The cost to install a Level 2 EV charger depends mostly on three things: how far the charger is from your electrical panel, whether your panel has the capacity and space for a new 240-volt circuit, and the charger you choose. A short run from a panel with room to spare is the simplest job. A long run to a detached garage, or a panel that needs an upgrade first, costs more. Permits and inspection are part of every install. Eggers Electric in Loveland gives you a written price after looking at your panel and the route.
You get a written price before every job.
What goes into the price
1. Distance and route from the panel
The wire, conduit and labor grow with distance. A charger on the garage wall next to the panel is a short run. A charger on the far side of the garage, outside on a driveway post or in a detached garage (which can mean trenching) is a longer one.
2. Panel capacity and space
A Level 2 charger needs a dedicated 240-volt circuit. If a load calculation shows your panel and service can handle it, we add the circuit. A load calculation may show you can add a charger without a panel upgrade. Options include a load-management device or a charger set to a lower current. A subpanel can add breaker space, but not more total power. If the capacity isn’t there, a panel or service upgrade comes first, and that decision has the biggest effect on the price. More in EV charger installation and panel upgrades.
3. Circuit size
Chargers come in different amperage ratings. A higher-amperage charger charges faster but needs a larger circuit and wire. Many homes do fine with a moderate setting, because most cars sit overnight.
4. Hardwired or plug-in
A plug-in charger uses a 240-volt outlet; a hardwired charger connects directly to the circuit. Either way, the circuit, outlet and charger have to be rated for continuous EV charging and installed to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. The charger itself
You can buy the charger yourself or have us supply it. Prices vary by brand, amperage, cable length and smart features.
6. Permit and inspection
A new 240-volt circuit for an EV charger needs an electrical permit and inspection. The permit cost is included in your written price.
Ways to keep the cost down
- Put the charger close to the panel if your parking allows it.
- Ask about load management before assuming you need a panel upgrade.
- If a second EV, a heat pump or a hot tub is likely, plan the capacity once.
- Check your utility for EV charger rebates or charging rates. Programs change, so check before you buy.
Talk to a local electrician
Every Eggers Electric visit includes the repair, installation or service you called us for, plus the $89 Eggers Safety Inspection. A licensed electrician looks at your home and the work you need and gives you a written price before any work starts; the $89 is credited toward the job when you go ahead. We are locally owned in Loveland since 1973, rated 4.9 on Google with 400+ Google reviews, and every job is backed by our 2-year workmanship warranty. Call 7 days, 7am–8pm at 970-669-1883 or Schedule Service.
Frequently asked questions
Is a Level 2 charger worth it?
For most EV owners who charge at home, yes. A Level 2 charger adds range much faster than a standard 120-volt outlet, so most drivers can recharge a typical day of driving overnight.
Do I need a panel upgrade for a Level 2 charger?
Not always. A load calculation shows whether your panel can handle the new circuit. Load management or a smaller circuit can sometimes avoid an upgrade.
Do I need a permit for an EV charger?
Yes. A new 240-volt circuit for an EV charger needs an electrical permit and inspection. We pull the permit and schedule the inspection.
Can I supply my own charger?
Yes. Customer-supplied chargers must be UL-listed (or listed by another recognized lab), sized for your circuit, and installed per the manufacturer’s instructions.