As of the end of July 2024, only about five percent of the active listings in Scottsdale and 2.5% of homes in the Phoenix area have an electrical vehicle (EV) charging station. In the greater Phoenix area, homes with EV charging stations closed for an average of 3.7% higher/SquareFoot than homes without EV charging stations; in Scottsdale, the homes that sold with an EV charging stations sold for an average of 21.9% more than homes that do not have an EV charging station. It is clear that more expensive homes are more likely to have EV charging stations, but even when one pulls data only for homes in Scottsdale between 2000-3000 SqFt, homes with EV charging stations sold for 6.5% more than those without this feature during the past 30 days. (Data gathered from the Arizona Multiple Listing Service July 20, 2024)
Installing an electric vehicle (EV) charging station at your house involves several steps, from assessing your electrical system to selecting the right equipment and arranging for professional installation. Here’s a comprehensive guide:
Installation Guidance
- Assess Your Electrical System
Electrical Capacity
Ensure your home’s electrical system can handle the additional load of an EV charger. Most Level 2 chargers require a 240-volt outlet.
- Circuit Breaker Panel
Check if there’s space for a new dedicated circuit breaker. You might need an upgrade if your panel is full.
Choose the Right EV Charger
Level 1 Charger
Uses a standard 120-volt outlet. Slower charging (typically adds 4-5 miles of range per hour).
Level 2 Charger
Requires a 240-volt outlet. Faster charging (typically adds 25-30 miles of range per hour).
- Smart Features
Consider chargers with Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring and control, scheduling, and energy usage tracking.
Select the Location
Proximity to Parking
Install the charger near where you park your vehicle. Ensure the cable can comfortably reach the car’s charging port.
Weather Protection
If installing outdoors, choose a weatherproof charger or install it in a sheltered area.
Consult with Professionals and Determine Local Regulations
Professional Assessment
A licensed electrician can assess your electrical system and determine if any upgrades are needed.
Permit and Inspection
Depending on your local regulations, you might need a permit and inspection for the installation.
Installation Process
Electrical Work
The electrician will install a dedicated circuit and the necessary wiring for the EV charger.
Mounting the Charger
The charger will be mounted on a wall or a pedestal, and connected to the electrical system.
Testing
Ensure the charger is properly installed and test it to make sure it’s working correctly.
Set Up and Configuration
Connect to Wi-Fi
If your charger has smart features, connect it to your home Wi-Fi network.
App Configuration
Download the manufacturer’s app to monitor and control the charger, set up charging schedules, and view energy usage.
Rebates and Incentives
Local Incentives
Check for any local, state, or federal incentives, rebates, or tax credits for installing an EV charger.
Utility Programs
Some utility companies offer rebates or lower rates for EV charging during off-peak hours.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Regular Checks
Periodically inspect the charger and cables for wear and tear.
Troubleshooting
Refer to the manufacturer’s manual or app for troubleshooting tips. Contact the manufacturer’s customer support for assistance if needed.
Costs
The cost to install an EV charging station in your home in the Phoenix area can vary significantly based on several factors. Here are the key details:
Charger Type
Level 1 Chargers (120 volts): These can be plugged into a standard outlet and typically cost between $160 and $260 to install. These are slower chargers and might not be sufficient for all EV owners.
Level 2 Chargers (240 volts): These require a dedicated circuit and are faster. The installation costs for these range from $1,000 to $2,200, including both the charger and labor (Bob Vila) (ProMatcher).
Labor Costs
Labor costs for installing a Level 2 charger can range from $500 to $1,700. This can include installing a new 240-volt outlet, running wiring, and wall mounting the station (HomeGuide) (HomeYou).
Additional costs may be incurred if your home’s electrical panel needs an upgrade to handle the new circuit. Upgrading to a 200-amp service can cost between $1,800 and $2,500 (HomeGuide) (ProMatcher).
Location
Installing the charger indoors typically costs between $800 and $1,500, whereas outdoor installations can range from $800 to $2,500 due to the need for weatherproofing and other considerations (Bob Vila).
Other Factors
The cost of the charger itself can range from $500 to $1,600 depending on the brand and features.
Additional accessories, such as cable organizers or Wi-Fi signal boosters, may add to the cost (Bob Vila)(HomeGuide).
Permits and Incentives:
Permits for electrical work can cost between $50 and $200. It's also worth checking for any local incentives or rebates that could reduce the overall cost (HomeGuide) (HomeYou).
To get the most accurate estimate, it's recommended to contact several local electricians for quotes and check if there are any available rebates or incentives that could help offset the cost.
Example Installation Scenario
Step 1
Assess electrical system: Home has a 200-amp panel with available space for a new circuit.
Step 2
Choose a Level 2 charger with Wi-Fi connectivity for faster charging and smart features.
Step 3
Select location: Garage wall near the parking spot, within reach of the car’s charging port.
Step 4
Hire a licensed electrician: Electrician confirms electrical system can handle the load and obtains necessary permits.
Step 5
Installation: Electrician installs a 240-volt outlet, mounts the charger, and connects it to the electrical system.
Step 6
Set up and configuration: Connect charger to Wi-Fi and configure the app for remote monitoring and scheduling.
Step 7
Rebates and incentives: Apply for local utility rebate for installing a Level 2 charger.
By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and efficient process for installing an EV charging station at your home, providing convenience and reliability for your electric vehicle charging needs.
