A Level 2 charger is a common new load around here. Across Montgomery County, 100-amp panels are the norm in older homes, and many are full. Aluminum wiring, two-prong outlets and recalled Federal Pacific or Zinsco panels turn up in the same houses. So we start with the panel label and a load count.
If the panel has space and a clean record, the EV charger goes on a dedicated circuit and the job stays small. If it is full or recalled, a 200-amp upgrade comes first, with PECO resetting the meter. Both prices come in writing, so you choose with numbers in hand.
Ida's remnants cut power across Montgomery County in September 2021. Surge protection at the panel is a cheap add-on during a charger job.