California has more electric vehicles than any other state, and most charging happens at home. Here is what to know before you book an EV charger installation.
Level 1 and Level 2
Level 1 is the cord that plugs into a standard outlet. It adds only a few miles of range per hour, which works for short commutes and plug-in hybrids. Level 2 runs on 240 volts and adds roughly 25 to 40 miles per hour, enough to refill almost any battery overnight.
Hardwired or plug-in
A hardwired charger is connected directly to the circuit. It is the more reliable option for daily charging and is required for charging above 40 amps. A NEMA 14-50 outlet lets you unplug the charger and take it with you, but the receptacle must be a heavy-duty grade made for continuous EV loads.
Will your panel handle it?
A 48 amp charger needs a 60 amp circuit, which is a big addition to a 100 amp service. Your electrician should run a load calculation. If capacity is short, the choices are:
- Set the charger to a lower output, such as 24 or 32 amps.
- Install a load management device that shares capacity with another large appliance.
- Add a panel or service upgrade.
Permits
A new 240 volt circuit requires an electrical permit everywhere in California. State law requires cities and counties to offer a streamlined process for EV chargers, so approvals are generally quick.
Cost
A standard installation close to the panel typically runs about $800 to $2,500. Long runs, trenching to a detached garage or a panel upgrade add to that. Utilities and air districts periodically offer rebates for chargers and for the wiring, so check current programs before you buy.
Tesla owners
The Wall Connector is the usual choice and can share power between two cars. See our Tesla charger installation page.
Think ahead
If you may add a second EV, solar or a battery, mention it now. Sizing conduit and panel space for the future costs little today and saves a lot later. We install chargers statewide, including San Jose, Irvine, Fremont and San Diego.