As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to surge in popularity, more homeowners are investing in convenient, at-home charging setups. Before you start dreaming of fully charged mornings, there are a few key things to know about having an EV charger installed. We’re here to break it down.
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Why Install an EV Charging Station at Home?
Home charging saves time and fits easily into your routine. You don’t have to hang out at public charging stations and find ways to pass the time – just plug in your car at night at your home EV charging station and start your day with a full battery.
Did you know? Installing an EV charging station also increases your property’s value. More and more buyers want homes that support electric cars. Having an EV charger installed now helps you stay ahead of future demand.
Different Types of Residential Electric Vehicle Chargers
There are three main charger types, but Level 3 chargers (AKA DC fast chargers) are typically reserved for public EV charging stations because of the high power supply these chargers demand. The remaining two levels of charger are more suitable for home EV chargers, and each has different speed and power levels. Here’s a simple breakdown:
Level 1 Charger
- Uses a standard 120V outlet
- Often comes with the car
- Charges about 3–5 miles per hour
- Good for short trips and low daily mileage
Level 2 Charger
- Uses a 240V outlet (like an electric dryer or other major appliance)
- Charges 10–30 miles per hour
- Best for daily use
- Ideal for overnight charging
- Most popular for home installation
Most homeowners choose Level 2 chargers for their EV charging stations because they provide a strong balance between speed and cost. We can take a look at your budget and home requirements to help you decide what type of charger would work best for your home EV charger.
How Much Does Installing An EV Charger Cost?
Costs vary by charger type and electrical setup. On average, homeowners can expect to pay:
- $300–$700 for a Level 2 charger unit
- $500–$2,000 for installation labor and parts
- Extra for panel upgrades, trenching, permits, or other applicable fees related to EV charging station installation.
Did you know? Many states and utility companies offer rebates and incentives for adding residential EV charging stations that can reduce your out-of-pocket costs by hundreds of dollars. We can help you apply for these programs.
Financial Benefits of a Home EV Charger
Charging at home is cheaper than buying gas. In many areas, the cost per mile is about one-third the cost of gasoline. You can also reduce your cost by charging at night. Off-peak rates are lower.
EV drivers also avoid oil changes, engine repairs, and smog tests. Maintenance is easier and less expensive.
Of course, installing an EV charger is more costly up front, but over time, your savings will add up. A one-time EV charger installation can lead to long-term financial benefits.
What Do You Need Before Installing a Home Charging Station?
Before installing a home EV charging station, your home must meet a few requirements:
- A dedicated parking spot
- A garage or driveway near your home works best. The charger should be near where you park every day.
- Sufficient electrical capacity
- Your main electrical panel must be able to support the new charger. We’ll check this during your consultation and upgrade your electrical panel if necessary.
- Access to a 240V line (for Level 2)
- This may already exist in your home because these kinds of lines are used for large appliances. If not, your electrician will add it during the EV charging station installation and add the appropriate breaker to your electrical panel.
The Installation Process
Spartan Electric makes the EV charger installation process simple and safe. Here is what you can expect:
Step 1: Site Assessment
One of our licensed electricians will visit your home to check your electrical panel, parking area, and wiring. Then, we can suggest the best EV charging type and location.
Step 2: Permit and Planning
Some cities require permits for this type of electrical work. We’ll handle the permitting process and ensure the installation meets local codes.
Step 3: Installation
Your electrician will mount the EV charger on the wall and run wires to your breaker panel. If needed, we will upgrade the main electrical panel or install new, code-compliant electrical wiring.
Step 4: Testing and Setup
Once installed, your charger is tested for safety and performance. Your electrician will also show you how to use it for proper operation.
The entire process usually takes a few weeks from start to finish, but more complex jobs may take longer. The actual timeline will depend on your home’s current electrical capabilities, permit turnaround, and type of charger selected. We can give you a realistic time estimate for your specific project after the site assessment is completed, so you’ll know exactly when you can start enjoying your new EV charging setup.
