Cost to Install Level 2 Charger at Home: A Complete Guide

the typical installation cost for a home EV charger ranges from $800 to $2,000, with some estimates placing the average total cost at around $1,250. The cost to install an EV charger at home can vary based on several factors, including the type of charger, the electrical setup of the home, and the location. According to various sources,

Factors Affecting Cost to Install Level 2 Charger at Home

Electrician Fees

The cost of hiring an electrician to install a level 2 charger at home can vary depending on the complexity of the installation and the electrician’s hourly rate. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $50 to $100 per hour for an electrician’s services.

In addition to the hourly rate, some electricians may charge a flat fee for the installation. This fee may include the cost of labor, materials, and equipment needed for the installation.

Materials and Equipment

The cost of materials and equipment needed for the installation of a level 2 charger can vary depending on the type of charger and the complexity of the installation. The cost of the charger itself can range from $500 to $1,500, depending on the brand and features.

Other materials and equipment needed for the installation may include conduit, wiring, circuit breakers, and mounting hardware. Homeowners can expect to pay between $200 to $500 for these materials and equipment.

Permit and Inspection Fees

Some local governments may require homeowners to obtain a permit before installing a level 2 charger. The cost of the permit can vary depending on the location and the complexity of the installation.

After the installation is complete, homeowners may also need to have the installation inspected by a local government inspector. The cost of the inspection can vary depending on the location and the complexity of the installation.

In summary, the cost of installing a level 2 charger at home can vary depending on several factors, including electrician fees, materials and equipment, and permit and inspection fees. Homeowners should consider these factors when budgeting for the installation of a level 2 charger.

Average Cost of Installation

National Average

The national average cost to install a Level 2 EV charger at home is around $1,200 to $2,000. This cost includes the hardware, installation, and any necessary upgrades to your home’s electrical system. The cost can vary depending on factors such as the brand of the charger, the complexity of the installation, and the location of your home.

Tip That will save you money: The IRS is offering a tax credit for the installation of home EV charging stations in 2023. This tax credit amounts to 30% of the cost of hardware and installation, with a maximum credit of $1,000 for residents

Regional Differences

Regional differences can also impact the cost of installation. In some areas, the cost may be higher due to higher labor costs or stricter building codes. In other areas, the cost may be lower due to lower labor costs or fewer installation requirements. It’s important to get multiple quotes from licensed electricians in your area to get an accurate estimate of the cost of installation.

Additionally, some utility companies offer rebates or other incentives for installing a Level 2 charger at home. These incentives can help offset the cost of installation, so it’s worth checking with your utility company to see if they offer any programs.

Overall, the cost to install a Level 2 charger at home can vary depending on several factors. It’s important to do your research and get multiple quotes to ensure you’re getting a fair price for your installation.

Additional Costs to Consider

Upgrading Electrical Panel

If your home’s electrical panel is not equipped to handle the increased load required for a Level 2 charger, you may need to upgrade your panel. This will involve hiring a licensed electrician to assess your current panel and determine if it needs to be replaced or upgraded. The cost of upgrading or replacing an electrical panel can range from $500 to $2,000, depending on the complexity of the job.

Wiring Upgrades

Depending on the age of your home and the condition of your wiring, you may need to upgrade your electrical wiring to accommodate the increased load of a Level 2 charger. The cost of rewiring your home will vary depending on the size of your home and the complexity of the job. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $3,000 and $10,000 for a complete home rewiring.

Additional Features

Some Level 2 chargers come with additional features that can increase the overall cost of installation. For example, some chargers have Wi-Fi connectivity that allows you to monitor and control the charging process from your smartphone. Others may have built-in surge protection or other safety features. These additional features can add anywhere from $100 to $500 to the total cost of installation.

It’s important to keep in mind that these additional costs may not be necessary for every installation. Your licensed electrician can help you determine which upgrades and features are necessary for your specific situation.

Overall, the cost to install a Level 2 charger at home can vary widely depending on a number of factors. By considering all of the additional costs associated with installation, you can ensure that you have a clear understanding of the total cost of the project.

Maintenance and Service

It is also important to consider ongoing maintenance and service costs, such as periodic inspections, software updates, and repairs. These costs can vary depending on the charger manufacturer and the service plan selected. This should be releatively low cost provided you are buying from a well known manufacturer and did your survey the right way.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

When it comes to installing a Level 2 charger at home, you have two options: DIY or professional installation. While DIY installation may seem like a more cost-effective solution, it’s important to consider the potential risks and drawbacks.

DIY installation requires a good understanding of electrical wiring and safety protocols. If you’re not familiar with these concepts, it’s best to hire a professional to ensure the installation is done correctly and safely. Additionally, DIY installation may void the warranty on the charger, which could end up costing you more in the long run if something goes wrong.

Professional installation, on the other hand, guarantees that the installation is done correctly and safely. Professional installers are trained and experienced in electrical wiring and safety protocols, and they have the proper tools and equipment to get the job done right. Plus, professional installation typically comes with a warranty, giving you peace of mind in case something goes wrong.

DIY Installation	Professional Installation
Lower upfront cost	Higher upfront cost
Requires electrical knowledge and safety precautions	Guarantees correct and safe installation
No warranty	Comes with warranty

Ultimately, the decision to go with DIY or professional installation depends on your level of expertise and comfort with electrical wiring. If you’re confident in your abilities and willing to take on the risks, DIY installation may be the way to go. However, if you’re not comfortable with electrical work or want the peace of mind that comes with a warranty, professional installation is the better option.

Conclusion

Installing a Level 2 charger at home can be a significant investment, but it offers many benefits to EV owners. The cost of installation depends on various factors such as the location, electrical panel capacity, and the type of charger you choose. In general, the cost can range from $500 to $2,500, excluding the cost of the charger unit itself.

It’s important to consider the long-term savings that come with owning an EV and installing a Level 2 charger. With faster charging times, you’ll be able to use your car more often, and you’ll save money on gas expenses over time. Additionally, some utility companies offer rebates and incentives for installing a Level 2 charger, which can help offset the initial cost of installation. Also, there are recent studies that show how a level 2 EV charger can increase your home value.

If you’re considering installing a Level 2 charger at home, it’s important to do your research and choose a reputable installer. Make sure to get multiple quotes and compare the costs and services offered by each company. With the right installation, you can enjoy the convenience and cost savings of owning an EV with a Level 2 charger at home.

After you have your level 2 installed you should think about daily routine and how it will affect your charging needs. You know that you’ll need to charge your EV overnight while you sleep, but you also want to be prepared for any unexpected trips or errands. For example You can plug in your car every night at 10 pm and set it to charge until 7 am the next morning. This will give you a full charge every day, and you can easily adjust the schedule if needed.