Every week we get the same question from a new EV owner in Cinco Ranch or Elyson: how much to install a charger in the garage? The honest answer is that it depends on three things, and none of them is the charger.
The circuit
A Level 2 charger needs a dedicated 240-volt circuit, usually 40, 50 or 60 amps depending on the charger and how fast you want to charge. The breaker, the wire and the connection method (hardwired or a NEMA 14-50 outlet) are the core of the job.
The distance
If your panel is in the garage, the run is short and the cost is at the low end. If the panel is on the far side of the house, we are running heavy wire through the attic or along the exterior in conduit, and labor and materials climb with every foot.
The panel
This is the variable that surprises people. We run a load calculation on every EV install. Most 150- and 200-amp panels have room. Many 100-amp panels do not. When a panel is close to capacity, a load-management device that pauses charging when the house is drawing heavily is often a far cheaper answer than a full upgrade.
Permits and rebates
A new 240V circuit requires a permit and inspection in Katy, Harris County and Fort Bend County; we handle it and the cost is in your quote. Check with your electricity provider for charger rebates — several Texas retail providers offer them.
Getting a real number
A ten-minute look at your panel and garage is enough for a firm quote. We will tell you the charging speed your panel supports and whether a load-management device or upgrade is on the table.