depending on my home’s electrical system and my specific needs. I recommend consulting with a licensed electrician before purchasing and installing a Level 2 charger will be the best choice always.
Is it Safe to Charge My Electric Car with Level2 220volt EV Charger?
Charging, charging, and charging.! After buying an electric car, I always forgot to keep my car charged. And the electric car always needs charging. But the question raised is it really safe to charge my electric car with a voltage of 220 volts using a level 2 EV charger?
Then after consulting with my friend who is an electrical engineer about charging I got the answer yes, it is generally safe to charge my electric car with a Level 2 220-volt charger, as long as it is properly installed and meets safety standards.
Level 2 chargers operate at higher voltages (typically between 208 and 240 volts) than Level 1 chargers, which can increase the charging speed of my electric car. However, this also means that the electrical system must be able to handle the increased load, and the charger must be installed correctly to prevent electrical hazards such as overloading or short circuits.
To ensure the safe operation of my Level 2 electric car charger, it was important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and use and to have the charger installed by a qualified electrician who is familiar with local building and electrical codes. Additionally, I’ll recommend you periodically inspect the charger and its electrical components for any signs of damage or wear.
Overall, when properly installed and maintained, a Level 2 charger is a safe and effective way to charge your electric car at home.
How I Avoid Common Pitfalls with Level 2 EV Charger Installation?
Installing a Level 2 electric vehicle (EV) charger at home is really a great investment for me and also for Electric car owners, but within a period of few months I observed some pitfalls when I Installed a level 2 EV charger. and I get to know that it’s important to take certain precautions to avoid blowing my fuse and going over budget. Here are some tips which I have followed to avoid common installation mistakes:
- Hire a Licensed electrician.
A licensed electrician will be able to assess your home’s electrical system and recommend the appropriate charger for your needs. They will also be able to install the charger safely and in compliance with local electrical codes, which can help prevent electrical hazards and minimize the risk of blowing a fuse.
- Choose the right amperage.
The amperage rating of my charger was determining how much power it can deliver to my electric car. Choosing a charger with too high an amperage for my home’s electrical system can cause the circuit to overload and blow a fuse. Conversely, choosing a charger with too low an amperage may not provide sufficient power to charge my electric car quickly. So my electrician helped me to choose the appropriate amperage for my home.
- Upgrade your electrical panel
My home’s electrical panels were new. But my electrician told me If it is old or outdated, it may not be able to handle the increased power demand of a Level 2 EV charger, and Upgrading my electrical panel can help ensure that my charger operates safely and reliably. But my home’s panel was new so I never upgrade them
- I have used the right wiring and outlets
The wiring and outlets used for my charger were rated for the appropriate amperage and voltage and installed correctly to prevent electrical hazards to my electric car. My electrician helped me to choose the appropriate wiring and outlets for my charger.
- Tested the circuit before use.
Before using my new charger, it was important to test the circuit to ensure that it is working properly and is not overloaded so I checked out. My electrician performed a load test to check that the circuit can handle the charging demand of my electric car.
By following these tips and working with a licensed electrician, I avoid blowing off my fuse and ensured that my Level 2 EV charger installation was safe and reliable.
What Does Tweet Say About Level 2 EV Charger?
- The Emporia 48 Amp Level 2 Smart Home EV Charger!
- EV700 level 2 home EV charger qualifies for over 50 utility rebates and regional incentives
- maXpeedingrods Level 2 EV Charger
- Clipper Creek LCS-20, 16 Amp Level 2 EVSE 240V Car Vehicle EV Charger
Level 2 Charging KW
The charging speed of a Level 2 charger is measured in kilowatts (kW), and it depends on several factors such as the amperage rating of the charger, the voltage of the electrical system, and the battery capacity of the electric vehicle (EV).
A typical Level 2 charger has an amperage rating between 30 and 80 amps, and a voltage rating between 208 and 240 volts. The charging speed of the charger can be calculated by multiplying the amperage and voltage ratings and dividing the result by 1000 to get the charging speed in kilowatts.
For example, a Level 2 charger with a rating of 40 amps and 240 volts would have a charging speed of 9.6 kW (40 x 240 / 1000 = 9.6). This means that the charger could add approximately 25-30 miles of range per hour of charging to an EV with a 60 kWh battery.
It’s important to note that not all EVs can accept the maximum charging speed of a Level 2 charger. Some older EV models may have a lower maximum charging rate, while newer models may have a higher maximum charging rate. Additionally, the charging speed may be affected by factors such as the temperature of the battery and the state of charge of the battery.
It’s all that a Level 2 charger can provide faster charging speeds than a Level 1 charger, which is typically rated at 120 volts and 12 amps. This can be especially useful for electric car owners who need to charge their vehicles quickly or who have longer commutes.
