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Man charging using an EV charger

Level 2 EV chargers are a type of electric vehicle (EV) charging station that offer faster charging speeds than Level 1 chargers. They typically use a 240-volt electrical system, similar to the one used for a clothes dryer or oven, and can charge an EV battery in a shorter amount of time than a Level 1 charger.

How Level 2 EV Charging Works

Level 2 EV charging works by using a specialised EV charging unit, also known as an EVSE (electric vehicle supply equipment), to connect to the 240-volt electrical system in your home or business. The charging unit then communicates with the EV to properly charge the battery. The charging speed will depend on the EV’s onboard charging capacity, but generally, a Level 2 charger will be able to charge an EV battery in 4 to 8 hours.

How to Get Started with Level 2 EV Charging

To get started with Level 2 EV charging, the first step is to determine if your home or business has a 240-volt electrical system and enough power to support the installation of a Level 2 charger. If so, you can then contact a professional like Power Shift to assess your property and provide a quote for the installation of a Level 2 EV charger. Once the charger is installed, you’ll be able to simply plug in your EV and start charging.

Level 2 EV Charging: Tips and Tricks

When using a Level 2 EV charger, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind to ensure maximum efficiency and safety:

  • Use the charger in a well-ventilated area to avoid overheating
  • Avoid charging during peak electricity hours to save on costs
  • Use a timer to schedule charging during off-peak hours
  • Keep the charger clean and free of debris
  • Use a smart EV charging station for added convenience and control

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Level 2 EV Charging

When it comes to charging your electric vehicle (EV), there are several options available. One of the most popular options is level 2 EV charging. This type of charging requires a dedicated power supply, which can be installed in your home or business. It offers several advantages over other types of charging, including faster charging times and greater convenience. However, there are also some disadvantages to consider. Here is a breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages of a level 2 EV charger: 

Advantages:

  • Faster charging times: Level 2 EV charging is faster than level 1 charging, which uses a standard 110-volt outlet. With level 2 charging, you can charge your EV in half the time or less.
  • Greater convenience: Level 2 EV charging allows you to charge your EV at home or at your place of business, which eliminates the need to search for public charging stations.
  • Smart options: Some level 2 EV chargers come with smart features that allow you to manage multiple vehicles and track usage.
  • Affordable upfront pricing: Power Shift offers level 2 EV charger installation at an affordable price for residential and commercial customers in Sydney.

Disadvantages:

  • Higher upfront cost: Installing a level 2 EV charger can be more expensive than level 1 charging, as it requires a dedicated power supply.
  • Greater installation complexity: Installing a level 2 EV charger can be more complex than level 1 charging, as it requires a professional electrician to install it.

Choosing the Right EV Charger: Level 1 vs. Level 2 vs. Level 3

When it comes to charging your electric vehicle, you have several options to choose from. The most common types of EV chargers are level 1, level 2, and level 3. Each one has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and it’s important to understand the differences before choosing the right one for you.

Level 1 chargers are the most basic option and require only a standard 10 amp power plug. They are great for PHEVs (plug-in hybrid electric vehicles) or as a backup option to have in the trunk of your electric car. However, the charging speed is relatively slow and it may take several hours to fully charge your car.

Level 2 chargers are a step up from level 1 and require dedicated power supplies. They come with outputs from 3.7 kW up to 22 kW and offer faster charging times. These are the most popular choice for residential and commercial spaces, as they provide a convenient way to charge your car overnight. Smart options are also available to manage multiple vehicles and track usage.

Level 3 chargers, also known as DC rapid chargers, are the fastest option and are designed for public spaces such as petrol stations and motorways. They use a 480-volt outlet and can have an output of up to 350 kW and can take as little as 30 minutes to fully charge an electric vehicle.

. They provide an ultra-fast charge and are crucial for the successful roll-out of EVs to make longer trips easy. However, they require large amounts of power and may not be practical for residential or commercial spaces.

Power Shift Can Install & Repair Level 2 EV Chargers

Power Shift specialises in Level 2 EV charger installation and repair for Sydney residential and commercial customers. Our expert electricians provide reliable service at affordable prices, with a commitment to quality workmanship. We offer custom solutions, expert knowledge and the best products on the market. Contact us for a free quote and onsite project consultation.