As more Chicagoland homeowners switch to electric vehicles (EVs), the demand for home EV chargers is growing rapidly. However, a crucial factor that many people overlook is whether their home’s electrical system is equipped to handle an EV charger.
A smooth transition to EV ownership requires more than just plugging in a charger—you’ll want to:
- • Evaluate your electrical panel
- • Determine the best charger for your needs
- • Consider future home upgrades, assess whether you need a ComEd service upgrade
- • Take advantage of available rebates and incentives, and address potential installation challenges.
The Penco Electric & Generators team is here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring that your home is EV-ready, safe, and optimized for efficiency.
Step 1: Evaluate Your Electrical Panel – Can It Handle an EV Charger?
Your home’s electrical panel is the central hub for distributing power. If it lacks sufficient capacity, installing an EV charger could lead to overloaded circuits, breaker trips, or even electrical hazards.
Common Electrical Panel Capacities:
- • 60-amp & 100-amp panels– Found in older homes, often not sufficient for an EV charger and modern appliances.
- • 150-amp panel– Can support an EV charger but may limit future home upgrades.
- • 200-amp panel (or higher)– Ideal for homeowners planning to install an EV charger and other high-powered home additions.
How Penco Can Help:
- • Conduct a load calculation to assess your panel’s ability to support an EV charger.
- • Recommend an upgradeif your panel lacks the required capacity.
- • Ensure compliance with safety codes and local regulations.
Step 2: Understanding EV Charger Power Requirements
Before installation, it’s essential to understand the different EV charger levels and their power demands.
Most homeowners opt for a Level 2 charger, which requires a dedicated 240-volt circuit and typically draws 40-60 amps. This often necessitates an electrical panel upgrade.
How Penco Can Help:
- • Assess your current and future power requirements beyond just EV charging.
- • Determine if your home needs a dedicated 240V circuit for the EV charger
- • Ensure efficient power distribution to prevent strain on your electrical system.
Step 3: Consider Your Future Home Electrical Needs
An EV charger isn’t the only upgrade that increases electrical demand. Many homeowners are also considering:
- • Solar panel systems– Requires additional circuits for energy storage and distribution.
- • Home expansions– Adding new rooms, appliances, or lighting increases power demand.
- • High-powered HVAC systems– New heating and cooling units require dedicated circuits.
- • Hot tubs, saunas, or pool equipment– These additions need their own high-amperage circuits.
- • Smart home systems– Energy-efficient and automated devices increase electricity consumption.
How Penco Can Help:
- • Future-proof your electrical system to accommodate upcoming home upgrades.
- • Help you make informed decisions about panel capacity based on planned home additions.
- • Ensure your home’s electrical system grows with your needs instead of requiring frequent upgrades.
Step 4: Do You Need a Utility Service Upgrade from ComEd?
Even if you upgrade your panel, your home may still have limited power supply from ComEd. If your electrical service is restricted to 100-amp or 150-amp, you may need to upgrade to 200-amp or higher to ensure your home can handle an EV charger efficiently.
Why Upgrade Your Service from ComEd?
- • Prevents voltage drops and power fluctuationsthat can affect your EV charger and home electronics.
- • Supports high-powered Level 2 EV chargers for faster, more efficient charging.
- • Improves overall home reliability, reducing breaker trips and power inconsistencies.
How Penco Can Help:
- • Coordinate with ComEd to upgrade your electrical service as needed.
- • Handle the paperwork and permits for a smooth process.
- • Ensure your home has the power capacity needed for long-term electrical reliability.
Step 5: Take Advantage of EV Charger Rebates and Incentives
Installing an EV charger and upgrading your electrical panel can qualify you for financial incentives that help offset costs.
ComEd Rebates for EV Chargers
- • Rebates available for Level 2 chargers when you enroll in time-of-use electricity rate programs.
- • Energy efficiency incentives for electrical panel upgrades supporting EV charging.
Federal Tax Credits for EV Charger Installations
The federal government offers a 30% tax credit (up to $1,000) for EV charger installation costs.
Important Disclaimer:
Rebates and incentives frequently change, and eligibility depends on specific program requirements. Be sure to check with ComEd, federal agencies, or local municipalities for the latest information.
Step 6: Addressing Common Installation Challenges & Costs
Potential Installation Challenges:
- • Distance from the electrical panel to the charger– Longer distances may require additional wiring or trenching.
- • Permit Requirements– Some Chicagoland municipalities require inspections and permitting before installation.
- • Space Constraints– Limited space in the electrical panel may require modifications.
Typical Costs for EV Charger Installation in Chicagoland
- • Basic Level 2 Charger Install:$500 – $2,500
- • Electrical Panel Upgrade (100A to 200A):$1,500 – $5,000
- • ComEd Service Upgrade: Varies based on location and utility requirements
How Penco Can Help:
- • Evaluate your installation site for potential challenges before work begins.
- • Ensure compliance with local permitting and electrical codes.
- • Provide a transparent quote with no hidden costs.
Frequently Asked Questions About EV Charger Installation in Chicagoland
Q: Do I need to upgrade my electrical panel for an EV charger?
A: If your home has a 100-amp or 150-amp electrical panel, you may need an upgrade to 200 amps to support a Level 2 EV charger. Penco Electric & Generators can assess your home’s capacity and recommend the best solution.
Q: How much does it cost to install an EV charger?
A: Costs vary depending on installation complexity, distance from the panel, and necessary upgrades. Expect $500 – $1,500 for a basic installation and $1,500 – $5,000+ if a panel upgrade is required.
Q: Are there rebates for installing an EV charger?
A: Yes! ComEd offers rebates, and federal tax credits can cover up to 30% of installation costs. Be sure to check official sources for the latest incentives.
Ready to Upgrade Your Electrical System? Contact Penco Electric & Generators Today!
Call us at: (847) 925-7618
Email us at: info@pencoelectricinc.com
Visit us at: pencoelectricinc.com
Future-proof your home’s electrical system—get EV-ready today with Penco!
