An increased adoption rate of hybrids and EVs has made charging stations one of the most popular home improvements in the U.S. If you’d like to upgrade, you have the choice between a Level 1 or a Level 2 charger. Let’s explore the most important differences.
Level 1 Pro: Initial Costs
The upfront costs are among the biggest factors that shape this decision. The average homeowner can purchase and install a Level 1 charger for several hundred dollars. Purchasing and installing a Level 2 charger can cost five times that amount. There are more and larger energy incentives available for Level 2 chargers. Still, installing a Level 1 charger will be a much smaller financial investment for most consumers.
Level 2 Pro: Charging Speed
Level 1 chargers are 120-volt systems, and Level 2 chargers are 240-volt systems. That voltage disparity makes a dramatic difference in overall charging speeds. That may not be a big deal if you need a charger for a plug-in hybrid, but it is for a full EV. It can take a Level 1 charger up to 48 hours to charge an EV from 10% to 80% battery capacity. A Level 2 charger, on the other hand, would typically complete the job in under eight hours.
Level 2 Con: Installation Requirements
A Level 1 charger can plug directly into any standard outlet in a U.S. home. Most consumers won’t need professional installation for a Level 1 charger. This isn’t the case with a Level 2 charger, however. It requires hardwiring through the electrical panel or a dedicated 240-volt outlet. Most homeowners will need an electrician to add that infrastructure to their homes.
Level 1 Con: Future-Proofing
The presence of Level 1 chargers in the market continues to decrease. That’s because even newer PHEVs are demanding more and more charging capacity. You can invest in a Level 2 charger now that will meet your needs for the next 15 years or more.
Level 1 Pro: Strong Option for Owners With Low Driving Needs
It’s hard to beat the value of a Level 1 charger if you drive less than 40 miles a day. Even if you have a full EV, a Level 1 charger is an effective way to keep it topped off at 80%.
Level 2 Pro: Smart Features
Level 2 chargers tend to be more sophisticated with advanced smart features. These features include app-based remote access, energy monitoring and insights, and scheduling.
For most drivers, a Level 2 charger will be the better long-term investment. If you remain undecided, consider an in-home consultation through which you can explore the potential upsides and downsides in greater detail. If you live in North Carolina or a surrounding area and need EV charger services, make your first call to Blaze Air.
Whether you require installation, repair, or maintenance, our technicians will assist you with top-quality service at any time of the day or night. Take comfort in knowing your indoor air quality is the best it can be with MOE heating & cooling services Ontario's solution for heating, air conditioning, and ventilation that’s cooler than the rest.
Contact us to schedule a visit. Our qualified team of technicians, are always ready to help you and guide you for heating and cooling issues. Weather you want to replace an old furnace or install a brand new air conditioner, we are here to help you. Our main office is at Kitchener but we can service most of Ontario's cities
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