EV Charger Installation by an Electrician in Colorado Springs: Your Complete Guide
Driving an Electric Vehicle (EV) is a great step toward a greener future, and nothing makes EV ownership easier than having a dedicated charger right in your garage. For homeowners in the Pikes Peak region, this process requires careful planning and, most importantly, the expertise of a licensed electrician in Colorado Springs.
Here is American Electrician’s guide to a safe and seamless EV charger installation.
Step 1: Choosing the Right Charger for Your Home
The first decision is selecting the right charging level for your needs.
Level 1 Charging (Standard Outlet)
What it is: Uses a standard 120-volt wall outlet (like the one your phone plugs into).
Speed: Very slow. Expect to regain about 2–5 miles of range per hour.
Best for: Plug-in hybrids or drivers with very short daily commutes (less than 30 miles) who can charge overnight. Installation typically requires no electrical work if a grounded outlet is already available.
Level 2 Charging (The Home Standard)
What it is: Uses a 240-volt circuit, similar to an electric dryer or oven. This is the recommended choice for almost all EV owners.
Speed: Significantly faster. Expect to add 25–40 miles of range per hour, fully charging most EVs overnight.
Best for: All-electric vehicle owners and anyone who drives regularly. The professional process for EV charger installation in Colorado Springs is focused on safely connecting this powerful unit.
Note: Level 3 (DC Fast Chargers) are for commercial public use only and are not installed in residential homes.
Step 2: Electrical Panel Assessment (The Critical Step)
A Level 2 charger draws significant power, typically requiring a dedicated 40-amp or 50-amp circuit. Before installation can begin, your electrical panel must be assessed.
Older Homes: If your home has an older 100-amp service panel or one that is already near capacity, a panel upgrade may be necessary to safely handle the new load. Trying to install a high-power charger on an undersized or overloaded panel is a serious fire hazard.
Modern Homes: Newer homes often have 200-amp panels with spare breaker capacity, which makes the installation more straightforward and generally faster.
An experienced electrician will perform a load calculation to ensure your current system can support the charger along with all your existing appliances without risk.
Step 3: Permits and Code Compliance
In Colorado Springs and El Paso County, any permanent electrical work, including installing a 240-volt circuit for an EV charger, requires a permit and inspection by the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (PPRBD).
Why this matters:
Safety: The inspection ensures the wiring, breaker, and installation methods meet the current National Electrical Code (NEC) standards and local ordinances.
Home Value: Permitted electrical work protects you during a future home sale. Work done without a permit can lead to costly repairs down the road.
Your American Electrician professional will handle all the necessary permits and schedule the final inspection, saving you the hassle and guaranteeing compliance.
Step 4: Installation and Final Testing
Once the permits are secured, the physical work begins. This includes:
Running the New Circuit: The electrician installs a dedicated line (wire and conduit) from your main electrical panel to the charger's mounting location.
Mounting the Charger: The charging unit (often called Electric Vehicle Service Equipment or EVSE) is securely mounted in your garage, carport, or other designated area.
Connection and Testing: The circuit is connected to a new breaker in the panel, and the entire system is tested for proper voltage, grounding, and function before the power is energized.
Don't Forget the Savings! Colorado Rebates and Tax Credits
Installing an EV charger can be more affordable than you think. Colorado residents often qualify for a variety of state, federal, and utility incentives that can offset the cost of equipment and installation. Your electrician can provide documentation and guidance to help you take advantage of any available rebates from providers like Colorado Springs Utilities or Xcel Energy.
Ready to make home charging a reality? Contact American Electrician today for an initial assessment and a free quote on your Level 2 EV charger installation.
