Fast or Level 2 Charging at Home? Learn the Pros and Cons

Electric vehicle ownership continues to grow, so more homeowners are looking at setting up home charging to keep their vehicles powered. The common question usually winds up being a choice between fast chargers or Level 2 chargers. Both methods have their advantages and possible downsides. Knowing the pros and cons of each empowers an informed decision.

Level 2 Charging

Level 2 chargers are typically more affordable in terms of the necessary electrical upgrades and initial equipment you need. If you already have a 240-volt outlet, such as the ones used for appliances, your home might already be prepared. Level 2 charging is gentle on EV batteries, slowing down the degradation that happens with rapid, high-power charging. If you usually recharge overnight, this works well. Level 2 charging is slower, but it can add 20 to 30 miles of range every hour. You can charge overnight and have a nearly or totally full battery when you get up.

The longer charging time does take more hours than fast charging. That might not be an issue overnight for daily top-ups, but it’s very inconvenient for rapid recharging or traveling long distances. The same limitations might be an issue if you have high daily mileage requirements.

Fast Charging

The biggest benefit of fast charging is speed. It might recharge a battery from a 20% level up to 80% in less than an hour. For quick battery top-ups, this speed proves convenient for unexpected trips and busy schedules. Fast charging is also beneficial for range flexibility. If you travel frequently or live in an area with limited public charging, having a fast charger at home can prove very advantageous.

While convenient for quick power, fast-charging units have potential downsides. They are far more expensive compared to Level 2 chargers, often costing thousands of dollars. They might possibly even cost more in electricity when charging. Doing fast charging on a regular basis can also reduce the long-term vitality of EV batteries because the process generates heat that might degrade battery cells over time. Fast chargers also need a high-power setup that might require electrical system upgrades to your home, adding to the installation costs.

Cost-Effectiveness or Convenience?

Most EV owners opt for Level 2 chargers for affordable and battery-friendly technology useful with overnight charging, but some do fast chargers to get quicker boosts for urgent refueling. If you have questions about what’s right for your Ann Arbor, MI residence, consult the experts of Current Electrical Systems about EV chargers.

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