How to Install a Level 2 EV Charger at Home: Step-by-Step Guide

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more popular. Installing a home charging station is a top priority for many EV owners. Having a Level 2 EV charger at home is often the most convenient and cost-effective option¹.

About 60% of EV owners using Level 1 chargers are thinking about upgrading to a Level 2 charger for their homes¹. This guide will help you install a Level 2 EV charger at your home. We’ll cover assessing your electrical system to connecting the charger to your electrical panel.

Key Takeaways

• Level 2 chargers offer faster charging speeds compared to Level 1 chargers, making them a more convenient option for home use.
• The estimated cost for installing a home EV charging station ranges from $1,150 to $2,750, covering the charger and installation expenses¹.
• Most modern EV chargers require a dedicated 240-volt circuit with amperage ratings typically between 40 to 50 amps¹.
• Hiring a certified electrician is recommended for the safe and proper installation of a home EV charger².
• Regular maintenance checks are essential to ensure the optimal functionality of the home EV charger².

Understanding EV Charging Levels and Types

Electric vehicles (EVs) offer different charging options. Each has its own benefits and uses. Knowing the differences between Level 1, Level 2, and DC Fast Charging helps EV owners decide what they need.

Level 1 Charging

Level 1 charging is the slowest, using 120 volts AC and charging at 1.4kW³. A Tesla Model Y Long Range with an 81kWh battery takes about 58 hours to charge fully. A Chevy Bolt with a 65kWh battery takes around 47 hours³. Level 1 chargers add about 5 miles per hour of charge for EVs connected³.

These chargers are great for overnight charging at home or for low daily mileage. They can be plugged into a standard 120-volt household outlet without any special installation⁴.

Level 2 Charging

Level 2 charging is much faster, charging at 10 to 30 miles of range per hour³. Level 2 stations have 3 to 19.2kW of power, with 6 to 11kW common in the US³. A 48-amp, 11kW Level 2 AC charging station can fill a Tesla Model Y Long Range battery in about 7.4 hours, adding around 39 miles of range per hour plugged in³. Tesla owners should consider ChargePoint Home Flex—see why in our dedicated post.

A Chevrolet Bolt can be fully charged in under 6 hours at a 48-amp, 11kW Level 2 AC charging station³. Level 2 chargers are found at public stations, in garages, and at workplaces. They’re good for drivers with long commutes or for multiple EV households sharing a station⁴.

DC Fast Charging

DC Fast Charging, or Level 3, is the fastest, charging up to 80% in 30 minutes⁴. These chargers use direct current (DC) electricity and range from 50kW up to 350kW, with most stations averaging around 150kW³. A Chevy Bolt can charge from 10% to 80% in about 44 minutes on a 55kW DC fast charger³.

A Tesla Model 3 LR takes approximately 18 minutes for a 10% to 80% charge using a DC fast charger³. DC Fast Charging stations are found at commercial locations like highway rest stops, shopping centers, and dedicated EV charging hubs. They’re perfect for long-distance travel or quick top-ups between destinations⁴.

In summary, Level 1 charging is slow but convenient. Level 2 charging is faster and better for daily driving. DC Fast Charging is the quickest but needs special equipment and installation. Knowing these differences helps EV owners pick the right charging solution for their needs.

Pre-Installation Considerations

Before you install an electric vehicle (EV) charger at home, check your electrical system. You need to know what equipment and rules apply. This makes sure the installation is smooth and safe, following local laws⁵.

Assessing Your Electrical System

First, look at your home’s electrical power. A Level 2 charger needs a 240V outlet with a NEMA 6-50 plug. The power it uses can be from 9 kW to 19.2 kW⁵. Make sure your electrical panel can handle the extra load of the charger.

About 20 to 30 percent of installations might need a panel upgrade or a load-management system⁵.

Selecting the Right EV Charger

When picking an EV charger, think about how fast it charges, the type of connector, and smart features. Wallbox smart EV charging stations are a good, affordable choice for home use⁵. Some EVs can charge in both directions, sending power to the grid or your home. This can cost around $5,000⁵.

