A Level 2 EV Charger is the most popular and practical home charging solution for electric vehicles.
Operating at 240 volts (or 208V in commercial buildings), Level 2 charging dramatically shortens charging time
and provides the performance today’s EV drivers need.
A Level 2 EV Charger uses a 240-volt AC circuit (similar to electric dryers and ovens).
It offers a major performance upgrade compared to Level 1 charging, providing 4–10× faster charging speeds.
Typical Technical Specifications
Parameter
Typical Value
Voltage
208–240V AC
Current
16A, 24A, 32A, 40A, 48A
Power Output
3.5 kW / 7.68 kW / 11.5 kW
Connector
J1772 (Tesla requires adapter)
Charging Speed
~12–40 miles of range per hour
Level 2 is the standard for residential EV charging across North America.
2. How Fast Is Level 2 Charging?
Charging speed depends on the EV’s onboard charger and the charging station’s power output.
Typical Level 2 charging performance:
3.5 kW (16A) → 12–14 miles of range per hour
7.68 kW (32A) → 25–30 miles per hour
11.5 kW (48A) → 35–44 miles per hour
For most EV owners, Level 2 charging ensures a full battery each morning even after long daily driving.
3. Who Should Use a Level 2 Charger?
Full battery-electric vehicle (BEV) owners
Drivers traveling more than 30 miles per day
Households with multiple EV drivers
Owners of long-range EVs (60–120 kWh batteries)
Anyone wanting fast and reliable home charging
4. Advantages of Level 2 EV Chargers
4.1 Dramatically Faster Charging
Up to 10× faster charging compared to Level 1.
4.2 Supports Smart Features
Wi-Fi connectivity
Mobile app controls
Scheduled off-peak charging
Energy monitoring
Load balancing for dual chargers
4.3 More Efficient for Large Batteries
Modern EVs with 70–120 kWh batteries charge far more effectively on Level 2 equipment.
4.4 Ideal for Daily Use
Level 2 charging replenishes driving range quickly, even with multiple trips per day.
5. Level 2 Charger Power Levels Explained
Level 2 chargers come in several power levels to match household electrical capacity and charging needs.
Power Level
Current
Charging Speed
Best For
3.5 kW
16A
~12–14 miles/hr
PHEVs, low daily mileage
7.68 kW
32A
~25–30 miles/hr
Most EV households
11.5 kW
48A
~35–44 miles/hr
Long-range EVs & high usage
The EV’s onboard charger determines the maximum AC charging speed — not the wall charger alone.
6. Electrical Requirements for Level 2 Chargers
6.1 Dedicated Circuit Required
Level 2 chargers require a dedicated circuit rated for the appropriate amperage:
16A charger → 20A breaker
32A charger → 40A breaker
40A charger → 50A breaker
48A charger → 60A breaker
6.2 Professional Installation Recommended
Due to high continuous currents, installation should follow NEC guidelines and be performed by a licensed electrician.
6.3 Hardwired vs Plug-in
Plug-in (NEMA 14-50) – easy replacement
Hardwired – better for high-power (48A) chargers
7. J1772 and Tesla Compatibility
All Level 2 chargers in North America use the J1772 standard plug.
Tesla vehicles can use Level 2 chargers with a J1772 → Tesla adapter.
Compatibility Summary
Non-Tesla EVs → J1772 (direct use)
Tesla EVs → J1772 charger + Tesla adapter
8. Level 1 vs Level 2 Comparison
Feature
Level 1
Level 2
Voltage
120V
240V
Power
1.2–1.9 kW
3.5–11.5 kW
Installation
No
Yes
Charging Speed
3–5 miles/hr
12–40 miles/hr
Best For
PHEVs, light use
Most EV owners
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a Level 2 charger?
If you rely on an EV as your primary vehicle, Level 2 is highly recommended.
How long does Level 2 take to fully charge an EV?
Most EVs can fully recharge overnight in 6–10 hours.
Is Level 2 charging safe?
Yes—when installed correctly with a dedicated circuit.
Can all EVs use Level 2?
Yes. Every EV supports Level 2 AC charging.
Shop Level 2 EV Chargers
Discover reliable Level 2 chargers for home installation, including 16A, 32A, 40A, and 48A models:
