Brief
- Level 2 EV chargers deliver more power to EV batteries, charging them significantly faster than a Level 1 charger.
- Level 2 chargers are recommended for people who drive EVs daily, own multiple EVs, or regularly need to charge their vehicle quickly.
- You’ll need a dedicated circuit and a 200-amp panel to power a Level 2 EV charger at home.
- Thermo Direct can install a Level 2 charger in your home in just a few hours.
As electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular, people are investing in high-end home charging stations in increasing numbers. In this guide, we’re looking at the benefits of installing a Level 2 EV charger in your home, explaining the home power needs these chargers have, and going over everything you can expect when you hire a pro electrician to install one in your space.
What Is a Level 2 EV Charger?
A Level 2 EV charger is a 240-volt system capable of fully charging an EV in anywhere from one to eight hours, depending on battery capacity. Unlike a Level 1 charger, which plugs into a standard wall outlet, a Level 2 system relies on a 240V, 30-80 amp dedicated circuit. This means they require specialized installation.
Is a Level 2 EV Charger Worth It for Your Home?
Are the Level 2 EV charger benefits worth the cost? We always recommend choosing a Level 2 charger versus a Level 1 charger if you:
- Drive an electric or hybrid vehicle daily.
- Own multiple EVs.
- Own a full battery-electric vehicle (BEV).
- Need to be able to charge your EV much faster than a Level 1 charger allows.
In addition to the immediate benefits of charging your EV, Level 2 chargers can also help boost your home’s value thanks to the rising popularity of electric vehicles. This makes them an even better investment for electric vehicle owners.
Benefits of Installing a Level 2 EV Charger at Home
What are the benefits of Level 2 home EV charger installation? These chargers are superior to Level 1 chargers in almost every way, including:
Charging speed
The number one benefit of a Level 2 EV charger is the increased electric vehicle home charging speed. A Level 1 charger offers about 4 miles of range per hour of charging, while a Level 2 charger provides 20 to 40 miles per hour. This means a Level 2 charger can easily charge a battery to full overnight. This improved speed also means it’s easy to top off your battery throughout the day or keep multiple vehicles charged with one charger.
Improved efficiency
When you install a Level 2 charger in your garage, you’re not just charging your car faster. These systems offer around 90% energy efficiency, compared to about 80% for Level 1 chargers. This means you’ll ultimately spend less on energy when charging your EVs.
Charging scheduling features
Many Level 2 chargers offer smart, Wi-Fi-enabled scheduling and remote control, offering greater control over your energy use and ultimately reducing power costs.
Home value boost
In many cities, a Level 2 residential EV charger installation is considered a major selling point for a home. As EV use continues to rise, we expect to see this investment continue to yield a solid return when it’s time to sell the home.
EV compatibility
Level 2 EV chargers are compatible with all electric vehicles that use either J1772 or NACS connectors, which are the most common. This means a single charger can power almost any electric vehicle on the market.
Can Your Home Support a Level 2 EV Charger?
Level 2 chargers are great, but installing an EV charger at home requires a lot of power. These chargers require their own dedicated 240V circuit, similar to a clothes dryer or an oven. They also require enough capacity from your home’s electrical panel — if you don’t already have one, you’ll likely need to upgrade to a 200-amp panel to support a Level 2 charger. This prevents electrical overload and the many hazards that come with it, including outlet problems, flickering lights, or even an electrical fire.
What Factors Affect the Cost of Installing a Level 2 EV Charger?
The main factors that will determine the cost of a Level 2 EV charger for home use are the distance between the electrical panel and the charger, the capacity upgrades needed, permit fees (if applicable), and the labor rates charged by your EV charger installation electrician. You’ll also pay more for chargers with networking capabilities and other smart features.
Electrical Requirements for Installing a Home EV Charger
Level 2 EV chargers require a dedicated 240-volt circuit providing 30 to 80 amps to the charger. They’ll only work with a 200-amp main electrical panel, which needs either 6 or 8-gauge wiring. To ensure your safety, it’s vital to have your home inspected and to have the installation completed by a trained electrical service provider.
What to Expect During EV Charger Installation
When you install a home EV charger, the process begins with an electrician inspecting your home and confirming your system has the capacity to power the charger. If needed, they’ll perform a panel upgrade to ensure the charger gets the power it needs safely. Your electrician will also pull permits on your behalf as necessary, and then install a dedicated circuit and the charger. They’ll also thoroughly test the system for reliability and safety after installation, generally completing the entire installation in just two to three hours.
Why Homeowners Choose Thermo Direct for EV Charger Installation
Why do homeowners work with the team at Thermo Direct for EV charger installation? A quick look through our reviews shows that we’ve earned a reputation for quick, reliable, quality work, whether it’s a simple charger replacement or a full-scale panel upgrade and charger installation. We pride ourselves on outstanding work, giving homeowners peace of mind that their new charger is ready to run safely, efficiently, and consistently.
Financing Options for EV Charger Installation
EV chargers offer a great return on investment over time, but there’s no denying they can be a big upfront expense. To help, we turn big install fees into smaller, monthly payments with flexible, affordable financing options. Plus, we regularly offer coupons on services like EV charger installation, helping to make these systems even more accessible.
Service Areas for EV Charger Installation
Thermo Direct installs EV chargers across the Raleigh area, including:
- Raleigh (27601, 27603, 27607)
- Cary (27511, 27513)
- Apex (27502)
- Holly Springs (27540)
- Wake Forest (27587)
Schedule Your Level 2 EV Charger Installation With Thermo Direct
Ready to charge your EV in a fraction of the time and spend less money on your energy bills? At Thermo Direct, we install countless EV chargers in the Raleigh area each year, with an outstanding track record of quality services and reliable systems. For more information or to get a quote on a Level 2 EV charger installation, contact us today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you charge an electric car with a regular outlet?
You can charge an EV with a regular outlet using a Level 1 EV charger, which comes with the purchase of the EV. However, these chargers only offer about 4 miles of range per hour of charging, which means they may not be the best choice for daily EV drivers.
Do all electric cars support Level 2 charging?
All fully battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) support Level 2 charging. All EVs sold in North America use either J1772 or NACS (Tesla) connections, which support Level 2 charging.
Can a licensed electrician install a Level 2 charger in my garage?
Yes, you need a licensed electrician to install a Level 2 charger in your garage. Because of the high voltage and amperage of these systems, EV charger installation must be completed by a licensed electrician.
Is home EV charging cheaper than public charging stations?
It’s much cheaper to charge your EV at home than in public. Public stations cost two to three times more than home charging, especially during peak hours. Once your EV charger has paid for itself, you’ll be saving money every time you charge your car at home.
Should I hire an electrician for EV charger installation?
Yes, you need to hire an electrician to install an EV charger in your home. It’s illegal in most of the country to install these systems without the necessary electrician credentials.
