If you own or plan to buy an EV, you’ll need to consider its charging needs. Most homeowners opt for a permanently installed Level 2 EV charger for that purpose. They offer faster charging and other benefits compared with Level 1 chargers. But do you know whether your home can support one? Level 2 EV chargers require dedicated, high-amperage circuits. That means you must consider your home’s existing electrical load, its electrical panel’s capability, and more. Here’s a complete explanation of what your home needs to support a new Level 2 EV charger.
What Are the Electrical Requirements for a Level 2 EV Charger?
Adding a Level 2 EV charger to your home is akin to installing a major electrical appliance. Level 2 EV charger electrical requirements can vary depending on which charger you purchase. At a minimum, Level 2 charger requirements include a dedicated 240-volt circuit. Some can plug directly into a 240-volt outlet, but most require permanent wiring. You must check with your charger’s manufacturer to understand its specific requirements. Level 2 EV chargers also come in a variety of amperages. You can find models that need a 40-amp circuit, with some manufacturers requiring up to 100 amps.
How Many Amps Does a Level 2 EV Charger Need?
A Level 2 charger’s amperage largely determines its charging speed. Generally, the higher the amperage, the faster the charger. You’ll also find that higher amperages mean higher charger prices. There is no standard number of amps required for a Level 2 charger.
You should also know that a charger’s rated amperage doesn’t equate to the circuit amperage required. The National Electrical Code specifies that circuits must be capable of supporting at least 125% of any attached continuous load. Below is a list of common Level 2 EV charger amperages and the circuits they require.
- 32A charger – 40A breaker
- 40A charger – 50A breaker
- 48A charger – 60A breaker
- 80A charger – 100A breaker
Can a 100-Amp Panel Handle an EV Charger?
In some situations, a 100-amp panel and EV charger can work together. Start by selecting an EV charger with the lowest available amperage. But that alone likely won’t be enough. You must also calculate your home’s existing electrical load. That will let you know how much of your home’s 100-amp service is available to support your charger. Our expert electricians can help by providing an accurate load calculation for you. You can use it to understand your options and make the right choice.
Can a 200-Amp Panel Handle an EV Charger?
Most 200-amp panels support EV charger installation. However, your EV charger’s power needs and your home’s existing electrical loads still matter. At a minimum, your panel must have space for a new circuit. And if there’s enough available electrical capacity, you can proceed with your charger installation.
Why an Electrical Load Calculation Matters
If you’ve ever looked at your home’s electrical panel, you may have noticed something curious. It’s that the total amperage listed on the faces of all your circuit breakers exceeds your home’s service amperage. There’s a simple reason for that: You don’t ever use the full capacity of every circuit in your home simultaneously. So, your electrical panel’s circuit totals depend on your home’s individual electrical loads and your typical usage.
That makes understanding your home’s existing electrical load vital before installation of a Level 2 EV charger. It’s especially important to know how much amperage your home’s largest power draws require while running. So, you need to know the operating amperage of things like your HVAC, clothes dryer, oven and cooktop, water heater, and other large appliances or systems. Since those high-draw appliances often operate simultaneously, they may determine if you need upgrades to support your charger.
Does a Level 2 EV Charger Need a Dedicated Circuit?
Almost all Level 2 EV chargers require a dedicated circuit. Specifically, that means a circuit with wiring and a circuit breaker capable of delivering the necessary amperage. Few homes have an existing circuit that can support a new EV charger. Therefore, installing one specifically for your charger is almost always required.
Is There Enough Space in Your Electrical Panel?
The dedicated circuit your Level 2 EV charger requires needs its own circuit breaker. To support it, your electrical panel must have the capacity and space to add one. Your panel may have open space but not enough electrical capacity, or vice versa. An electrician can evaluate your panel to let you know if you need a panel upgrade to support a new Level 2 EV charger.
When Might You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade for an EV Charger?
There are a few reasons why you might need an electrical panel upgrade to support an EV charger. One is if your panel lacks the space or electrical capacity for the required circuit. Another is if your panel is outdated or damaged, which could jeopardize the safety of your charger, EV, and home. You may also need a panel upgrade if you plan to electrify in the future, such as by switching to new, high-demand electric appliances.
What if You Want Faster Charging?
Faster charging speeds mean increased demand on your home’s electrical infrastructure. However, it isn’t always worth paying for the fastest charger available. For one thing, your EV itself may limit charging speeds, making your faster charger irrelevant. Another reason is that a faster charger may require major electrical upgrades that drive up upfront costs. If a slower charger will still let you start every morning with a full EV battery, that expense may not be worth it.
What Does an Electrician Check Before Installing a Level 2 Charger?
The first thing an electrician will check before installing a Level 2 charger is your chosen charger’s power needs. That information lets them evaluate your home’s infrastructure to determine what upgrades you’ll need if any.
The next things an electrician will check are your home’s electrical service rating, panel capacity, and breaker space. If your panel clearly lacks the room or electrical capacity for your EV charger, they’ll recommend upgrades. Otherwise, they’ll move on to calculating your home’s existing electrical load. That’s the last factor that determines if you can add the required new circuit without panel changes or upgrades.
Assuming your home’s electrical infrastructure needs no changes, the next thing an electrician will check is your desired installation location. That will determine the necessary wiring path for your new circuit. The length and complexity of that wire run will play a major role in your installation costs.
Get Your Home Ready for Level 2 EV Charging
If you’re interested in preparing your home for Level 2 EV charging, Bryant Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric can help. Our electricians can handle every step of the process, from evaluating your infrastructure to installation. If you require a service or electrical panel upgrade, they can perform it, taking care to minimize disruption to your home. We even offer financing options on approved credit to make the upgrades and installation you need more affordable.
To schedule an evaluation for a panel upgrade or EV charger installation in Kentucky, Indiana, or Ohio, contact our team at Bryant Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric today.
