EV Charging Essentials for Residential Applications

If you've just purchased an electric vehicle or are thinking about buying one in the future, it is necessary to install the proper charger in your home.

There are two types of chargers, a Level 1 and Level 2. New homes in Maryland are required to have a Level 2 charger per code. A Level 1 charger is a simple 20A residential plug for your car. A Level 2 charger is usually 50A and can charge our car fully in just a few hours, depending on the make and model of EV.

We highly recommend installing a Level 2 charger.

Here is a list of most auto manufacturers that offer EVs:

What You Need to Know First

Power Requirements:

• Voltage: Level 2 chargers require a 240-volt outlet.

• Amperage: Common chargers need 30-50 amps.

• Circuit: You'll likely need a dedicated circuit (usually 30A–50A) depending on the charger.

• Electrical Panel Space: Your existing panel must have enough space for a 2-pole breaker and the ampacity to handle a 50A load. We can perform a load calculation to determine if there is space in your panel. Read below to discover alternatives

  
  

  What to if Your Panel Does Not Have Enough Ampacity for a Level 2 Charger

• If your existing panel does not have enough ampacity space to power a 50A circuit there are (2) alternatives

• First option, we can perform a heavy-up where we remove your existing service and install a larger service such as a 200A or 400A. This will make it so the entire residence has a higher power panel and you can power more circuits

• Second option, we can install a load shedding device (or load management device) for EV charging that is a smart system that prevents your home’s electrical system from becoming overloaded while still allowing you to charge your electric vehicle. Think of it like an intelligent traffic controller for your home's electricity. This may let you install a Level 2 charger without having to upgrade your panel

• Typical cost for a 200A heavy up $3,500-$5,000

• Typical cost for a 400A heavy up $5,000-$8,500

• Typical cost to add a Load Shedding Device $1,500

  
  

  How to Charge (2) Vehicles on (1) Circuit

• Coming soon

  
  

Step-by-Step Installation Guide for Charger Installation while Reusing Existing Panel and Service

1. Choose the Right Charger

• Look for a Level 2 EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) that's compatible with your EV.

• Decide between:

  • Plug-in model (requires a NEMA 14-50 or 6-50 outlet)

  • Hardwired model (wired directly into your home electrical system)

2. Find the Ideal Installation Spot

• Preferably in your garage or driveway where the cable can easily reach your car’s charge port.

• Make sure it’s close to your electrical panel to reduce installation costs.

3. Invite Harvest Electric for a Site Visit

• We can determine if the existing equipment can handle the new charger as is or if we need to find another solution

• We can help determine the best location for the charger

4. Hire Harvest Electric

• For hardwired and plug in units, the electrician will:

  • Install a new 50A double-pole breaker

  • Run conduit and wires from the panel to the charger location

  • Mount and wire the charger

  • Install 240v plug if the charger is plug in

5. Obtain Permits

• Many localities require a permit and inspection.

• We will include any permit costs and inspections in our quote

6. Installation & Testing

• The electrician installs the charger, tests the electrical connection, and ensures it's working properly.

7. Register & Connect the Charger (Optional)

• If it's a smart charger, you may need to connect it to Wi-Fi and register through the manufacturer's app.

  
  

Typical Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost Estimate
Level 2 Charger	$300–$800
Electrical Installation with Permits	$750–$1,500
Total if reusing existing service	$1050–$2,200

Why Hire Us?

• Harvest Electric has installed many EV chargers and are very well versed in the installation process as well as the local code requirements

• We make sure to install an industrial grade outlet that inspectors look for

• We also upsize the wire size if a circuit is longer than 75' due to voltage drop