As electric vehicles (EVs) become more prevalent, many Seattle residents are considering the convenience and long-term benefits of installing a home EV charger. Having a dedicated charging station at home ensures that your vehicle is ready to go whenever you need it and provides significant savings over time compared to relying solely on public charging stations.
This guide will explain the costs and savings associated with installing an EV charger at home in Seattle. From initial equipment expenses to the long-term financial benefits, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
A Cost Breakdown of At-Home EV Charger Installation
| Installation | Total Cost (Installation + Charger) | Description | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Easy Installation | $1,500 – $1,800 | $2,500 – $4,000 | Charger is within 10 ft of the electrical panel, inside garage, unfinished, customer provides Level 2 charger. |
| Hard Installation | $2,000 – $3,500 | $2,800 – $5,000 | Underground service on one side of the house, garage on the opposite side, customer provides Level 2 charger. |
Installing an electric vehicle (EV) charger at home is a wise investment that can significantly enhance the convenience of owning an EV. While installation costs are one consideration, ranging from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the installation, there are other costs involved in this process for you to consider. Let’s look at what installation costs include and what additional costs you should consider.
Pre-Installation Costs
Before installing an EV charger at home in Seattle, you’ll need to obtain the necessary permits. The City of Seattle requires homeowners to secure an electrical permit for any significant electrical work, including installing an EV charger. These permits ensure that the work complies with local safety codes and standards.
The permit cost can vary depending on the installation’s scope and your property’s specifics. You can expect to pay between $100 and $300 for the necessary permits. This fee is crucial to the installation process, as it covers the inspection and approval of your electrical system, ensuring the installation is safe and legal.
Charger Equipment Costs
One of the primary costs associated with installing an EV charger at home is the EV charging unit itself. The price of EV chargers can vary significantly depending on the type and features you choose.
- Level 1 Chargers: These are the most basic chargers and typically come with your EV. They plug into a standard 120-volt outlet and provide a slow charge, usually adding about 4-5 miles of range per hour. In other words, it would take over three and a half days for a fully electric vehicle to reach full charge using a Level 1 charger and a standard 120-volt outlet. However, they are great for light or hybrid cars but not as ideal for regular use of a fully electric vehicle. If you install a dedicated Level 1 charger, the equipment costs are relatively low, ranging from $190 to $320.
- Level 2 Chargers: These are the most popular choice for home installations as they provide a much faster charge, adding 20-30 miles of range per hour. Level 2 chargers require a 240-volt outlet, similar to what you would use for large appliances like dryers. The cost of an L2 charger falls between $1,300 and $1,500, depending on the brand and features, such as Wi-Fi connectivity, smart charging capabilities, and energy monitoring.
Electrical Panel Changes & Upgrades (Included in installation)
In some cases, your home’s electrical panel may need an upgrade to accommodate the additional load of an EV charger. This is especially common in older homes where the panel may not have enough capacity for a 240-volt circuit.
Electrical upgrades range depending on complexity. For example changing the electrical panel could cost around $5,000. Upgrading your service to 200 amps could cost $9,000. The cost depends on the work’s complexity and the upgrade’s size and will vary from house to house. This is critical to ensure your home can safely handle the increased electrical demand without risking overloads or outages.
Wiring and Additional Electrical Work (Included in installation)
Installing an EV charger often requires running new wiring from your electrical panel to the charger’s location. The distance between these two points can influence the cost. The costs can increase if your desired installation site is far from the electrical panel or if the wiring needs to be routed through walls or underground.
Wiring costs generally range from a few hundred dollars to $1,000 or more, depending on the run’s length and the installation’s complexity. Additional fees may be incurred if you need to install a new outlet or modify your home’s electrical system to accommodate the charger.
Maintenance Costs
Once your EV charger is installed, the ongoing maintenance costs are relatively low. Most home EV chargers are designed to be durable and require minimal upkeep. Regular maintenance may include periodic inspections to ensure all connections are secure and the charger is functioning correctly. If you experience any issues, such as wear and tear on the charging cable or problems with the electrical connections, repair costs can range from $100 to $500, depending on the extent of the work needed.
However, it’s worth noting that many high-quality EV chargers come with warranties that cover repairs or replacements for several years, which can help minimize unexpected costs.
