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Level 1 chargers EV Chargers

Level 1 EV chargers

Level 1 EV chargers were the first residential EV chargers on the market, introduced around 2010 with the launch of plug-in hybrid vehicles. These chargers provide a sufficiently fast charge for plug-in hybrids, which typically have smaller lithium-ion batteries, allowing for a complete charge in less than 2 hours.
One of the key benefits of Level 1 EV chargers is their compatibility with any regular 3-pin household outlet, offering complete charging flexibility at home, on the go (mobile EV charging), or at destinations like Airbnb, friends’, or family homes.
Level 1 EV chargers work at 110 to 120 voltage ranges, which again creates a lot of flexibility in where and when you can charge compared to a 240 volt level 2 EV charger.

What Kind of Level 1 EV Charger Do I Need?

Nearly every car manufacturer now sells electric vehicles or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. If you have a plug-in hybrid or a pure electric with a smaller battery (less than 50 kWh), it is best to have a level 1 EV charging option.   The level 1 EV charging will ensure your battery stays topped-up and allow you to charge up when on the go.
A Level 1 EV charger is also a great backup option for any EV or PHEV for the following reasons:
  • Level 2 charger issues: If your Level 2 charger has a problem, a Level 1 charger can serve as a backup.
  • Electrical panel issues: In case of tripping, power loss, or wiring issues, a Level 1 charger can provide a temporary solution.
  • Destination charging: At locations without EV charging infrastructure, a Level 1 charger can provide 60-80 miles of range over 24 hours.
  • Peace of mind: Having a backup charger in your trunk ensures you’re always prepared for emergencies.

Types of Level 1 EV Chargers

The only legally, electrically safe type of EV chargers are level 1 12-amp EV chargers.  This is because the amperage should be below 15 amps so as not to trip the breaker or create a fire risk.
Our AEFA EV chargers and other reputable residential EV charging companies only sell 12-amp level 1 EV Chargers.  Level 1 15-amp and 16-amp EV chargers are dangerous and can be highly inconvenient.  Here is a link on our Amazon listing to our NEMA 5-15 level 1 EV chargers.
A 15 amp or 16-amp EV charger is against electrical code.  A 16-amp EV charger, creates a potential risk of overheating (and a fire risk) or circuit overload if not used properly, especially when plugged into a standard household outlet since is not designed for continuous high-power loads of an EV charger. A 15-amp or 16-amp EV is also a higher than the power rating for the NEMA 5-15 plug (your standard residential outlet)
There are now two types of level 1 EV chargers
  • J1722 Level 1 EV chargers Known as Type 1, J1772 or SAE J1772 type.  The J plug or type 1 connector is known after its international standard IEC 62196 type 1.
  • NACS Level 1 EV chargers These are level 1 EV chargers historically known as Tesla chargers.  The Tesla charging port (NACS) is now slowly being adopted by some EV manufacturers to replace the J1772 type

J1772 connector - Connector type and charging rates

NEMA 5-15 Plug Level 1 EV Charger

The AEFA EV Charger is a Level 1, 120-volt EV charger designed for residential use, backup charging, or mobile charging. Key features include:
  • Compliant Power: 12-amp charge output to ensure compatibility with home outlets.
  • Active Ground Fault Detection: Flashes red if a grounding fault is detected.
  • Built-in Circuit Breaker: Stops charging if current leakage is detected.

At Home
At Work

Capabilities of Our Level 1, 120-volt Residential EV Chargers

We designed our AEFA EV chargers to be an easy to use, level 1 EV charger for residential EV charging.
Adjustable Current: Change the power level from 6, 8, 10, or 15 amps to your desired level 1 EV Charging
Safety:  Our AEFA EV Chargers come with a list of safety features.  Our EV Chargers are water-resistant, UV-resistant, and lightning-proof. They also have overvoltage and undervoltage protection. The main feature is our level 1 EV chargers run at a safe amperage for home outlets.
Easy Set-up:   The EV Charger can simply be plugged into the wall and be ready to charge.  Alternatively, you can mount in the provided bracket and have the level 1 Charger wall mounted.
Flexible Length:  Our chargers come with 25-foot or 32-foot cables. You no longer need to stretch cables or unsafely use an extension cord. With the flexible length we offer, you can even charge your vehicle in the driveway.
Delayed Charging: Change the time when your EV charge starts.  The delayed charging button allows you to dela charge for up to 10 hours so you can charge vehicle during off-peak and super-off-peak hours.
Portable and Protected: Take this charger on the road with you. It’s lightweight and comes with a cable cover and nozzle cover with a magnetic seal. The nozzle cover converts between reflective and non-reflective to protect against all weather conditions. The one-size-fits-all cable protector prevents damage from garage doors.
Simplicity: This Level 1 charger requires no programming or hardwiring, so you can use it right away. The LCD touchscreen shows the charge status and charge mode. It provides easy-to-understand instructions.

FAQs

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Frequently Asked Questions about level 1 charging
Find clear solutions to your questions about compatibility, installation, and using EV chargers. If you don’t find the answer you need, feel free to contact us.
Do I need a Level 1 EV Charger?
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Yes, a Level 1 EV charger is a versatile option for all EV owners, especially as a backup or for mobile charging.

What is a Level 1 EV Charger compatible with?
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Level 1 chargers work with any regular 3-pin household outlet, making them ideal for EV owners without access to high-voltage outlets.

How many miles of range will a Level 1 EV Charger provide?
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A Level 1 EV charger provides 4-8 miles of range per hour of charging, depending on the vehicle’s battery size and weight.

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