Buying an EV? Here’s What to Know Before Installing a Home Charger

With electric vehicles (EVs) becoming more mainstream, more homeowners are finding themselves with a new question: “How do I charge this thing at home?” The answer seems simple, just plug it in, but as many new EV owners discover, a proper charging setup involves more than a spare outlet.

At Corrigan Electric, we help homeowners make the transition to EVs smooth, safe, and stress-free. From assessing your home’s electrical capacity to selecting the right equipment, here’s what you should know before installing an EV charger.

Why a Standard Outlet Won’t Cut It

While most EVs come with a Level 1 charger that plugs into a regular 120-volt outlet, these chargers are slow. Really slow. A full charge can take more than 24 hours, fine for emergencies, but not ideal for daily use.

That’s why most EV owners opt for a Level 2 charger, which delivers 240 volts and significantly faster charging. But before you can install one, your home needs to be ready.

Key Considerations Before You Install

Here are the most important things to think about when preparing your home for an EV charger:

1. Electrical Panel Capacity

Your home’s electrical panel needs to be able to handle the additional load from a Level 2 charger. If your panel is already near capacity (especially common in older homes), you may need an upgrade.

At Corrigan Electric, we check your panel as part of our installation process. If an upgrade is needed, we’ll handle that too, safely and up to code.

2. Location of Your Charger

Where you park matters. Whether your garage is detached, attached, or you park in a carport or driveway, charger placement affects everything from cost to convenience.

We’ll help determine the best location for the charger and run wiring accordingly, minimizing exposed conduit and optimizing functionality.

3. Permitting and Code Compliance

EV charger installations usually require permits and must meet specific electrical codes. Corrigan handles this for you, ensuring everything is safe, legal, and future-proofed for growing EV demands.

4. Charging Speed and Scheduling

Not all EVs charge at the same speed, and not all homes are on the same electric rate schedule. Some utilities offer lower rates for charging during off-peak hours (typically overnight). Many EV chargers let you schedule charging times automatically, saving you money in the long run.

We’ll walk you through charger settings and help you take advantage of energy-saving features.

5. Wi-Fi and Smart Charger Features

Modern EV chargers often come with Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to monitor charging, track usage, and receive alerts. Corrigan can install and configure these smart features so you're not left guessing how your charger works.

Why Choose Corrigan Electric?

Installing an EV charger isn’t just a plug-and-play project—it’s an investment in your home's infrastructure and safety. Corrigan Electric provides turnkey EV charger installation from start to finish:

• On-site inspection and panel evaluation

• Customized placement and load calculations

• Permitting and code-compliant wiring

• Installation of Level 2 chargers (up to 50A or more)

• Setup of smart features (if applicable)

• Post-installation testing and safety checks

We also partner with trusted manufacturers like Eaton, known for their reliable and UL-certified EV charging stations. Whether you already have a charger or need help choosing the right model, we’ve got you covered.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I need a new electrical panel to install an EV charger?
  
  Not always, but we’ll evaluate your panel first. If it’s overloaded or outdated, we’ll provide clear recommendations and pricing.

• How long does installation take?
  
  Most installs take less than a day. Complex projects may take longer, especially if trenching or panel upgrades are needed.

• Can I use my solar system with the charger?
  
  Yes! Some chargers can be integrated with solar power systems. Ask us how to optimize your setup for clean energy charging.

• Is this eligible for rebates or tax credits?
  
  In many areas, yes. We can help you navigate any available utility rebates or federal EVSE incentives.

Ready to Power Up?

If you’re investing in an electric vehicle, don’t wait to figure out your charging setup. A safe, fast, and properly installed home charger will make your EV ownership experience dramatically better.

Let Corrigan Electric take care of the hard work. We’ll make sure everything is done right, from the panel to the plug.

You know us at Corrigan, give us a call! Your Electrician.

📞 (502) 267-4600