When you first look into charging your electric vehicle at home, you’ll quickly realize that a Rexing Level 2 EV charger is a fantastic option for getting more charge into your car much faster than the standard Level 1 charger that usually comes with your EV. It’s like upgrading from a garden hose to a fire hose for your car’s battery! We’re going to break down everything you need to know about these chargers, from what they are and how fast they charge, to what they cost, how to install them, and even how to keep them running smoothly. By the end of this, you’ll have a clear picture of why a Level 2 charger, and specifically a Rexing, might be the perfect fit for your EV lifestyle, giving you peace of mind and more miles when you need them.

So, what exactly is a Level 2 EV charger? Think of it as your primary home charging solution. Unlike a Level 1 charger, which just plugs into a regular 120-volt wall outlet like the one for your toaster, a Level 2 charger uses a 240-volt AC electricity connection. This is the same kind of power you’d use for big appliances like an electric dryer or oven. Because it’s running on a higher voltage, it can deliver significantly more power to your EV, typically between 6 and 19 kilowatts kW.

This bump in power means a huge difference in how quickly your car charges. While a Level 1 charger might only add about 3-5 miles of range per hour, a Level 2 charger can give you anywhere from 10 to 73 miles of range per hour. That’s enough to fully charge most EVs overnight. For example, a car with an 80 kWh battery, 50% charged, using a 7.6 kW Level 2 charger would take about 5.26 hours to fully charge. If you have a larger battery like in a Hummer EV, you might still need around 24.5 hours from empty to full with a Level 2 charger, but for many popular EVs like a Chevy Bolt, it could be around 7.5 hours.

Most Level 2 chargers use an industry-standard SAE J1772 connector, often called a “J Plug,” which works with almost every electric vehicle and plug-in hybrid in North America, except for Teslas, which usually need an adapter.

Why Choose a Rexing Level 2 EV Charger?

Rexing has made a name for itself by offering portable Level 2 EV chargers that are designed to be both effective and user-friendly. When you’re looking at different options, Rexing’s offerings often stand out for their practicality and features.

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Key Features of Rexing Level 2 EV Chargers

Rexing’s Level 2 chargers are generally portable, which is a huge plus. This means you can easily store it in your garage or even take it with you in your trunk for charging on the go. They typically come with a NEMA 14-50 plug, which is common for Level 2 charging and can deliver up to 32 amps at 240 volts. This means you can expect your car to charge significantly faster – Rexing claims their 32A charger is up to 2.5 times faster than a 16A Level 2 charger and 5 times faster than a 16A Level 1 charger.

Here are some features you’ll often find in a Rexing Level 2 EV charger:

• Universal Compatibility: Most Rexing chargers use the standard J1772 charging protocol, making them compatible with almost all electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids in the United States, aside from Teslas, which require a J1772 adapter.
• Decent Cable Length: A 17-foot or even a 25-foot cable is usually included, giving you good flexibility for parking in your driveway or garage.
• Real-time Charging Information: Many models feature an LED indicator and a built-in interface screen. This is super handy because it displays real-time updates on things like charging voltage, amperage, wattage, time, and how many kilowatt-hours kWh have been charged. No more guessing games!
• Durability and Safety: Rexing chargers are built with high-grade, waterproof ABS plastic, often designed to be durable and weather-resistant, able to operate in temperatures ranging from -30°C -22°F to 50°C 122°F. They also include essential safety features like overvoltage, overheat, and overcurrent protection, ensuring a safe charging experience for both your car and your home.
• Compact Design: Being portable, these chargers are usually small enough to be easily stored away when not in use.
• Warranty: Rexing products typically come with an 18-month warranty, which gives you some peace of mind.

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Rexing Level 2 EV Charger Reviews

When you look at reviews for Rexing Level 2 chargers, a common theme pops up: people really appreciate the fast charging capability and the reasonable price point compared to some OEM Original Equipment Manufacturer chargers. Many users report seeing good charging speeds, often around 22-24 miles per hour, with some even hitting 26-27 miles per hour.

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• Ease of Use: Many reviewers love that you can just plug it in and let it charge without needing to mess with apps or complex settings. The LED indicators and display screen are often cited as very useful for quickly checking charging status.
• Portability: The compact size makes it easy to store or take with you.
• Build Quality: People often describe the charger as “well-built” and “sturdy,” able to handle various weather conditions, even if installed outside. Some reviewers specifically note that the wire doesn’t get excessively hot, which is a common concern with generic chargers.
• Value: It’s often seen as a good investment due to its efficiency and build quality for the price.

