Most electric vehicles come with a portable Level 1 cord that plugs into a regular household outlet. It's handy in a pinch, but at roughly 3 to 5 miles of range per hour, it can't always keep up with Central Valley driving. A Level 2 charger runs on 240 volts and can typically add 20 to 30 or more miles of range per hour, so you start every morning with the charge you need.
Do You Need a Level 2 Charger?
- Probably yes if you drive more than about 30 to 40 miles a day, own a fully electric vehicle, or want the flexibility to fully recharge overnight.
- Maybe not if you drive a plug-in hybrid with a smaller battery, have a short commute, or can charge at work.
What to Look for in a Level 2 Charger
| Feature | What to look for | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Power | A unit matched to your vehicle's onboard charger, commonly 32 to 48 amps | Extra power your car can't accept won't speed up charging |
| Installation type | Plug-in (NEMA 14-50 outlet) or hardwired | Hardwired units are often preferred outdoors and for higher-power chargers |
| Connector | A plug that matches your vehicle, or the correct adapter | Mercedes-Benz is transitioning its North American EVs to the NACS port |
| Safety listing | UL or ETL certification | Confirms the unit has been independently safety-tested |
| Weather rating | An enclosure rated for outdoor use if it will live outside | Fresno summers are hot and dusty; ratings protect the electronics |
| Smart features | App scheduling, energy tracking, remote start/stop | Makes it easy to charge during cheaper off-peak hours |
| Efficiency | ENERGY STAR certified models | Uses less standby power over the life of the charger |
Plug-in or hardwired?
If you already have a 240-volt outlet near where you park, a plug-in charger can be the simplest option. If not, an electrician will need to add a circuit either way, and many owners choose a hardwired unit. Hardwired chargers have fewer connection points exposed to the elements and can often run at higher power.
Budgeting for Home Charging
Plan for two costs: the charger itself and the installation. Charger hardware commonly ranges from a few hundred dollars to around a thousand, while installation depends on your electrical panel's capacity and how far the charger is from it. Very cheap, unbranded chargers often skip safety certifications, so it's worth paying for a listed unit.
About incentives: The federal 30C home charger tax credit ended for equipment placed in service after June 30, 2026. Check PG&E's current rebates and local programs before you buy, as offers change throughout the year.
Charge Smarter, Not Just Faster
PG&E's EV2-A home charging plan makes electricity cheapest from midnight to 3 p.m. and most expensive from 4 to 9 p.m. Use your charger's app or your Mercedes-Benz vehicle's charging schedule to start charging after midnight.
For everyday driving, there's no need to charge to 100% every night. Many drivers set a lower daily limit and charge fully only before long trips; check your owner's manual for Mercedes-Benz recommendations.
Leave Installation to a Licensed Electrician
A Level 2 charger needs a dedicated 240-volt circuit, a permit and an inspection. In California, hire a contractor with a C-10 electrical license. Ready for the next step? Our step-by-step Level 2 installation guide walks through the process.
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Explore our electric lineup and ask our team anything about charging at home or on the road. Call Sales at (559) 254-4585.
For general information only. Charging speeds vary by vehicle, charger and conditions. Electrical work should be performed by a licensed electrician per local code. Utility rates and incentives change; confirm current details with PG&E.