Are All EV Charging Stations Made Equal?

Have you ever pulled up to a gas station or business and wondered about those strange boxes that look like they’re from the future? They look like a cross between a gas pump and a water heater with hoses. Those futuristic boxes are charging stations where EV owners can park and recharge their cars’ batteries. 

Like electric vehicles themselves, they are not all created equal. If you’re considering investing in an EV or installing a charging station at your commercial business, it’s important that you understand the types and distinct differences between each. 

Differences between car charging stations

Also referred to as electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), EV charging stations are classified according to their data transmissions and charging speeds. Some require professional installation, while others are simply plugged into a regular wall outlet. 

EV charging station differences

Electric vehicle chargers come in three levels. The fourth level, known as “Superchargers,” are only compatible with Teslas and can fully charge a battery in 30 minutes. 

Level 1

Level 1 EV chargers are most commonly used by homeowners for charging their vehicles overnight. They do not require professional installation and can be plugged directly into a standard wall outlet. Using a 120 V AC plug, Level 1 chargers take the longest to fully charge a car’s battery. 

Level 2

Level 2 chargers are used in both commercial and residential settings. Unlike Level 1 chargers, they cannot be plugged into a standard outlet. Commercial chargers use a 208 V plug and residential chargers use a 240 V plug. Both residential and commercial units require professional installation and can be integrated into a solar panel system. 

Level 2 EVSEs deliver between 10 and 60 miles of range per hour, as opposed to the 2-5 miles of range the Level 1 delivers. At this rate, an electric vehicle’s battery is fully charged in 2 hours or less. 

Level 3 

Level 3 chargers, also known as CHAdeMO charging stations or DC Fast Chargers, are the fastest chargers available to non-Tesla models. At a charging rate of 60 to 100 miles of range per charging hour, DC Fast Chargers can fully charge an electric car in as little as 20 minutes. 

DC Fast Chargers require an experienced professional and very specialized equipment to install and maintain. As a result, these high-powered chargers are generally only found in industrial and commercial settings. 

Many hybrid and all-electric vehicles cannot be charged with a Level 3 charger.

Are you considering installing a charging station at your home or business? Whether you need your commercial building, residence, or oilfield services, JB Electric LLC has you covered. Our experienced team can help you understand the differences between car charging stations and determine which level best fits your needs. Contact us today to learn how we can get you set up for the future.

Categorised in: Electric Vehicle Charging Stations