However, some minor concerns have been noted, like one user expressing dislike for having to register the warranty through Facebook. Overall, the sentiment is positive, with users finding it a reliable and efficient alternative to more expensive options.

Level 2 EV Charger Time to Charge

The charging time for your EV on a Level 2 charger isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. it depends on a few key factors:

1. Your EV’s Battery Size: Bigger batteries naturally take longer to fill up. EV battery sizes can range from around 30 kWh to over 200 kWh.
2. The Charger’s Power Output: Level 2 chargers can deliver between 3 kW and 19.2 kW. A Rexing 32A charger, operating at 240V, provides about 7.68 kW 32A * 240V = 7680W or 7.68 kW. The higher the wattage, the faster the charge.
3. Your Car’s Onboard Charger: This is a crucial, often overlooked factor! Your car has an internal charger that converts the AC power from the wall to DC power for the battery. If your car’s onboard charger can only handle, say, 6.6 kW, then even if you plug into a 10 kW Level 2 charger, you’ll only get 6.6 kW.
4. Starting State of Charge SOC: Charging from 20% to 80% is usually faster than charging the last 20% from 80% to 100% because the charging speed often slows down as the battery gets fuller to protect its health.
5. Ambient Temperature: Extreme cold can slow down charging speeds.

General Estimates:
For most EVs, a Level 2 charger will take 4 to 24 hours to fully charge from empty. Many can go from empty to full overnight, typically in 3-8 hours. For instance, a Chevrolet Bolt EV might take about 7.5 hours for a full charge using a 9.6 kW NEMA 14-50 setup. However, a plug-in hybrid with a smaller battery like a Prius Prime could fully charge in about two hours. Public Level 2 stations can often charge a vehicle in about 4-6 hours.

With a Rexing 32A Level 2 charger, many users report getting a good charge within 6-8 hours from near empty, a significant improvement over the 22+ hours you might see with a Level 1 charger.

Level 2 EV Charger Cost

When budgeting for a Level 2 EV charger, you need to consider two main things: the cost of the charger itself and the cost of installation. Rexing M2 Dash Cam: The Real Talk from Reddit and Beyond

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Cost of the Charger Unit

Rexing Level 2 portable chargers are often quite competitive. For example, a Rexing J1772 Level 2 NEMA 14-50 Portable EV Charger can be found for around $230 to $320, especially when on sale. This is often cheaper than official automaker chargers, like those from GM.

Other popular Level 2 chargers can range from around $400 to $800, with some Tesla Wall Connectors starting at about $475 though a Universal Wall Connector for all EVs is around $580. The price can vary based on features like smart capabilities, cable length, and maximum amperage. Simpler, non-smart units tend to be less expensive.

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Level 2 EV Charger Installation Cost

This is where things can get a bit more variable. The cost to install a Level 2 charger can range anywhere from $200 to $4,500, with a national average often cited around $1,200 to $2,500, including labor, materials, and the charger itself. Mastering Your Rexing Dash Camera Mount: A Complete Guide to Installation and Placement

Here’s what influences the installation cost:

• Existing Electrical Setup: If you already have a 240-volt outlet like a NEMA 14-50 or 6-50 in your garage and it’s properly rated for the charger’s amperage, installation might be as simple as plugging it in, and the cost will be minimal just the charger itself.
• New Outlet Installation: If you need a new 240-volt outlet installed, and your current electrical panel can handle the extra load, the cost could be anywhere from $250 to $800. This often involves running a new dedicated 240-volt circuit from your electrical panel to the charger location.
• Electrical Panel Upgrades: This is the big one. If your home’s electrical panel is old, full, or doesn’t have enough capacity to support a new 50-amp circuit, you might need a panel upgrade to 200 amps. This can cost a significant $1,500 to $2,500. Sometimes, installing a subpanel in the garage $600-$1,200 or a load management device $400-$800 can avoid a full panel upgrade.
• Distance from Panel: The further the charger location is from your electrical panel, the more wiring and labor will be required, increasing the cost.
• Indoor vs. Outdoor Installation: Installing the charger outside typically costs $100-$500 more due to the need for weatherproofing and potentially more complex conduit runs.
• Permits and Inspections: Most cities and local regulations require electrical permits for EV charger installations, which can cost $50-$300 and include mandatory inspections upon completion.
• Labor Rates: Electrician labor rates vary by region, but you can expect to pay around $150/hour in some areas.

