What if you have an electric vehicle but hate the long waits at public chargers? The good news is that there’s something you can do about it. With home EV charging stations, you can power your car battery while it’s parked in your garage or driveway. This helps you avoid long waits and going out of the way for a charge. If you’re ready for an EV charger at home, you need to research the different types available. We’ll explain more about the three levels of chargers. Once you decide which is right for you, you can reach out to an electrician for help with installation.
Level 1 Chargers: The Basics
Level 1 chargers are the basic plug-ins that come with your new electric vehicle. These chargers plug directly into your standard 120-volt home outlets and require no upgrades or installation. They are the most basic and slowest type of EV charger. You will receive around 2 to 5 miles of driving range per hour with a Level 1 charger. These chargers might be suitable if you have plenty of time at home for charging and drive only short distances each day.
Level 2 Chargers: Faster
Stepping up to the next level, Level 2 chargers provide more miles per charging hour. With a Level 2, you can expect roughly 25 miles of range for every hour of charging. These charging stations still need to stay plugged in for several hours, but they are better for those who spend more time on the road each day. Level 2 chargers plug into a 240-volt outlet. This is the same type of outlet your larger appliances may use. It’s unlikely you have an outlet of this kind in or near your garage, so you’ll need an electrician for a professional installation.
Level 3 Chargers: Top Charging Performance
Known as fast chargers or super chargers, Level 3 charging stations provide very rapid charging so that you can get on the road quicker. A Level 3 EV charger offers up to 250 miles per hour of charging. These chargers are great for people who have little time for charging and those who drive more miles between charges. A Level 3 charger requires professional installation. So, you will definitely want to work with a licensed electrician to install the charger and ensure your electrical system can handle the added load.
When planning for a new EV charging station in your home, make sure you know what type is compatible with your vehicle. Then consider your needs so that you can choose the best level for you.
If you are ready to start charging your EV at home, reach out to our team at Comeaux Electrical Services in Lafayette, LA for EV charger installation today.