If you’re looking to install an EV charger at home here in Colorado, you’re definitely not alone. More folks across the state are switching to electric vehicles, and for good reason. With more EVs on the road, having a home charger is becoming a must for convenience. Instead of relying on public charging stations, installing a charger at home saves you time, and honestly, can save you money in the long run. Plus, Colorado has some great incentives that can help reduce the installation costs, making it even easier to go electric.
In Colorado, the cost to install a Level 2 home EV charger generally ranges from $750 to $1,500, depending on the equipment, labor, and complexity of installation. Additionally, there are rebates and incentives available that can help reduce costs, making the installation more affordable. This guide will break down all the costs, rebates, and steps involved, so you have a complete picture of what to expect.
So, let’s talk about the different types of EV chargers you can have at home. Basically, you’ve got Level 1 and Level 2 chargers. A Level 1 charger is the basic option—it uses a standard 120-volt outlet, but it’s pretty slow. We’re talking about 2-5 miles of range per hour of charging, which works for plug-in hybrids or if you have a short commute.
But if you’ve got a fully electric car and want to charge it in a reasonable time frame, a Level 2 charger is the way to go. These use a 240-volt outlet, giving you around 10-60 miles of range per hour. It’s a bit of an investment, but it makes life way more convenient if you rely on your EV every day.
Now, let’s get into what it’ll cost you to install a Level 2 charger. First off, the charger unit itself typically runs anywhere from $500 to $700, depending on the features you want. If you want a smart charger that you can control with your phone, that might add a bit to the price tag.
Next, you’ve got labor costs. Here in Colorado, electricians usually charge between $800 and $1,500 for installation. It really depends on how far your electrical panel is from where you want the charger. If it’s close by, it could be cheaper. If we have to run wiring across the house or through some walls, the cost goes up.
Then there’s the permits. Depending on where you live, permit costs in Colorado can range from $100 to $200. We know permits can be a hassle, but they’re there to make sure everything is safe and up to code.
Finally, if your electrical panel is outdated or doesn’t have enough capacity for the charger, you might need an upgrade. This can add another $2,500 to $5,500 to the total cost, but it’s crucial to make sure your home can safely handle the additional load.
Good news—Colorado has some solid rebates and incentives to help with the cost of installing your EV charger. For starters, there’s the Denver Climate Action rebate, which offers around $200 per charger for residential installations. Depending on where you live, this could cover a nice chunk of the cost.
Utility companies like Poudre Valley REA and Xcel Energy also have rebate programs. For example, Xcel Energy offers up to $500 in rebates if you install a Level 2 charger at home. Make sure to check with your local utility provider to see what they offer. These programs can really help bring the overall cost down and make your switch to electric a lot more affordable.
Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect when we install an EV charger at your house:
Once we’re finished, we’ll test everything to make sure your new charger is working properly, and you’re good to go!
There are a few extra things to keep in mind when you’re installing an EV charger. First, the cost of charging at home in Colorado is roughly $0.13 per kWh. That means a full charge for most EVs will cost around $9, which is pretty economical compared to gas.
Also, check with your utility about time-of-use rates. Charging during off-peak hours can save you some money. Lastly, remember to have your charger inspected every so often to make sure it’s in good condition and safe to use.
Installing a Level 2 EV charger at home here in Colorado is a solid investment. It’s convenient, cost-effective, and there are plenty of rebates available to help with the initial costs. Plus, having a charger at home means you’re ready to hit the road every morning without worrying about finding a public station.
If you’re thinking about making the jump, give us a call to get an assessment. We’re here to make sure your installation is safe, efficient, and up to code so you can enjoy all the benefits of driving electric.
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