While some plug-in Level 2 chargers might seem DIY-friendly, it’s strongly recommended to hire a licensed electrician for safety, compliance with electrical codes, and warranty protection. They can assess your home’s electrical capacity and ensure everything is installed correctly. Most installations take about 2 to 4 hours, but can be longer with complex wiring or panel upgrades.

Level 2 EV Charger Installation

Installing a Level 2 EV charger at home is a fantastic upgrade, providing convenience and faster charging. But it’s something you want to get right. Here’s what the process generally looks like:

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Step 1: Assess Your Home’s Electrical Needs

Before you buy anything, you need to figure out if your home can handle the extra electrical load. A Level 2 charger needs a dedicated 240-volt circuit. You’ll want to consult with a licensed electrician to evaluate your current electrical panel and determine if any upgrades are necessary. They’ll do a load calculation to ensure your setup is safe and won’t overload your breaker box. Rexing Dash Cam Manual V3: Your Ultimate Guide to Setup, Settings & Solving Common Issues

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Step 2: Choose a Location

Pick a spot that’s convenient and functional for your charging needs. Think about where you usually park your EV. Ideally, you want the charger to be easily accessible and relatively close to your electrical panel to minimize wiring costs. Consider if it will be indoors like in a garage or outdoors. Many chargers, including Rexing models, are built to be weather-resistant, but outdoor installations might incur extra costs for weatherproofing.

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Step 3: Get an Electrical Permit

Almost every local regulation requires you to secure an electrical permit before installing an EV charger. Your electrician can usually help you with this, and it ensures the installation meets local codes and safety standards. Expect permit fees to be anywhere from $50-$300.

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Step 4: Mount the Charger Hardware

Once you have the green light, your electrician will securely mount the charger on a wall or a pedestal. Make sure it’s at a height that’s comfortable for plugging and unplugging your vehicle.

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Step 5: Electrical Work

This is the most critical part, and why professional help is so important.

• For Plug-in Chargers like most Rexing models with a NEMA 14-50 plug: If a NEMA 14-50 outlet which looks like a large three or four-prong outlet, similar to a dryer outlet is already installed, the electrician will simply ensure it’s on a dedicated circuit and plug in the charger. If you don’t have one, the electrician will install a new 240V NEMA 14-50 or NEMA 6-50 outlet on a dedicated circuit.
  • NEMA 14-50: This is a very common and highly recommended plug type for Level 2 chargers, capable of delivering up to 50 amps though a 32A charger will only draw 32A. It’s a 4-prong plug and is often found in RV parks or used for electric ranges.
  • NEMA 6-50: Another common 240V, 50 amp plug, often used for welding equipment. It’s a 3-prong plug.
  • NEMA 14-30: Sometimes found as a dryer outlet, this 30-amp, 4-prong plug can also be used for Level 2 charging, but offers slightly slower speeds than a 14-50 or 6-50.
  • GFCI Breaker Note: Plugged-in Level 2 chargers often require a GFCI Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter breaker, which can sometimes lead to nuisance tripping. For maximum dependability, some professionals recommend a hardwired connection instead.
• For Hardwired Chargers: Some Level 2 chargers are designed to be hardwired directly into your home’s electrical system. This means no plug or outlet. the charger is permanently connected. This should only be done by licensed professionals. Hardwired chargers are often more secure and better suited for outdoor, weather-exposed installations.

Your electrician will run the necessary wiring, install the circuit breaker in your main panel, and make all the connections. They’ll then test the voltage and ensure everything is working safely.

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Should You DIY or Hire an Electrician?

While the idea of a “portable” charger might make you think “DIY,” when it comes to the electrical installation, especially for the dedicated 240-volt outlet, it’s definitely a job for a licensed and certified electrician. They understand local electrical codes, can safely work with high voltage, and ensure your home’s system can handle the load without issues. Trying to do complex electrical work yourself can be dangerous and could void insurance or warranties.

