Electric cars are everywhere. Their popularity is exploding because of technological advancements like improved battery performance and greater affordability thanks to federal tax credits. With close to 70 different electric vehicles available in the United States, you might think the hard work is over once you’ve finally decided on the right model. But before making the investment, there are important things you need to know about updating your garage, namely what kind of charger to install.

According to Eduardo Guraieb, senior product marketing manager at ChargePoint, “Preparing your garage for an electric vehicle (EV) is simpler than many think, but it’s worth planning to make daily charging convenient and efficient.” In his exclusive interview with House Digest, Guraieb explained that there are two types of EV chargers you should consider. The right one depends on your specific vehicle. 

“Level 1 chargers are best suited for plug-in hybrids because they are slower and often impractical for most fully electric vehicles,” he said. “Level 2 (240V) chargers require a dedicated 240V outlet or hardwired connection and available panel capacity … Level 2 charging offers more flexibility, especially if your house has or may get multiple EVs.” Although you can charge your electric vehicle with a standard wall outlet, Guraieb said that method of charging only adds around three to five miles of range for each hour you spend charging your vehicle. “Level 2 chargers typically add 25–50 miles of range per hour, depending on the amperage and vehicle,” he explained. “These chargers are ideal for overnight charging, as most EVs can fully recharge in under 8 hours.”

“For most drivers, Level 2 is the right choice,” Eduardo Guraieb told House Digest during his exclusive interview. The process of installing your EV charger is among the electrical projects best left to a professional. “First, you should assess your home’s electrical panel,” Guraieb advised. “A licensed electrician can help determine the best way to accommodate a 240V circuit for your new charger.” He went on to explain that it’s similar to the outlet used for your dryer or oven. “Next, you should have an electrician install a dedicated 240V outlet,” he said. “Most Level 2 chargers are hardwired directly into your home’s electrical supply.” The final step is mounting your charger. “Look for a model that’s UL-listed for safety, weatherproof if used outdoors, and adjustable in amperage to match your home’s available power,” the ChargePoint expert suggested.

According to Guraieb, “costs vary depending on your home’s existing electrical system.” But, you can expect to spend far less on updating your garage than you will on your new EV itself. Along with electrical work and outlet installation, which Guraieb said would cost between $300 and $800, you’ll also need to purchase the charger hardware itself. Experts say adding a Level 2 EV Charger helps your home’s resale value. Financial help is out there if you need it. “Federal and local incentives may help offset costs,” Guraieb told us. “For example, the U.S. federal tax credit allows homeowners to deduct 30% of the cost of hardware and installation (up to $1,000) for EV charging equipment.”

An EV charger doesn’t take up much space, but it won’t hurt to organize your garage like a professional before installing one. “You don’t need a massive garage to charge an EV, but a little planning goes a long way,” Eduardo Guraieb said during his exclusive interview with House Digest. “Any standard one- or two-car garage should have enough room to install a charger, especially with wall-mounted units with flexible cable lengths (usually 23–25 feet).” The ChargePoint expert also said you’ll want to locate your charger close to your electrical panel, leave plenty of clearance around your car, and pick a model that’s rated for outdoor use if you plan to install it on an exterior wall. “A tidy installation with a well-positioned cable can reduce tripping hazards and keep your garage organized,” Guraieb added.

According to Guraieb, to make sure a Level 2 charger meets your needs in the future, you should “think beyond just plugging in.” Depending on your home’s existing infrastructure or your unique needs, there are several valuable features that can save you money long-term. “Smart chargers can help you schedule charging when electricity is cheapest and monitor energy use to avoid demand surcharges,” Guraieb suggested. He also recommended selecting a charger with an adjustable power output. “That flexibility means you won’t need to buy a new charger if you upgrade your panel or get a second EV down the line,” he explained. Lastly, make sure you pick a charger with universal compatibility.