EV Charging Essentials for Residential Applications
- Andrew Daniels
- May 20
- 3 min read
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
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