Did you know? Professional installation is always recommended for electric vehicle charger installation for insurance and warranty purposes. This is a home project you definitely don’t want to DIY.
Choosing the Right Charger for Your Car
Different EV models charge at different speeds. Check your car’s manual for its EV charging capacity. Spartan Electric can also recommend a charger that fits your vehicle and driving habits.
Popular brands include:
- Tesla Wall Connector
- ChargePoint
- JuiceBox
- Siemens
- Wallbox
Pro Tip: Some chargers have smart features and upgrades. These include app controls, usage tracking, and schedule timers. Select a charger that meets your needs and makes the most sense for your daily life.
Tips to Maximize Charging Efficiency
- Charge overnight to take advantage of lower rates
- Keep your battery between 20% and 80% for long life
- Avoid frequent DC fast charging to reduce battery wear
- Use a timer to charge only when needed
- Keep your charger clean and dry for best results
Guaranteed Customer Satisfaction with Spartan Electric
When it comes to installing EV chargers, choosing the right electrician matters. You want a team that knows the work, understands your car’s needs, and keeps your home safe. That’s where we stand out.
Spartan Electric brings years of experience in commercial and residential electrical work. Our licensed electricians have completed many EV charger installations for homeowners across the region. We work with all major car brands and charger models, including Tesla, ChargePoint, JuiceBox, and more.
Here’s what makes us the right choice:
1. Expert Installers
Spartan’s team stays current with EV charging technology. We understand the specific power needs of today’s electric vehicles. We also follow all code requirements, so your charger is safe and reliable.
2. Transparent Pricing
No one likes surprises when it comes to cost. Spartan Electric gives clear quotes up front. If your project needs extra work, like panel upgrades or permits, we’ll let you know before the job begins.
3. Full-Service Support
Spartan doesn’t just install the charging station and leave. We guide you through every step – site planning, wiring, permits, main electrical panel upgrades, and testing. If there are rebates available in your area, they’ll help you apply.
4. Fast, Clean Work
Most installs are done in a day or less. Our electricians arrive on time, respect your home, and clean up when they’re done. You’ll have a charger that works – and a garage that looks just as good as before.
5. Customer-Focused Service
Spartan Electric takes pride in doing things right. That means being easy to reach, easy to work with, and responsive when you have questions. They care about your experience, not just the install.
Trusting Spartan Electric with your EV charging station means peace of mind, expert help, and long-term value. If you’re ready to bring fast and affordable charging to your home, our team is ready to help.
Home EV Charging Station F.A.Q.
1. Will I need to reinstall drywall or flooring after the EV charger installation?
Our professional electricians aim to keep disruptions to your walls and flooring to a minimum. However, depending on your home’s layout and where the electrical panel is located, a small amount of perforation might be necessary. If any patching is required, your electrician will walk you through the next steps after your scheduled installation. Drywall and flooring can be reinstalled same-day after completing the project.
2. Can my EV charger work with my solar panel system?
Yes! Many EV chargers are compatible with solar setups, allowing you to power your vehicle with clean, renewable energy. We can help design a charging station system that integrates your charger with your solar panels, maximizing efficiency and savings, and assist with accommodating additional electrification technologies.
3. What does it mean if an installer is Qmerit certified?
A Qmerit-certified installer has been vetted for quality, safety, and customer service. Qmerit partners only with top-tier electricians who meet rigorous standards, so hiring a Qmerit-certified installer means your EV charging station will be installed correctly and up to code the first time around.
Ready to Electrify Your Driveway?
Home charging is the best way to power your electric vehicle. It makes charging more convenient, saves money, and adds value to your home. Choosing the right charger and installer is important.
Spartan Electric makes installing a home EV charging station simple and worry-free. Our licensed electricians have helped many homeowners upgrade to smart, clean transportation. Schedule an assessment today and get on the road to convenient home charging.