Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 EV Chargers: What You Need to Know

There are three types of electric vehicle home chargers: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3.

Level 1 EV chargers use a standard 120-volt household outlet and can add about 3-5 miles of range per hour of charging. Most EVs come with a Level 1 charger, and they are the least expensive type of EV charger. While this charger often works for PHEV (hybrid) vehicle owners, the charging speed may be too slow for EV owners.

Level 2 EV chargers use a 240-volt outlet, similar to what is used for a clothes dryer or oven. Level 2 chargers can add about 20-25 miles of range per hour of charging. They are more expensive than Level 1 chargers but are still relatively affordable. These are popular with owners of EV vehicles because the battery can be fully charged in a few hours.

Level 3 chargers, also known as DC fast chargers, use a 480-volt outlet and can add about 80-100 miles of range per hour of charging. Level 3 EV chargers are now a common feature at restaurants, retail stores, and other businesses. The chief reason for this is simple. If a business has a level 3 electric outlet, they will be able to receive a higher rate for their electricity. This is known as a demand-side ratio. A measure of demand is the number of customers who regularly use the service.

How do I install a home EV charging station?

The best way to install a home EV charging station is to have a professional come and do it for you. This way, you can be sure that the job is done correctly and that your home is safe.

The electrical wiring in your house is what makes your house a safe place to live. It is important to know about local codes before installing a home EV charger. Your installer will help you understand the capacity of your circuit breaker and whether you have the amperage required to power the electric vehicle charger. If the amperage is not sufficient to power the charger, you may need to upgrade your electrical system or you could risk causing a fire in your home. Some charger stations offer a variable amperage to match your home system. Don't worry - your installer will handle all the details for you.

Can you charge a Tesla into a regular wall outlet?

Yes, you can charge a Tesla into a regular wall outlet but you may not want to. It would take a very long time to fully charge your vehicle that way. That's why many Tesla owners choose to purchase a Level 2 charger in order to be able to get a full charge in just a few hours.