For more on the best chargers to buy, check out our Comprehensive Buying Guide for Home EV Chargers.

Understanding Installation Regulations

It’s important to know the local rules and permits needed for EV charger setup. These rules can change a lot, depending on where you live⁶. Getting the right permits and following the National Electrical Code (NEC) is key for safety and proper function⁶.

By checking your electrical system, picking the right charger, and knowing local rules, you can have a successful EV charger setup at home⁷.

How to install level 2 EV charger at home

Installing a level 2 EV charger at home is easy and can make charging your electric vehicle better. You need to check your electrical system, pick the right charger, and install it correctly⁸.

Before you start, look at where you’ll put the charger. It should be easy to get to, near the electrical panel, and strong enough to hold the charger⁸.

1. Mounting the Charger: First, attach the charger to the wall or a post. Make sure it’s level and tight.
2. Electrical Wiring: Then, an electrician will connect the wiring from the panel to the charger. They’ll install a new circuit breaker and run the wiring. Most EV chargers need a 240-volt circuit with 40 to 50 amps⁸.
3. Inspection and Testing: After wiring, the electrician will check everything to make sure it’s safe and meets codes. They’ll also test the charger and teach you how to use it right.

When picking an EV charger, think about its power output in kilowatts (kW) and the cord length. A cord of at least 20 feet is good for reaching cars in different spots⁸.

Choosing between hardwiring or a 240-volt outlet depends on portability, flexibility, safety, and cost⁸.

By following these steps and thinking about the important factors, you can install a level 2 EV charger at home. It will meet your needs and make charging easy and fast⁸.

Hiring a Certified Electrician

Installing an electric vehicle (EV) charger at home needs a certified electrician. Trying to do it yourself is not safe and might not follow safety and code rules¹⁰. A certified electrician will make sure it’s done right and meets all local and industry standards.

To find a good electrician, check Tesla’s recommended installer directory¹¹. These electricians have the right training and experience for EV charger installations. This means the job will be done correctly the first time.

Choosing a certified electrician has many benefits. They can help pick the best spot for your charger and the right speed for your needs¹¹. They also make sure it follows the National Electric Code (NEC) and local laws¹¹. This is key for passing inspections and avoiding future problems.

Trying to install an EV charger yourself can cause many issues¹¹. It might lead to faulty parts, less efficiency, and safety hazards. By hiring a pro, you ensure your charger works well and safely for a long time.

In summary, while DIY might seem appealing, it’s best to hire a certified electrician for EV charger installation. This ensures a safe, efficient, and compliant installation. It also gives you a reliable and cost-effective charging solution for your electric vehicle.

Conclusion

Installing a Level 2 EV charger at home offers many benefits. These include more convenience, saving money, and even boosting your home’s value¹². Knowing the different EV chargers and their speeds and needs helps you pick the right one for you¹².

Before you start, check your home’s electrical setup and local rules¹³. A certified electrician can guide you through the process. They’ll get the right permits and make sure your charger is safe and works well¹³.

This guide has given you the tools to enjoy home EV charging. It’s a step towards a greener future¹²¹³.

For more on the best chargers to buy, check out our Comprehensive Buying Guide for Home EV Chargers.

Source Links

1. How to Install EV Charger at Home – A Comprehensive Guide
2. How To Install An EV Charger at Home: A Step-by-Step Guide
3. EV Charging Explained: Level 1 vs. Level 2 vs. DC
4. Understanding the Different Levels of EV Chargers
5. Information on EV Home Charging Stations
6. Everything You Need to Know Before Installing an EV Charger | JP Electrical
7. Home EV Charger Installation Guide
8. How to Install EV Charger at Home – A Comprehensive Guide
9. A Level 2 Charger At Home? Easier Than you Think – A Girls Guide to Cars
10. A Comprehensive Guide to Level 2 EV Charger Installation
11. Comparing EV Charging Companies for At-Home Charging | Qmerit
12. A Step-by-Step Guide to the EV Charger Installation Process: Everything You Need to Know
13. The Ultimate Guide to Installing an Electric Vehicle Charger at Home – 1