Can an Electrician Install an EV Charger? (Yes, and They Probably Should)

You’ve made the switch to an electric vehicle, but you want the convenience of charging it at your home. Now is the perfect time to learn everything you need to know about EV chargers and how to have one installed. Who knows how to install EV chargers? Can I hire an electrician to install it?

For homeowners, hiring a qualified professional to install an EV charger gives you the reassurance that the system is installed safely and reliably.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the reasons homeowners are choosing to install EV chargers, the potential hazards of doing it yourself, and why turning to a licensed electrician is a safer and smarter choice.

Table of Contents

• Why Are Homeowners In Need of EV Charger Installations?

• Can a Normal Electrician Install an EV Charger?

• 5 Key Considerations When Hiring an Electrician for EV Charger Installation

• What Are the Different Types of EV Chargers?

• Your Electric Vehicle Deserves Better Than a DIY Disaster — Let PDX Electric’s Professional Team Handle Your EV Charger Installation

Why Are Homeowners In Need of EV Charger Installations?

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly common, whether chosen to reduce environmental impact or to save on fuel costs. Installing an electric vehicle service equipment (EVSE) in your home can be a practical and cost-effective decision.

Since public charging stations aren’t always conveniently located, installing one at home can be a sensible solution. For instance, disadvantaged communities (DACs) have 64% fewer public charging stations compared to non-DACs. Installing an EVSE in your home will enable you to charge your vehicle while spending time at home.

Home EV chargers allow for more predictable costs as they do not have additional fees, and the cost is tied to your electricity rates. Charging at home allows you to utilize off-peak hours to save money. Typically, during the late night to early morning hours, electrical demand is lower, which leads to lower electricity prices. Charging your EV while you sleep at night can be a money-saving opportunity.

Can I Install an EV Charger Myself?

Yes, but installing an EV charger yourself can pose serious safety hazards, risk property damage, and may violate local building code requirements. Installation should be performed by a knowledgeable and skilled certified electrician who is familiar with regulations and technical requirements of EV charging stations.

Can a Normal Electrician Install an EV Charger?

 

Yes, a general electrician can install an EV charger as long as they are experienced and knowledgeable about local and national codes, safety standards, and local permitting. They can correctly perform load calculations, upgrade panels, manage necessary permits, ensure the proper location of wiring, and install an EV charger to pass code standards.

PDX Electric is a trusted electric vehicle charging station installer. With skill and knowledge, we will ensure your charger is installed safely and up-to-code.

Contact us today with any questions or to request a free estimate.

5 Key Considerations When Hiring an Electrician for EV Charger Installation

#1: Licensing and Experience

Hiring an electrician who is licensed in your state or municipality will ensure your EV charger is installed according to local codes. It is recommended to find a professional who has experience with EV installation, as it is a specialized field that requires the knowledge and skills to install higher-load capacity panels and specific equipment. 

Be sure to verify certificates, licensing, and company reviews so you can be confident that the work provided is done safely and properly.

#2: Local Codes and Permits

An experienced electrician should know the local building codes and requirements in order to install your EV charger. Getting the right permits and having your charger inspected makes sure the installation follows all local and national safety standards.

#3: Load Calculations and Panel Assessment

An electrician will need to determine if your electrical panel is able to handle the continuous load of a charger. If your current panel cannot safely handle the additional load of the EV charger, you will need to upgrade to a higher amperage.

#4: Site Assessment

While you might already have a spot in mind for your EV charger, having a professional evaluate and recommend the best location can be helpful.

Considerations when choosing a location for your EV charger include:

• Electrical capacity

• Accessibility

• Parking availability

• Distance to panel

• Cable length

#5: Safety and Warranty

Protecting your warranty is important, as EV chargers can be costly. Hiring a professional ensures the installation meets safety standards and keeps your warranty valid.

What Are the Different Types of EV Chargers?

Level 1 

A Level 1 charging station plugs into a standard 120-volt alternating current (AC) household outlet. It may seem like the easiest option as it does not require installation, but it is also the slowest charger, only adding about 5 miles per hour of charging.

This charging option can be a good fit if you drive a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) or don’t travel long distances in your EV each day. Because of the slower charging speed, drivers with longer commutes may still need to rely on public charging stations for extended trips.

Level 2

A Level 2 EV charging port uses a 240-volt AC circuit, the same type of outlet you’d usually plug in an oven or dryer. Charging at a faster rate, the Level 2 charger adds about 25 miles per hour of charging. This charging option allows you to fully charge your EV in about 8 to 10 hours, allowing drivers to conveniently recharge their EV overnight.

The installation of a dedicated 240-volt circuit requires a qualified electrician to ensure safety and compliance with local codes.

Level 3

A high-power direct-current (DC) charger is the fastest EV charger and also one that provides the most amount of miles per charge. A DC fast charger can charge a vehicle in about 30 minutes due to bypassing the conversion of AC to DC and supplying the current directly to the battery.

Typically, Level 3 chargers are only for commercial and public use. The efficiency of these chargers comes with high installation costs, requires a licensed electrician, and significant electrical infrastructure for installation. 

Your Electric Vehicle Deserves Better Than a DIY Disaster — Let PDX Electric’s Professional Team Handle Your EV Charger Installation

Installing your own EV charger might seem like a good idea to save money, but it can lead to safety hazards, property damage, and even void warranties. Rather than saving, you might find yourself wasting extra time and money on repairs that a professional could have prevented.

Hiring an electrical professional to install your EV charger ensures it’s done correctly, so you can avoid issues that might prevent you from charging your vehicle. PDX Electric is family-owned and operated and takes pride in providing expert service. Our trained and licensed electricians have the experience and knowledge to install reliable charging stations for your EV.

Our installation steps for electric car charging stations in Portland are as follows:

1. Request a free estimate

2. Approve your estimate

3. We will discuss what are the different types of EV charger available

4. Ideal location for your charger

5. Inspect the electrical system capacity

6. EV charger installation

Give us a call or fill out an online form to receive a free estimate today.