Can a Local Electrician Install an EV Charger?

10Sep
by dkelectrical  
0

The Real Question: Can Your Local Electrician Handle EV Charger Installation?

You finally bought that electric vehicle you’ve been eyeing, but now comes the bigger decision: how to charge it at home. The obvious thought is to call the electrician you’ve trusted for years. But is it really that simple? Do they need special certifications? What about permits and costs?

If you’re in Burlington County or Camden County, NJ, and you’re wondering whether your local electrician can safely install an EV charger, you’re not alone. This guide breaks down everything you need to know so you can make a smart, safe, and cost-effective choice.

What We’ll Cover

    1. Can any electrician install an EV charger?
    2. What’s the difference between Level 1, Level 2, and DC Fast Chargers?
    3. Permits, codes, and certifications that matter in New Jersey
    4. What to expect during installation
    5. Average costs and what drives the price
    6. Why hiring a certified electrician pays off
    7. Common FAQs answered

Can Any Electrician Install an EV Charger?

The short answer: not always.

A licensed electrician can technically handle wiring and panel upgrades, but EV charger installation often requires knowledge of specific codes, permits, and safety requirements. Many towns in New Jersey require permits before installation, and some chargers call for manufacturer-specific training.

Electrician checking electrical panel before EV charger installation

Here’s what matters most:

  1. The electrician must be licensed in your state.

  2. They should understand EV charging standards and load calculations.

  3. They need to know local permitting rules.

Hiring someone without this knowledge could lead to unsafe wiring, code violations, or a failed inspection. If you’re unsure, review our guide on benefits of hiring a licensed and certified electrician.

EV Charger Types Explained

Not every charger is created equal. Knowing the difference helps you understand what your electrician should install.

  1. Level 1 Charger: Plugs into a standard 120-volt outlet. It’s slow, often taking over 24 hours for a full charge.

  2. Level 2 Charger: Requires a 240-volt circuit. The most common home solution charges in 4-8 hours.

  3. DC Fast Charger: Industrial grade, primarily for public stations. Requires special equipment and training.

For most New Jersey homeowners, a Level 2 charger is the right fit. That means your electrician must know how to run a dedicated 240-volt circuit and safely integrate it into your home’s electrical panel. Learn more about how to upgrade a home electrical panel if your current system isn’t ready.

Home EV charger plugged into electric vehicle

Permits and Certifications You Need to Know

In Burlington and Camden counties, permits are not optional. Townships want to ensure the wiring, panel, and breaker setup meet code. If your electrician skips this step, you could face fines or insurance issues later.

Electrical inspection for EV charger installation

What to expect:

  1. Permit application filed with the township.

  2. Site inspection by a licensed inspector.

  3. Final approval once installation passes inspection.

Some chargers, like Tesla Wall Connectors, may also require electricians to complete brand-specific training. Ask upfront if your electrician is qualified. For more guidance, check out what to consider when installing EV charging stations at home.

What the Installation Process Looks Like

When you hire a certified electrician, here’s the process you can expect:

  1. Site Assessment: The electrician evaluates your panel, wiring, and garage or driveway setup.
  2. Permit Filing: Paperwork submitted to the township.
  3. Panel Upgrade (if needed): Older homes may require a 200-amp panel.
  4. Charger Installation: Running wiring, mounting the charger, and connecting to your system.
  5. Inspection & Testing: Township inspector signs off, and the electrician ensures everything works properly.

This process may take a few days, depending on permits and inspections, but it ensures your charger is safe and future-proof. If you’re curious about other inspection-related upgrades, review our electrical maintenance checklist.

EV charger installation process wiring

What Does It Cost to Install an EV Charger?

Costs vary based on your setup. On average:

  1. Basic installation: $500-$800 (if your panel is ready and close to your parking spot).
  2. With panel upgrades or long wiring runs: $1,000-$2,500.
  3. Permits and inspections: $50-$200 depending on your township.

At DK Electrical Solutions, we also offer financing, which helps spread out the cost while ensuring you don’t cut corners on safety. For more cost-saving ideas, you may also want to read 7 easy ways to lower utility bills.

Why a Certified Electrician Is Worth It

Here’s the thing: EV chargers aren’t just another appliance. They draw more power, run longer, and can impact your entire electrical system. Hiring a certified electrician ensures:

  1. Proper load calculations for safety.
  2. Code compliance to avoid failed inspections.
  3. Warranty protection for your charger and your home’s wiring.
  4. Peace of mind that the installation is done right the first time.

At DK Electrical Solutions, we’ve installed EV chargers for homeowners across Burlington and Camden counties, and we’ve seen firsthand what can go wrong when the job isn’t handled properly. We also provide support for electrical troubleshooting if issues arise after installation.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re considering installing a home EV charger, don’t leave it to chance. A certified electrician makes the difference between safe charging and future headaches.

✅ Request a fast estimate today and see how simple it can be to get your EV charger professionally installed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Most New Jersey townships require a permit before you can install an EV charger. This ensures your wiring, breaker, and panel upgrades meet the state’s electrical codes. Without a permit, your installation could fail inspection, void your homeowner’s insurance, or even result in fines. The permit process typically involves submitting an application, waiting for approval, and scheduling an inspection after installation. A qualified electrician will handle this process for you so you don’t have to deal with township paperwork.

Not always. While any licensed electrician can technically install a Tesla Wall Connector, Tesla recommends using electricians who have been trained and certified to work with their equipment. Certified installers understand the unique requirements of Tesla chargers, including load sharing, breaker sizing, and Wi-Fi connectivity features. Using a certified electrician not only guarantees compliance but also protects your charger’s warranty.

The installation itself usually takes between 2 to 6 hours, depending on how close your panel is to the charging location and whether any upgrades are needed. However, the entire process can stretch to a few days or even weeks because of permitting and inspection timelines. Most townships require at least one inspection after the charger is installed, and scheduling this step depends on local availability. Learn how to spot warning signs that your electrical panel may need an upgrade before you start.

It depends on the age of your home and your existing electrical capacity. Many older homes in New Jersey still have 100-amp service, which often isn’t enough to support a Level 2 charger along with all your other appliances. In that case, upgrading to a 200-amp panel ensures your home has the capacity for safe charging without tripping breakers. Your electrician will calculate your total load and let you know if an upgrade is required. To learn more, see when a service panel upgrade is necessary.

The increase depends on how much you drive and which charger you use. On average, New Jersey homeowners see an additional $30-$60 per month in electricity costs for charging at home. This is still cheaper than filling up a gas tank. Using a smart charger with scheduling features can help you charge during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower, saving you even more money. If you’re looking to cut down on energy use, check our tips on updating electrical safety in older homes.

Yes, you can. Many Level 2 chargers are rated for outdoor use, but they must be installed with proper weatherproofing and mounted securely. Your electrician will ensure the wiring and connections are safe from rain, snow, and temperature swings. Outdoor installations are common in homes without garages, but they require a charger that’s specifically designed for exposure to the elements. For added protection, you may want to consider a whole house surge protector.

Power Up Your EV Charging Safely

Installing an EV charger is one of the best ways to get the full value out of your electric vehicle, but it’s not a DIY project. The right electrician ensures safety, code compliance, and long-term reliability.

If you’re in Burlington or Camden County and ready to explore EV charger installation, our team at DK Electrical Solutions is here to help. From permits to final inspection, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

Related Reads:

  1. Residential Electrical Services in New Jersey

  2. Wiring and Panel Upgrades Explained

  3. Guide to Home Energy Efficiency

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