Congratulations on joining the future by becoming an electric vehicle (EV) owner. Whether you’re just purchasing your first EV or you are a long-time EV driver, you should think about upgrading your at-home charging options. The quality of your home EV charging station will have a very noticeable effect on your enjoyment of your electric vehicle. When you have the ability to quickly recharge your battery, you can spend more time on the road and less time plugged into the wall. Mr. Electric of Palo Alto installs high-quality EV chargers in Palo Alto, California, and the surrounding areas. Learn more about our EV charger installation services.
The Three Kinds of Electric Vehicle Chargers
As you begin to research EV chargers, you will notice that there are three different “Levels” of chargers. When installing an EV charging station in your home, it’s helpful to understand the pros and cons of a Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 charger. When you work with Mr. Electric of Palo Alto, we will help you figure out which type of charger will best suit your property and your driving habits. The three types of electric vehicle chargers include the following:
- Level 1 Charger – A Level 1 charger is the most basic form of EV charger. They will come standard with most vehicles and can be plugged into a normal three-pronged wall outlet. The main drawback of a Level 1 Charger is its charging speed. These types of chargers can take over 20 hours to charge a battery completely.
- Level 2 Charger – Level 2 chargers are the most popular home EV chargers. They have rapid charging speeds, able to completely charge a battery in just three hours. However, in order to install a Level 2 charger, you will need a dedicated 240-volt circuit, which requires the help of a professional electrician.
- Level 3 Charger – You won’t find a Level 3 charging station in anyone’s home. These are only installed in commercial properties, such as public charging banks. They are the fastest EV chargers, though. A Level 3 charger can add 160 miles of range in just 30 minutes of charging.