Drawbacks of Level 2 EV Charger
I am recommending you buy a level 2 EV charger but it also contains some drawbacks like level 2 EV chargers are expensive, needs professional installation, has limited mobility, its charging speed, and availability in the market.
- Cost
Installing a Level 2 EV charger can be pricey, especially if new wiring or an upgraded electrical system is required.
- Installation
Level 2 chargers need to be professionally installed, which can be time-consuming and expensive. They may also need permission.
- Mobility restrictions
Because Level 2 EV chargers are frequently put in fixed locations, electric car users may have fewer options for flexibility and mobility.
- Charger speed
Level 2 chargers charge more quickly than level 1 chargers, however, they still lag behind DC fast chargers. Thus, it may not be practical for all drivers to use a level 2 charger because it can take several hours to fully charge an electric vehicle.
- Accessibility
Finding a charging station when you need one can be more challenging due to the lower availability of level 2 EV chargers compared to level 1 chargers.
Can I Leave My Electric Car Connected to a Level 2 Charger After it’s Fully Charged?
Leaving my electric vehicle attached to a Level 2 charger after it has finished charging is typically safe. There is no chance of overcharging my battery because the majority of Level 2 chargers are built to automatically stop charging once the battery is fully charged.
But, if I leave my electric car plugged in for an extended amount of time (say, several days), it could harm my battery unnecessarily. Once my electric car au is fully charged, it is normally advised to remove it from the charger to prevent any extra strain on the battery of the electric car.
Also, it’s crucial to keep in mind other EV owners who might need access to the charging station if I use a public charging station. It’s polite to unplug and move my car if it’s completely charged so that others can use the charger.
Can I Install a Level 2 Charger in a Rental Property?
It mostly relies on the conditions of my lease agreement and the landlord’s willingness to permit it whether I can install a Level 2 charger in a rental property.
Then I checked out my lease agreement before installing a Level 2 charger to see if there are any limitations on making changes to the property or setting up my electrical equipment. Depending on the specifics of the lease, tenants were not allowing me to alter the property without the landlord’s prior written approval.
And hence I talked with my landlord about my ideas and get their approval before moving forward with the installation when my lease agreement permits adjustments. It was critical to discussing these concerns upfront because my landlord was worried about the installation costs, liability risks, or potential property damage.
Given that the Level 2 charger needs a dedicated circuit and specific equipment, and presuming my landlord has given the go-ahead, I need to hire a professional electrician to install it. Also, I have applied for the required permissions with my neighborhood building department.
I notice that if I need to install a Level 2 charger in the future as a rental property, I will need to take it out when I go unless my landlord permits me to leave it there for the incoming renter. Because of this, it’s crucial to go over my ideas with my landlord and I need to make sure we both agree on them before starting the installation.
Conclusion
Conclusion#1: Level 2 EV chargers are faster than level 1 EV chargers.
Compared to Level 1 chargers, Level 2 EV chargers provide a quicker and more effective charging solution for every electric vehicle.
Conclusion#2: Charging rate of level 2 EV chargers.
They normally need a 240-volt AC power source and have a charging rate of up to 25 miles per hour.
Conclusion#3: Use of level 2 EV chargers.
Level 2 chargers are frequently used in household and business settings and are getting more prevalent in public places including parking lots, malls, and hotels.
Conclusion#4: Installation of level 2 EV chargers.
For owners of electric vehicles, installing a Level 2 EV charger at their residence or place of employment can be convenient and cost-effective while also promoting a more sustainable future.
Conclusion#5: My experience with level 2 EV chargers.
In my own words, level 2 EV chargers have faster charging than level 1 EV chargers, they are so convenient as I can charge them at home without any rely on public charging stations, these level 2 EV chargers are more energy efficient which gives more range to my electric car. And thus I recommend you buy them for a fast and safe journey with your electric car.
FAQs
Can I install a level 2 charger at home?
Yes, you can install a level 2 charger at home if you have access to a 240-volt circuit. You may need to hire an electrician to install the necessary wiring and circuit breaker.
Can I use a level 2 charger with an electric car?
Most electric cars are compatible with level 2 chargers, but it’s important to check the specifications of your specific car to ensure compatibility.
Can I use a level 2 charger in public charging stations?
Yes, level 2 chargers are commonly found in public charging stations and can be used to charge your electric car while you’re out and about.
How much does it cost to use a level 2 charger in public charging stations?
The cost of using a level 2 charger in a public charging station varies depending on the location and the charging network. Some charging networks require a subscription, while others offer pay-per-use pricing. On average, the cost can range from $0.15 to $0.30 per kilowatt-hour.
Are there any incentives or tax credits available for installing a level 2 charger at home?
Yes, there are incentives and tax credits available for installing a level 2 charger at home. The federal government offers a tax credit of up to $1,000 for installing a charger, and some state and local governments offer additional incentives.
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