Level 1 EV Chargers

In this guide, we will cover the basics of Level 1 EV charging so that you can be prepared the next time you need to charge your car.

The Difference between Level 1, 2 & 3 EV Chargers

There are different types of electric vehicle supply equipment, and not all EVs use the same charging unit or cord plugs. Depending on the vehicle manufacturer, the charging system used, and your driving habits, your vehicle may be better suited for one charger over another.

Level 1 Charging: 120-Volt

This is the most common type of charging station, and it can be found in many homes and businesses. Level 1 charging is a lower-cost system that uses a standard 120-volt outlet, so it's easy to find a spot to plug in. However, it also means that charging takes longer than with other types of stations. Level 1 home EV chargers can add about 3 to 5 miles of driving range per hour of charging.

If you are an electric vehicle owner, it's a good idea to install a level 1 charging station at home. That way, you can easily charge your car overnight or whenever else you have time. Many workplaces also offer level 1 charging, so you can top off your battery during the day. Installing a level 1 EV charging station is relatively simple and inexpensive. All you need is a dedicated 120-volt outlet and the proper wiring. You can install it yourself or hire an electrician to do it for you.

Level 2 Charging: 208-Volt to 240-Volt

Level 2 chargers use 208-240 volt AC power and can fully charge a battery in 4-6 hours. In order to use a Level 2 charger, you will need to purchase a home charging station and have it installed by a qualified electrician. You can find Level 2 chargers at public parking garages, workplaces, and retail establishments.

If you are interested in purchasing a home charging station, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you will need to determine if your home’s electrical system is compatible with a Level 2 charger. And second, you will need to decide which type of charging station you would like to purchase. If you have a compatible home electrical system, installing a Level 2 charger is a great way to reduce your EV’s charging time.

Level 3 Charging: 400-Volt to 900-Volt (DC Fast Charge & Supercharging) 

Level 3 charging is the fastest way to charge an electric vehicle. It uses high-voltage DC power to quickly recharge the battery. Level 3 charging is also known as DC fast charging or supercharging.

Level 3 charging is much faster than level 1 or level 2 charging. A typical level 3 charger can add about 75 to 1,200 miles of range in just 60 minutes. That’s significantly faster than a level 2 charger. Moreover, level 3 chargers are usually located at public charging stations, like those found at shopping malls or gas stations. Some automakers also offer level 3 charging as an option for home use. Because level 3 chargers are extremely expensive, there's been a barrier to their widespread adoption. But as the cost of electric vehicles continues to fall, level 3 charging is becoming more common.

Types of EV Charging Connectors: What Is Level 1 Charging? 

The Simplest Level 1 Charging Explanation

If you have an electric car, you’ll need a way to charge it. Level 1 electric vehicle charging is the simplest and most common way to charge an EV, as it plugs into your existing electrical panel. All electric vehicles come with a EV charger and cord that can plug into any standard 120-volt outlet (the same kind of wall plug you use for your clothes dryer and appliances at home).

Level 1 charging is best for short daily driving trips or top-offs, and it’s the most convenient way to charge since you can do it anywhere there’s a standard outlet.

Determining EV Charging Times

There are a few different factors that will affect how long it takes to charge an electric vehicle. The first is the size of the battery. A larger EV battery will take longer to charge than a smaller one. The second factor is the type of charger being used. Remember that level 1 EV chargers have the slowest rating according to the National Electrical Manufacturers Association, while level 2 and DC fast chargers are faster. The third factor is the power output of the charger. A higher-powered charger will charge your car's battery faster than a lower-powered charger.

To get an estimate of how long it will take to charge your EV, you can use a charging time calculator. Simply enter the size of your vehicle battery, the type and power of your charger, and the desired charging level. The calculator will then give you an estimate of how long it will take to charge your EV. Keep in mind that these are only estimates. Actual charging times may vary depending on other factors, such as the ambient temperature and whether the battery life is already partially charged. If you're planning to drive long distances in your EV, it's important to plan ahead and make sure you'll be able to charge your vehicle when you need to. To find public charging stations near you, check with the U.S. Department of Energy. With a little planning, you can make sure your electric vehicle is always ready to go.

EVs with the Longest Range

Today, most EV owners are looking for faster charging and longer distances. Below are the top EVs and the electric range you can expect from them:

Lucid Air: Approximately 520 miles of range

Tesla Model S: Approximately 405 miles of range

Tesla Model 3: Approximately 358 miles of range

Mercedes EQS: Approximately 350 miles of range

Tesla Model X: Approximately 348 miles of range

If you are considering an EV charger, you will need to make sure the electric vehicle service equipment is compatible with your EV. Tesla models, for example, use a 240-volt EV charger, while an EV like the Chevy Bolt uses a 120-volt charger.

(Need an EV adapter? Check out our complete collection of adapters for Tesla and J1772 EVs).