How Much Does It Cost to Install an EV Charger in New Jersey?

For New Jersey homeowners who drive an electric vehicle, charging at home can be one of the biggest conveniences of owning an EV.

But if you're considering a Level 2 charger, you may be wondering how much installation will cost.

There isn't one universal price for EV charger installation. The total cost depends on the charger, the location of the electrical panel, the distance to the charging location, the home's existing electrical capacity, and whether additional electrical work is necessary.

That's why an electrician should evaluate your home before you purchase equipment or assume that every installation will be the same.

What Determines the Cost of EV Charger Installation?

Several factors can affect the total cost of installing an EV charger in a New Jersey home.

The most important include:

• The type of charger

• The distance between the electrical panel and charger

• Whether a new circuit is required

• The condition and capacity of the electrical panel

• Whether the panel has available space

• The location of the charger

• Whether wiring needs to pass through finished areas

• Whether an electrical panel or service upgrade is necessary

• Applicable permit and inspection requirements

A straightforward installation can be very different from one that requires significant electrical upgrades.

Level 1 vs. Level 2 Charging

Level 1 chargers use a standard household outlet and generally don't require the same electrical work as a dedicated Level 2 charging installation.

Level 2 chargers operate at higher voltage and can provide substantially faster charging.

For homeowners who drive frequently, a Level 2 charger can be a worthwhile investment. But it typically requires a dedicated electrical circuit and professional installation.

Thomas Edison Electric evaluates the home's electrical system, confirms available panel space, helps select an appropriate charger, obtains required permits, and completes the installation.

Does Your Electrical Panel Have Enough Capacity?

This is one of the biggest variables in an EV charger installation.

A home may have enough electrical capacity for its existing appliances but not necessarily enough for an additional high-demand load.

An electrician can evaluate the existing service and panel to determine whether the home can support the charger.

In some cases, the installation may require only a new circuit. In others, a panel upgrade or additional electrical work may be necessary.

Where Will the Charger Be Installed?

The location of the charger can also affect the installation.

A charger installed directly adjacent to an electrical panel may require relatively little wiring.

A charger located on the opposite side of a garage—or outdoors on a driveway—may require significantly more wiring and additional work.

Your electrician can evaluate the best location based on where you park, the location of your electrical equipment, and the requirements of the charger.

Do EV Chargers Require Permits in New Jersey?

Not every EV charging installation has identical permitting requirements.

New Jersey's Department of Community Affairs explains that cord-and-plug-connected equipment using an existing appropriate receptacle can fall under an exception, while electrical modifications such as certain circuit upgrades may be subject to different requirements.

For a typical hardwired Level 2 installation involving a new circuit, homeowners should have the electrician determine what permits and inspections apply to the project.

Should You Buy the Charger First?

It can be tempting to purchase an EV charger and then find someone to install it.

However, talking with an electrician first can help you avoid purchasing equipment that isn't appropriate for your home's electrical system.

The electrician can evaluate your vehicle, electrical capacity, installation location, and charging needs before recommending a solution.

Is an EV Charger Worth Installing at Home?

For many EV owners, home charging is a major convenience.

Instead of planning trips around public charging stations, you can charge your vehicle at home while you're sleeping, working, or going about your normal routine.

A properly installed Level 2 charger can also make it easier to maintain a consistent charging routine.

Professional EV Charger Installation in New Jersey

The cost of an EV charger installation depends on the individual home. The best way to understand your project is to have the electrical system evaluated before installation.

Thomas Edison Electric provides professional EV charger installation throughout New Jersey. Its electricians evaluate the home's electrical system, confirm panel capacity, help select appropriate equipment, handle required permitting, and professionally install the charging system.

If you're considering a home EV charger, contact Thomas Edison Electric for an evaluation and an estimate based on your home's actual electrical requirements.