Level 2 EV Charger Maintenance

Keeping your Level 2 EV charger in tip-top shape is usually pretty easy. Most home chargers are designed to be durable and require minimal maintenance. Here are some simple tips to ensure it runs efficiently and safely for years:

1. Keep it Clean and Dry: This is probably the simplest and most important thing you can do. Regularly wipe down the charger unit, cable, and connector with a clean, damp cloth to remove any dirt, dust, or debris. If your charger is outside, consider covering it during harsh weather like heavy rain or snow to protect it from the elements. Make sure cooling vents are clear to prevent overheating.
2. Inspect Cables and Connectors Regularly: Get into the habit of visually checking the charging cable and the connector the J-plug for any signs of wear and tear. Look for:
   • Frayed cables, cuts, or kinks.
   • Loose connections.
   • Damage to the plug or connector.
   • Corrosion on the charging ports.
     Address any issues promptly. If you spot significant damage, contact the manufacturer or a qualified electrician for repair or replacement.
3. Proper Cable Management: Avoid letting the charging cable lie on the ground, especially in high-traffic areas where it could be driven over or stepped on. Coil the cable neatly after each use and hang it up on a hook or use the charger’s built-in cable management system. This reduces strain on the cable and extends its lifespan.
4. Check for Firmware Updates for Smart Chargers: If your Level 2 charger has smart features, Wi-Fi connectivity, or a companion app, check the manufacturer’s website periodically for firmware and software updates. These updates can improve performance, add new features, fix bugs, and enhance security. If your charger supports automatic updates, enable that feature.
5. Test Charging Speed and Performance: Occasionally, charge your EV and note the time it takes. If you notice a significant slowdown in charging speed, or if the charger isn’t performing as expected, it could indicate an issue with the power supply or the unit itself. Your charger’s display like the one on Rexing units can help you monitor real-time stats.
6. After Extreme Weather Events: If you’ve had a big storm, heavy winds, or significant temperature fluctuations, it’s a good idea to do a quick visual inspection for any damage.
7. Know When to Call a Professional: While routine maintenance is simple, don’t hesitate to call a licensed electrician or the charger manufacturer if you encounter persistent error codes, connectivity problems, or any electrical issues you’re not comfortable troubleshooting yourself. They can diagnose and repair more complex hardware or electrical problems.

Following these basic maintenance tips will help ensure your Rexing Level 2 EV charger, or any Level 2 charger, remains a reliable and safe part of your EV ownership experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What voltage does a Level 2 EV charger use?

A Level 2 EV charger uses 240-volt AC electricity in the United States, similar to what you’d find for a clothes dryer or electric oven.

How much does it cost to install a NEMA 14-50 outlet for an EV charger?

The cost to install a NEMA 14-50 outlet for an EV charger can vary widely. If your electrical panel has enough capacity and is close to the installation spot, it might cost between $250 to $800. However, if you need significant electrical upgrades or a new panel, the costs can be much higher, potentially reaching $1,500 to $2,500 for a panel upgrade alone. Always get a quote from a licensed electrician. Rexing dt2 dash cam smart hardwire kit

Can I use a Rexing Level 2 EV charger with any electric car?

Most Rexing Level 2 EV chargers come with a standard SAE J1772 connector, also known as a “J-plug.” This makes them universally compatible with almost all electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids in the United States, with the exception of Tesla vehicles, which typically require a J1772 adapter.

How long does it take to fully charge an EV with a Rexing 32A Level 2 charger?

With a Rexing 32A Level 2 charger, which provides around 7.68 kW, most electric vehicles can achieve a significant charge or even a full charge overnight. For many EVs, you can expect a full charge from near empty in about 6-8 hours. However, the exact time will depend on your car’s battery size and its onboard charger’s acceptance rate.

Is it safe to install a Level 2 EV charger myself?

While some plug-in Level 2 chargers might seem straightforward, it is strongly recommended to hire a licensed and certified electrician for the installation. They ensure the installation adheres to local electrical codes, that your home’s electrical system can safely handle the load, and that all wiring is done correctly, preventing potential hazards.

What kind of maintenance does a Level 2 EV charger need?

Level 2 EV chargers generally require minimal maintenance. The most important tasks include regularly wiping down the charger unit, cable, and connector to keep them clean and dry, performing visual inspections for any wear or damage to the cable and plug, practicing proper cable management by coiling and hanging the cable when not in use, and checking for firmware updates if your charger has smart features.

What’s the difference between a Level 1 and Level 2 EV charger?

The main difference between Level 1 and Level 2 EV chargers is the voltage and charging speed. Level 1 chargers use a standard 120-volt household outlet, delivering about 1 kilowatt kW and adding roughly 3-5 miles of range per hour, taking days for a full charge. Level 2 chargers use a 240-volt connection, deliver 6 to 19 kilowatts kW, and can add 10 to 73 miles of range per hour, typically charging an EV overnight. Your Complete Guide to Rexing Dash Cam Installation