If you’ve recently switched to an electric vehicle, you’ll want to ensure it’s always charged and ready to use. While any electric car can be charged with a simple cord and standard outlet, this method may not give you the convenience and power you need for your everyday commute. To determine which EV charger is best for your Phoenix home and personal driving needs, the expert electricians from Penguin are here to discuss the three different levels of chargers and the benefits of home installation.
How Traffic & Heat Effects Electric Vehicles
Summers in Phoenix can get extremely hot, and your electric vehicle may be affected by this heat. As the temperature of your battery increases, its charging rate slows down to prevent overheating. This reduced charging speed can occur throughout the summer months, inconveniencing drivers. In addition, traffic and poor road conditions can reduce your EV’s range by up to 10%, requiring you to charge more often. That’s why choosing the right EV charger from the start is so important.
The Differences Between Levels 1, 2, and 3 Chargers
Level 1 EVSE Chargers
A Level 1 EV charger is the most basic on the market. It consists of a cord that plugs into a standard 120V outlet and requires no additional installation or labor to use. While these chargers are simple to use, they don’t offer very fast charging. With only slightly over 3 miles of range per hour of charging, it can take up to 24 hours to fully charge your vehicle. For this reason, a Level 1 charger is best for owners who drive very little each day or don’t use their EV as their primary vehicle.
Level 2 EVSE Chargers
With a Level 2 charger, you get faster charging and increased convenience. These chargers require professional installation as they must be plugged into a 240V outlet. In return, you get anywhere from 20 to 30 miles of range per hour of charging, leaving you with a fully charged battery overnight.
In addition, these smart systems are equipped with software that allows you to adjust power levels and delay charging until non-prime hours, giving you maximum power and flexibility. For homeowners who use an EV as a primary driving vehicle or have long daily commutes, a Level 2 charger is an excellent choice.
Level 3 EVSE Chargers
A super powerful Level 3 charger offers unmatched charging power with a full battery charge in under an hour. These systems, however, aren’t meant for residential properties. These chargers are often found on commercial properties because of their high cost and electrical requirements for direct current.
Benefits of EV Charger Installation
There are many benefits of installing an EV charger in your home, including:
- Convenience: If you’ve made the switch from a gas to an electric vehicle, you’ll want reliable access to fast charging so that your vehicle is always ready with the range you need.
- Increased property value: With the popularity of EVs on the rise, a home charging station is desirable and can increase the value of your home.
- Reduced charging cost: A Level 2 charger can be automated only to charge off-peak hours to save energy and will mean fewer trips to a Level 3 charger, which will cost money to use.
- Longer battery life: Since your battery will wear out over time, reducing the use of public charging stations can help avoid additional wear and tear that could shorten your battery’s life span.
Choose Penguin for EV Charging Station Installation in Phoenix, AZ
For the ultimate convenience when owning an EV vehicle, trust Penguin for superior EV charging installation as part of our comprehensive electrical services in Phoenix. Our licensed and insured technicians have the experience to install your EV charger properly. We’re committed to providing every customer with the VIP experience.
Call (480) 550-9943 now to schedule EV charger installation services for your Phoenix home!