So you’ve gone electric, congratulations! Home charging offers unmatched convenience, but before plugging in a Level 2 EV charger, it’s essential to make sure your electrical panel can support the additional load. Not all panels are designed to handle the power demands of EV charging.
At Lights on Electric, we help homeowners make smart, safe upgrades as they transition to electric vehicles. Here’s a simple breakdown of how panel capacity affects EV charging and what options are available if your system needs improvement.
Why Panel Capacity Matters for EV Charging
EV chargers use a lot of electricity typically 30 to 60 amps and often run for hours at a time. If your electrical panel is already near its limit, this extra demand can strain the system.
According to this overview of electrical panels, panels are designed to safely handle only a certain amount of electrical current. When capacity is exceeded, it can lead to tripped breakers, charging issues, or safety concerns. That’s why checking your panel before installing an EV charger is so important.
How to Tell If Your Panel Is Suitable
Check Your Panel’s Amperage
Your panel’s amperage rating is usually listed on the inside label. If you have a 100-amp panel and your home already uses most of that capacity, adding an EV charger may exceed safe limits.
Assess Your Current Electrical Load
Major appliances such as HVAC systems, electric water heaters, ovens, and dryers all draw significant power. When combined, these loads can leave little room for an EV charger.
Plan for the Future
If you’re considering additional appliances, a home office, or even another EV down the road, your electrical system should be prepared to handle future growth not just today’s needs.
Schedule a Professional Evaluation
A licensed electrician can perform a detailed load calculation, inspect your panel’s condition, and determine whether upgrades are needed to safely support EV charging.
What If Your Panel Isn’t Ready?
If your electrical panel can’t support an EV charger as-is, there are several solutions:
- Panel Upgrade: Upgrading to a higher-capacity panel (often 200 amps) provides ample room for EV charging and future electrical needs.
- Subpanel Installation: A subpanel can add circuit space and support dedicated loads without replacing the main panel.
- Load Management Systems: Some EV chargers use smart load management to balance electrical demand and reduce strain on your system.
Our team will recommend the safest and most cost-effective option based on your home and lifestyle.
Safety Always Comes First
Electrical upgrades should never be a DIY project. Working with a licensed electrician ensures:
- Proper load calculations
- Code-compliant installations
- High-quality, approved equipment
- Long-term reliability and safety
Routine inspections and maintenance also help keep your electrical system operating safely as your needs evolve.
Final Thoughts
Making sure your electrical panel can support an EV charger is a critical step toward safe, reliable home charging. With the right evaluation and professional guidance, most homes can be upgraded to accommodate EV technology with ease.
At Lights On Electric, we’re proud to help homeowners power their homes and their vehicles safely and efficiently. If you’re considering an EV charger or need your electrical panel evaluated, contact our team today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward a smarter, more sustainable home.