Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly common in the Twin Cities — and with good reason. But if you're relying on a standard 120V wall outlet to charge your EV, you're leaving a lot of convenience on the table. Here's what you need to know about upgrading to a Level 2 home charger.

Level 1 vs. Level 2 Charging: What's the Difference?

Level 1 charging uses a standard 120V outlet and adds roughly 3–5 miles of range per hour. For most EVs, a full charge from empty takes 24–40 hours. Level 2 charging uses a 240V circuit (the same voltage as your dryer or range) and adds 20–30 miles of range per hour. A full charge typically takes 6–10 hours overnight.

What Does a Level 2 Installation Require?

A Level 2 EV charger requires a dedicated 240V, 50-amp circuit run from your electrical panel to your garage. The installation includes the circuit breaker, wiring, and a NEMA 14-50 outlet or hardwired EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment). Most installations also require a permit.

Do You Need a Panel Upgrade?

This depends on your current panel's available capacity. A 50-amp EV circuit is a significant load. If your panel is already near capacity — or if you have a 100-amp service — you may need a panel upgrade before the charger can be installed. Your electrician will assess this during the estimate.

Which Charger Should You Buy?

Popular options include the ChargePoint Home Flex, Grizzl-E, and JuiceBox 40. Most Level 2 chargers are compatible with all EVs (Tesla requires an adapter for non-Tesla chargers). Look for a UL-listed charger with at least a 40-amp output and Wi-Fi connectivity for scheduling and monitoring.

How Long Does Installation Take?

Most EV charger installations are completed in 2–4 hours. If a panel upgrade is also required, plan for a full day. We pull the required permits and schedule the inspection as part of our service.

What Does It Cost?

Installation costs vary based on the distance from your panel to the garage, whether a panel upgrade is needed, and local permit fees. Contact Behr Electric for a free estimate specific to your home.