Published September 14, 2026 by National Electric NM
Home charging is cheaper and more convenient than public charging. Here is what to know before booking EV charger installation.
Level 1 and Level 2
Level 1 uses a regular 120 volt outlet and adds roughly 3 to 5 miles of range per hour. That is enough for short commutes. Level 2 uses 240 volts and adds roughly 20 to 40 miles per hour, refilling most batteries overnight.
Hardwired or plug-in
A plug-in charger uses a NEMA 14-50 outlet on a 50 amp circuit and charges at up to 40 amps. A hardwired unit such as the Tesla Wall Connector can charge at up to 48 amps on a 60 amp circuit and has no plug to wear out. Hardwired is the better choice outdoors.
Can your panel handle it?
EV charging is a continuous load, so the circuit must be rated for 125 percent of the charging current. A 200 amp panel usually has room. A 100 amp panel often does not, and needs either a load management device that pauses charging when the house is busy or an electrical panel upgrade.
What affects cost
- Distance from the panel to the parking spot.
- Whether cable runs through a finished wall, an attic, or a trench.
- Spare capacity in the panel.
- Indoor or outdoor mounting.
Nationally, a straightforward Level 2 installation often lands between about $800 and $2,500 before the charger itself. Long runs and panel work add to that. These are ballpark figures only.
Tips
Ask your utility whether it offers an EV rate or rebate. If you may buy a second EV, tell your electrician so the circuit and conduit can be planned for it. If you are also updating the garage, see garage electrical installation.