Cost To Install EV Charger at Home

For many years, the auto industry saw incremental improvements rather than significant innovations. However, everything changed with the introduction of Electric Vehicles (EVs) on the roads. These vehicles surpassed expectations with their impressive power, extended ranges, and abundant features, making them the future of transportation. 

The only minor inconvenience, if it can be called that, is the need for frequent charging. Typically, this would entail using public charging stations. But by installing a home EV charger, you can enjoy all the benefits of your environmentally-friendly vehicle without leaving the comfort of your home for every recharge.

Naturally, the first question that comes to mind is, ​“How much does a home EV charging station cost?” Let’s explore the key cost factors involved:

• Type of charging station
• Any electrical upgrades needed
• Installation labor fees
• Permitting and inspections

Type of Charging Station

Level 1

As you might expect from something titled ​“Level 1,” this is the most basic charging method. It simply involves plugging your car into the normal 120V outlets in your home. That’s right, the same plugs you use to power your TV, lamps, or computer. This is called ​“trickle charging” because it essentially trickles power into your vehicle. You gain between 2 and 4 miles of range every hour you charge your car. A full charge could take up to four days. For some people, this is plenty. For others, it’s basically unusable. 

Level 1 charging requires an adapter, which may come with your car. If not, it can cost just over $200.

Level 2

Level 2 chargers are a full step above Level 1, using the 240V circuits you typically reserve for clothes dryers and similar appliances. But, just like how different types of dryers take longer to dry your clothes, each Level 2 method takes a different amount of time to charge your vehicle. 

In some cases, you can use these 240V circuits just by purchasing an adapter and plugging your vehicle into the outlet. However, 240V outlets are not as uniform as 120V ones, so you will need to choose the correct NEMA plug type. Adapters can cost you a few hundred dollars. 

The wall connectors are also within the Level 2 category, usually available for around $500. If you want the fastest possible home EV charger that doesn’t break the bank, look no further.

Different types of wall connectors exist, depending on your specific needs. For example, some are only compatible with Teslas, while others are compatible with most EVs, including Teslas. You can typically install the wall connectors in a garage or on the side of your home, giving you more flexibility than plugging into an outlet.

Since the vehicles receive a higher voltage, 240V options charge about 4 to 6 times faster than Level 1 chargers. Generally, you can expect between 15 and 30 miles of range for every hour on a basic 240V adapter. Meanwhile, wall connectors can provide outputs reaching 48 amps. If your vehicle supports it, these chargers can add up to 44 miles of range per hour. Additionally, they provide power-share, allowing you to charge more than one EV at the same time.

DC Fast Power Supply

Sometimes called Level 3, the DC fast power supply chargers are currently the most powerful in the public EV world. This level includes the Tesla Superchargers. Utilizing between 400 and 1000V, these stations can provide up to 200 miles of range in only 15 minutes. These are usually only present in public locations and business properties, though you can technically install one in your home if you’re willing to pay extreme amounts.

Please remember, however, that not all EVs can handle the output of these chargers. Plus, there are several connectors for Level 3 chargers. They are not interchangeable, so you will be locked into a particular connector type if you install a DC fast power supply.

Any Electrical Upgrades Needed

Beyond the adapter, wall connector, or station, the overall cost to install a home EV charger includes any electrical upgrades your home needs. For example, older homes may only support up to 100 amps; most amps are going to appliances like a dryer, ovens, or air conditioners. It’s easy to go over the limit while also charging an EV. Fixing this issue requires installing a new power panel and running new wiring to a new outlet at the desired parking location.

Finally, the most impractical choice: Level 3. Without extensive remodeling, there is almost no way to install a Level 3 station in a residential home. It takes a robust electrical infrastructure to support that level of power, and practically no homes can handle it. It simply isn’t a viable choice for the average person, cost or infrastructure-wise.

Installation Labor Fees

The installation labor is another contributing factor to the total cost of home EV chargers. The cost of the Level 2 wall chargers depends on the distance from the electrical panel, the choices of upgrades or modifications, and the overall difficulty of working on a particular home. Usually, labor accounts for about half the total budget for installing an EV charger. 

Installation labor for a Level 3 station is dramatically higher than any other choice due to the difficulty of the job and the high level of expertise needed.

Permitting and Inspections

The final contributing factors to your expenses are the permit and inspection costs. To prevent any damage or danger, all home EV charger installations must follow local, state, and federal building codes. Depending on your area, these items can run from $50 to several hundred dollars.