A little preparation before you call an electrician can save time, help you get accurate quotes, and make sure the installation fits both your current EV and any future one.
Here are the main things to consider:
1. Decide whether you need Level 1 or Level 2 charging
- Level 1 (120V): Uses a standard household outlet. Adds roughly 3–5 miles of range per hour. This is enough for some drivers with short daily commutes.
- Level 2 (240V): The most common home charging solution. Typically adds 20–50+ miles of range per hour, depending on the charger and vehicle.
If you drive more than about 30–40 miles most days, Level 2 is often the more convenient choice.
2. Check your home's electrical service
Your electrician will want to know:
- Your main service size (commonly 100A, 150A, or 200A).
- Whether your electrical panel has available breaker space.
- The age of the panel.
- Whether you have major electrical loads like electric heat, a hot tub, or a second EV.
If your panel is close to its limit, you may still be able to install a charger using load management instead of upgrading the entire service.
3. Choose a charging speed
Common Level 2 charger sizes include:
- 32A charger → usually on a 40A circuit
- 40A charger → usually on a 50A circuit
- 48A charger → requires a 60A hardwired circuit
Higher power isn't always necessary. Even a 32A charger fully replenishes most daily driving overnight.
4. Think about where the charger will go
Consider:
- Which side of the vehicle has the charge port.
- Whether you park inside or outside.
- Cable length.
- Protection from weather if mounted outdoors.
- Future vehicles that may have the charge port in a different location.
Taking a few measurements before the electrician visits is helpful.
5. Hardwired vs. plug-in
Hardwired
- Supports higher charging power (such as 48A).
- Fewer connections that can loosen over time.
- Often preferred for permanent installations.
Plug-in (typically using a NEMA 14-50 outlet)
- Easier to replace the charger.
- Can be unplugged if you move.
- Usually limited to lower charging currents.
6. Ask about permits and inspections
Many jurisdictions require:
- An electrical permit.
- Inspection after installation.
A licensed electrician will usually handle this, but it's worth confirming.
7. Utility incentives
Many electric utilities offer:
- Rebates for chargers.
- Installation incentives.
- Lower overnight electricity rates (time-of-use plans).
- Demand response programs.
Checking what's available before buying a charger could save a significant amount.
8. Smart charger features
You may want:
- Wi-Fi connectivity.
- Scheduled charging.
- Energy usage tracking.
- Utility integration.
- Solar or battery integration (if you have or plan to install those).
If your vehicle already has robust scheduling features, a simpler charger may be sufficient.
9. Future-proofing
If you think you'll have:
- A second EV,
- A larger battery in the future, or
- A garage expansion,
mention this to the electrician. Running a slightly larger conduit now can make future upgrades much less expensive.
Information to have ready for the electrician
Before you call, it's helpful to know:
- Your EV's make and model.
- Whether you already own a charger or want recommendations.
- Your home's electrical service size (if known).
- The distance from the electrical panel to the installation location.
- Whether the charger will be indoors or outdoors.
- Whether you want a hardwired or plug-in installation.
- Your approximate daily driving mileage.
Questions to ask the electrician
- Is my existing electrical service sufficient?
- Will I need a panel or service upgrade?
- What charging rate do you recommend for my driving habits?
- Will permits and inspections be included?
- Is load management an option if my panel is near capacity?
- What's included in the quoted price (materials, permit, inspection, patching, etc.)?
- What warranty do you provide on the installation?
For many homeowners with a modern 200A service and a garage near the electrical panel, installing a Level 2 charger is a relatively straightforward project. If your panel is older, undersized, or far from the parking location, the installation can become more involved, so getting two or three quotes is often worthwhile.
