How to Recognize Which Ones Are Right Electric Charging Types
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Though many people are beginning to convert to using electric cars, the current infrastructure still doesn’t support this trend. This means that if you’re considering buying one, you will have to think about how you’re going to charge it. There are some types of charging stations available for electric cars. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages so it’s important to know which one is the best for you before making your purchase.
When it comes to electric charging types, you should first know that each type is not the same. In fact, each type has its own benefits. Here, we will go over a few of them and how to recognize which ones are right for you.
Electric Charging Types
You may find it useful to understand what each one means. There are three types of public charging stations: Level 1, Level 2. Each of these charging methods offers different amounts of power, and you should look for them based on the type of electric vehicle you own.
The two levels of charging stations are Level 1 and level 2. Both of them provide the same amount of power. The two types of charging stations are compatible with each other. Moreover, some cities have installed Level 2 charging stations.
When it comes to charging an electric vehicle, the different types of EVs have different charging types. The first kind is called Level 1 and is designed for short-distance commuters. It is Level 2 for larger EVs.
If you’re looking for a charging station in your area, look for the type that can charge your vehicle. You can choose between Level 1 and level 2 charging stations. This is the most affordable type, while the other two types require a higher voltage for the same amount of time.
Level 1 Charging
Level 1 charging is the most basic level, and it provides electricity to your vehicle. This type of electric car charging is not ideal for most drivers. If you’re using an EV, you’ll need to charge it at home first, and then you’ll need a charging station to do so.
Level 2 Charging
The next level of charging is Level 2 if you’re using a conventional 110V wall outlet. For a level 1 charger, you plug it into a standard 110V wall outlet. This will supply electricity at a rate of four to five miles per hour.
While you might be surprised to learn that some charging stations can charge your EV faster than others, it’s important to know that the power delivered by Level 2 chargers is significantly lower than the current output of the same type. For instance, a level 2 charger requires a 100-amp 208-240V dedicated circuit and a heavy supply line from the breaker box.
This type of charger can be used in single-family homes, but for most people, a 40-amp charger will work just fine. It can deliver 9.6 kW. In contrast, a 48-amp unit can provide up to 11.5% more electric range in an hour.
Both types require a heavy-gauge wire and are hardwired to comply with NEC codes. They are also considerably more expensive than a 40-amp model but offer marginally faster charging.
Level 2 chargers are faster and can deliver up to 80 amps of power. These are intended for specific use vehicles and are not universally compatible with all EVs. But it is a good option if you own a fleet of vehicles.
They are more expensive than Level 3 charging stations, but they do offer more benefits, including faster charging. And they are usually installed in workplaces and apartment communities. The downside is that they don’t work as fast as Level 1 chargers.
DC Fast Charger
The other charging station is the DC fast charger. It works by providing up to 60 kW of power and takes around an hour to charge a battery. However, you need to know that this is not the best option for your home or business.
If you use a standard 110-V outlet, you will need a higher-capacity charger. In general, Level 1 charging is the slowest. Nevertheless, it will do just fine if you have a plugged-in car that requires charging on a regular basis.
It can charge more quickly, but it will take more time. While both types are acceptable for EVs, Level 3 is recommended for longer distances. You can find a Level 2 charging station in your neighborhood if you need it.
Networked chargers are available in commercial settings. Some people choose to use them at home, but they can also be found at a public location. In multi-unit dwellings, Level 1 chargers are typically installed in single-family homes, while networked chargers are commonly found in apartments and workplaces. This type of electric charging station is also available in apartment buildings. These are often the best options if you want to charge your electric car at a public location.
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