Understanding the Cost of EV Chargers and the Cost to Install an EV Charger at Home
When considering the installation of an EV charger at home, one of the first questions that often comes up is, “What’s the cost?” Understanding the full range of expenses involved will help you make a well-informed decision.
Basic EV Charger Installation Costs
The cost of installing an EV charger typically starts at around $1,200. This price includes the necessary permits, labor, and materials needed to complete the installation. However, this is just the starting point. Additional factors can impact the price. For instance, if your home requires more extensive wiring due to the location of your electrical panel, the cost can go up. The further the charger needs to be from your electrical panel, the more it may cost to run wires and make the installation work properly. In some cases, this could push the cost up to $1,800 or more.
How Much Do EV Chargers Cost?
It’s important to note that the installation cost does not include the price of the EV charger itself. The price of the charger will depend on the brand and model. For example:
- A Tesla charger typically costs about $430.
- A ChargePoint or Emporia charger runs around $500.
These prices reflect the basic chargers that are compatible with most vehicles, but there are more premium chargers that can cost more.
Factors That Can Affect the Overall Cost for Residential EV Charger Installation at Home
While the basic installation can cost between $1,200 and $1,800, several factors can influence the final price. Some of the most important considerations include:
- Electrical Panel Location: If the panel is located far from the installation point, more extensive wiring may be necessary.
- Upgrades to Electrical System: Older homes with outdated electrical systems might need an upgrade to handle the additional load of an EV charger. You may need to have a load calculation conducted on your home to make sure it can handle the addition power needs of the EV charger.
- Type of Charger: As mentioned, hardwired chargers generally cost more than plug-in chargers due to their faster charging capabilities and permanent installation.
- Permits: In certain areas, you might need to pay for permits before installation can begin, which could add extra costs to the total.
What Does the Cost Cover?
The cost paid to an electrician near you for installing an EV charger generally covers:
- Labor: This includes the time required by the electrician to install the charger and connect it to your electrical panel.
- Permits: You may need specific local permits for EV charger installation, and these can vary by location.
- Materials: This includes the wiring, any necessary upgrades to your electrical system, and the installation materials for the charger itself.
By understanding the cost breakdown, you’ll be better prepared to discuss your specific needs with an electrician and make an informed decision on which option is best for your home and budget.
Contact LiveWire Electrical for EV Installation Near You
If you are looking for EV installation in Charlotte or one of the surrounding communities like Huntersville, Concord, Matthews and more we invite you to reach out to the licensed electricians at LiveWire Electrical. We have years of experience installing level 2 EV chargers in residential homes and can get you connected quickly and safely. Contact our office today to set up an installation evaluation.