You are ready to purchase an electric vehicle and take advantage of the tax credits Congress passed with the recent climate legislation. Now you need to get your home ready, but where do you start?

Here are some of the FAQ homeowners have about preparing their homes for an EV.

Do You Need to Purchase a Home EV Charger?

You may not need to purchase an EV home charger. Most electric vehicles include a Level 1 charger. The charger is compatible with most standard outlets. Plug the unit in and it’s ready to charge your vehicle.

The downside to Level 1 units is the slow charging speed. It can take up to 24 hours to fully charge a depleted battery. You also have to consider the additional electric load. Can your home’s electrical system charge an EV, while the washing machine or microwave is running?

Level 2 chargers are another option. They are significantly more powerful than Level 1 stations and can charge a vehicle within 5 hours.

Along with the purchasing costs, you will also need an electrician to install the charger.

Installing an EV Charger at Home – Can Your Home Accommodate the Unit?

Houses relying on street parking are probably unable to install a home EV charger. A garage or driveway is typically a requirement. Home charger installation costs are noticeably lower when the station is located near an existing power source. Around 25 feet is the maximum distance an EV home charger can be located.

If you have a detached garage, installation may be more difficult and expensive. It depends on the distance from the garage to a power source. Some trenching and installation of an underground cable may be required, and it dramatically increases overall costs.

As you are checking to see if your home can accommodate an EV charger, don’t forget to check the electrical system. Depending on the type of charger, you may need to upgrade your electrical panel. One of our electrician can let you know your home’s maximum power load.

How Much are Home Charger Installation Costs?

Several factors affect home charger installation costs.

Homes with electrical panels next to your parking spot may only cost a few hundred dollars. However, prices increases if your electrical panel or underlying service requires an upgrade which could cost homeowners between $1,500 and $4,000.

Homeowners also want to consider the cost of purchasing a Level 2 charger. Prices vary by features, cord length, and charging speed, to name a few.

Your monthly electrical bill is another cost, but it is often offset by your fuel savings.

Let Us Help You Prepare Your Home for an Electric Vehicle

A lot goes into installing an EV charger at home. Let us help you figure out all of the details. From selecting the right charger to installation, we can help you every step of the way. Contact one of our Home EV Charging Specialists today.

Call us at 484-816-2076, email [email protected], or schedule a call that fits your needs by clicking the button below.