Price Comparison: Home Chargers vs. Public Charging Stations
When considering the installation of a home EV charger, it’s essential to compare the costs and benefits between public and home charging stations. While public chargers are available throughout Seattle, having a home charger offers distinct advantages in terms of convenience and long-term savings.
Cost of Public vs. At-Home Charging Stations
Public charging stations in Seattle range from $0.20 to $0.40 per kWh for Level 2 charging. For instance, a City Light Level 2 charger costs $0.21 per kilowatt-hour (kWh). For an EV with a 60 kWh battery, a full charge can cost between $12 and $24, depending on the rate, and around $12.60 at City Light chargers. If you rely solely on public charging, these EV charging costs can add up, especially if you frequently drive long distances.
Charging your EV at home is much more convenient and remarkably cost-effective. Residential electricity rates average around $0.14 per kWh, meaning a full charge for a typical EV with a 60 kWh battery costs only about $8.40. Over a year, the savings add up, making home charging an economically smart choice for any EV owner. Plus, with the ability to charge during off-peak hours, you can further reduce your energy expenses, maximizing your long-term savings.
Long-Term Savings
Over time, the cost of charging your EV at home is significantly lower than using public charging stations. Installing a home EV charger can also provide long-term financial benefits. For instance, many utility companies offer special EV rates that allow you to charge your vehicle at a lower cost during off-peak hours, further reducing your energy expenses.
Moreover, with the increasing availability of renewable energy options, such as solar power, you can lower your costs by integrating your home charger with a solar energy system. Over the years, these savings can add up, making the initial investment in a home charger a wise financial decision.
Convenience Factor
Beyond the financial considerations, the convenience of having a home EV charger cannot be overstated. With a home charger, you’re no longer dependent on the availability of public chargers, and you can avoid the hassle of planning your trips around charging stops with potential wait times. This convenience is particularly valuable in a city like Seattle, where traffic and parking can be challenging without the added concern of finding a charging station.
FAQs – How Much to Install EV Charger At Home in Seattle
Do I have or need 200-amp service?
You may need to upgrade your breaker box to 200-amp service before installing an EV charging station, especially if your current service can’t support the additional load.
Do I need to install a new 240-volt outlet?
Yes, if you’re installing a Level 2 charging station, a 240-volt outlet, similar to those used for large appliances like a dryer or an electric range, is required.
Can my existing electrical panel support an EV charger?
This depends on the capacity of your current electrical panel. Older homes often require an upgrade to handle the additional load of an EV charger, particularly for a Level 2 charger.
Should I buy a charger before I hire an installer?
It’s best to consult an installer before purchasing a charger, as their recommendation will depend on your electrical panel’s capacity and budget.
Where should I install the charging station?
Charging stations can be installed indoors or outdoors, typically near where you park your car overnight for convenience.
How long does it take to install an EV charger?
It depends on the complexity. How close is the electrical panel? Do we need to drill holes through siding, etc. So the installation process can take anywhere from 3 hrs to a full day’s work.
How fast will the charger charge my car?
A Level 1 charger can take up to 24 hours to fully charge, while a Level 2 charger significantly reduces this time, making it a better option for regular use.
How much will my electricity bill go up after installing the charging station?
Your electricity bill increase will depend on how frequently you charge your vehicle.
Can you install a charger over the sidewalk?
Installing a charger over the sidewalk is possible, but we do not recommend or offer this service due to the tripping hazard it creates.
Am I eligible for rebates?
Eligibility for rebates depends on your property type and parking situation. Some affordable property types may qualify for higher incentives.
Contact Mirsky Electric to Learn More About At-Home Charging Installation
Installing an EV charger at home in Seattle is an investment that offers electric car owners convenience and allows them to save money. While upfront costs are involved, the benefits of having a dedicated home charging station, such as lower energy costs, easy access, the convenience of charging at your own pace, and the potential for long-term financial savings, make it a worthwhile consideration for any EV owner.
Choosing a professional installation from Mirsky Electric ensures that your EV charger is installed safely, meets all local codes, and is optimized for your home’s specific needs. For more information or if you are looking to get started, contact us to receive a custom quote tailored to your home and vehicle.
