Complete Guide to Installing a Home EV Charging Station: Costs, Permits, and Timeline

With the steady rise of electric vehicles, more and more homes are interested in installing a home EV charging station for convenience and functionality. Though the price can easily range between a few hundred dollars to a few thousand, the final cost depends on the type of charger you need and the requirement for other upgrades. The process from inspection to installation to the actual activation can last several weeks, but the final result is convenient charging and eco-friendly driving. If you’re interested in learning more details about how to install a home EV charger, this blog is just for you.

The A-Z Of Residential EV Charger Installation:  From Inspection To Activation

Thinking of going the green route? Or are you simply tired of having to charge your car at public stations? While installing an EV charger at home is a fantastic idea, the cost and timeline vary significantly depending on project complexity.

For a detailed understanding of the installation process, take a look below.

Step 1: Research & Selection (1-2 weeks)

The first thing you’ll need to do is to determine what type of EV charger you need. This can take anywhere from 1 to 2  weeks and will take into account your usage as well as your budget. Though most homeowners select level 2 chargers, some may prefer a level 1. Here is what each will look like:

• Level 1 Charger: These come with the EV itself and can easily be connected to a 120-volt outlet. Therefore, you don’t need to pay extra for the charging station itself.
• Level 2 Charger: This is for regular drivers who need to charge their vehicles quickly. Depending on your charger’s location, type, and the need for upgrades, the price ranges between $1,700 and $4,000+

Step 2: Site Survey (Up To 2 Weeks)

Next, you need a professional to assess the load-bearing capacity of your panel. They’ll ensure that your current electric panel can actually support an EV charger, or if it needs to be upgraded, which will push up the price. They will also find the perfect spot for the EV charger installation, taking into account clearance space and cable runs.

Step 3: Permit Acquisition (1-3 weeks)

Once all the planning is determined, the electricians will submit the schematics for approval. They’ll include electrical drawings, load calculations, and other documents. Depending on where you live, the price can be anywhere from $50 to $500 for this step.

Step 4: Order Equipment (1-3 weeks)

Once that’s done, it’s time to place your order. Your electricians will place an order for the accessories, conduits, and other hardware required to charge your electric vehicle.

Step 5: EV Charger Installation (2-4 Hours)

Once all the equipment has arrived, it’s time to set it up. Your electricians will first perform the rough-in, laying down conduits, junction boxes, and mounting boxes. Then they’ll run conductors and connect the wiring. If you chose a model with WiFi or cellular connection, they’ll configure it next, till they’re done.

Step 6:  Testing (0.5-2 Hours)

Once they’re satisfied with their work, the electricians will run an initial test of the charging station. This can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours. If they find any issues, they’ll solve them. But if everything goes smoothly, the installation phase is officially complete.

Step 7: Official Inspection (3-10 Days)

Now your electricians will submit the project to be inspected by the AHJ. This could take anywhere from a few days to over a week. Your setup needs to pass safety checks for you to gain the green signal.

Step 8: Activation (Immediate-24Hours)

Once your EV charger passes the official inspection, you’ll need to receive the activation notice. It only takes a maximum of 24 hours, after which you can say that your project to install a home EV charging station is officially done. Now you can charge your car whenever you want from the comfort of your home.

Conclusion

To conclude, setting up an EV charger at home can cost anywhere from $500 to over $4,000. The final price depends on the type of station you need, the levels of upgrades necessary, and even where you live. Though the actual installation itself only takes a handful of hours, the total process can take several weeks from initial site inspection to equipment acquisition to the final activation. We hope this blog gave you a clearer insight into how to install a home charging station. For more information, please feel free to ask.

FAQs