Steps to Install an EV Charger at Home
Choose the Right Charger for Your Car
- Level 1 : Charging stations are designed to be plugged into standard 110V-120V wall outlets, requiring no electrician or specific installation. Simply plug them in. However, they charge very slowly, typically taking 10 hours or more to fully recharge the average electric car battery.
- Level 2 : Charging stations are the most commonly installed chargers. They plug into 240V outlets and often necessitate adjustments to your electrical system, such as creating dedicated circuits, installing new outlets, or rerouting power. Due to their higher voltage, Level 2 stations charge vehicles much faster than Level 1 chargers, typically adding around 25 miles of range per hour of charging.
- Level 3 : Charging stations are the most powerful available, operating at 440V. They exceed the power capabilities of residential installations and are rarely found in homes, primarily located in commercial settings. While they offer rapid charging rates, frequent use of Level 3 chargers can potentially impact the longevity of your vehicle’s battery. Due to these considerations, Smiley Electric does not currently offer installations for Level 3 chargers.
Port Types
J1772 is the most common Level 2 charging connector. You will find this port on most electric vehicles. While capable of charging at Level 2 speeds, the J1772 is typically run at Level 2 in most residential and commercial settings.
CHAdeMO is an early form of DC quick charging. CHAdeMO connectors tend to appear alongside J1772 connectors in order to maximize charging options. However, these chargers have been decreasing in popularity and are unlikely to retain a significant market share in the future.
CCS Type 1 / CCS Type 2 connectors enable both AC and DC charging using the same port. Incorporating a J1772 outlet allows both Level 2 and Level 3 charging via the same connector. Both European and American carmakers have embraced the CCS format.
TPC (Tesla Proprietary Connector) is the standard port for all Tesla models. While Tesla vehicles are common in Portland and Beaverton, we are experts at installing the required Tesla Wall Connector or adapting your home setup to charge any EV brand.
Helpful Features
Cord Length can be very helpful or just complicate things. Having a cord that is just short of the needed length to charge can make life frustrating. When pondering available station options be sure to consider the length of cord needed to reach your vehicle’s port.
Phone Applications accompany many charging stations. These apps allow you to monitor and control the charging process while also helping you keep an eye on your electricity consumption.
Charger Communication can be a very valuable addition if you intend to install more than one station at your home or business. Some stations have the ability to communicate with each other helping to safely regulate your energy use.
Internet connectivity you can control when and how your charge is working, provide updates to the charger and even see the power use.
Locking Ability varies from station to station. While few have physical locking mechanisms, many have phone applications that allow users to lock the station to avoid any unwanted use.
Dedicated Circuits are often a must when installing electric vehicle charging stations. The most common Level 2 stations require 240V outlets which can add a hefty demand to your power grid. Creating dedicated circuits for your chargers gives them access to the power they need while keeping your home or business electricity working safe and efficiently.
Power Routing is often needed when installing charging stations. Homeowners regularly lack the sufficient power needed for the station in the location they desire to have it installed. While routing power is not always necessary it can add extra labor and material expenses to the process and is something to consider when planning your electric vehicle station installation. In many cases this process can be avoided by assuring that the station you select has an adequate length of cord.
Installation Location Options
Most Electric Vehicle Charging Stations can be installed indoors or outdoors. It is however important to consider the length of chord on the charger and the distance to your power source. Charging stations often require dedicated circuits and power routing (see Electrical System Adjustments). If you intend to install your station in a communal location or an area with public traffic it is wise to look into stations with an adequate locking mechanism to avoid unwanted use.
Hire a Professional Electrician
A licensed electrician will handle all electrical wiring, circuit installation, and safety measures to ensure compliance with electrical codes. It’s crucial to hire a local electrician who understands the specific requirements of your area.
Mount and Connect the Charging Station
The electrician will mount the charging station and connect it to your home’s power supply, ensuring it meets all safety standards. They might also perform necessary electrical upgrades like panel upgrades or electrical service upgrades to support the new charger.
Cost of Installing an EV Charger at Home
The base price to install an EV charger at home is $1200. Home charging is generally cheaper than public charging. For example, a Level 2 charger can cost about $10 for 240 miles of range, depending on your local utility rates.
Permits and Regulations
Yes, you need a permit to install an EV charger on your property. In Oregon, both homeowners and licensed electrical contractors can install charging stations. At Smiley Electric, we handle the entire process, including obtaining permits and completing electrical inspections to ensure compliance with local building codes.
Benefits of Installing an EV Charger at Home
- Reduce Your Electric Bill: Charging your EV at home can save you money compared to fluctuating gas prices.
- Increase Your Home’s Value: Properties with EV charging stations tend to sell for more.
- Promote Sustainability: EVs produce fewer emissions than gasoline-powered vehicles, helping to reduce your carbon footprint.
Why Choose Smiley Electric?
I’m Josh Smiley, head contractor at Smiley Electric. Our team of licensed electricians, certified in Oregon, offers top-quality EV charger installation services. With over 15 years of experience, we ensure your installation is efficient and problem-free.
Our Services Include:
- Comprehensive home diagnostics
- Surge protection
- Panel upgrades to accommodate your EV charger
Located in Lake Oswego, Oregon, Smiley Electric serves the greater Portland area, including Beaverton, Portland, Oregon, West Linn, Oregon, Lake Oswego, Happy Valley, Wilsonville, Tualatin, Bethany, and Tigard. Ready to install an EV charger at your home?
EV Charger Installation FAQs
- What is the typical EV charger installation cost?
The base price to install a standard Level 2 EV charger at home starts around $1,200 for a straightforward installation (e.g., panel is nearby). The total cost can increase if your installation requires a service panel upgrade, extensive power routing (running new wire a long distance), or if your electrical service needs to be upgraded from 100-amp to 200-amp to safely accommodate the new load. We provide a firm quote after a quick, free home diagnostics.
- Do I need a permit to install an EV charger in Oregon?
Yes, you absolutely need a permit. In Oregon (and specifically Portland/Beaverton), all permanent electrical work, including EV charger installation, requires a permit and a final inspection by the local building department. This ensures the installation is safe and compliant with the latest Oregon Electrical Specialty Code (OESC).
- Does Smiley Electric handle the permits and inspections?
Yes, we handle everything. At Smiley Electric, we manage the entire process for you: obtaining the necessary Portland or Beaverton permits, performing the installation, and coordinating the final electrical inspections. We ensure your new charger is safe, legal, and compliant.
- Are there tax credits or rebates for EV charger installation?
Yes, there are often federal and state incentives available. The Federal Residential Clean Energy Credit may allow you to claim a percentage of the cost of your charger and installation. We recommend checking the Oregon Department of Energy for any current state-specific rebates.