Most EV owners install a 240-volt Level 2 charger at home for faster overnight charging. A licensed electrician should check your panel capacity with a load calculation, run a properly sized dedicated circuit, and pull any required local permit. If you have solar, a charger that follows solar output can help when the car is home during the day.
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Most electric vehicle charging happens at home, overnight. A standard 120-volt outlet (Level 1) adds only a small amount of range per hour, which is enough for some drivers but too slow for many. A 240-volt Level 2 charger is what most EV owners eventually install.
Level 1 vs. Level 2
- Level 1 uses a regular household outlet and the cord that often comes with the car. It needs no installation, but charging is slow.
- Level 2 runs on a 240-volt circuit, like a dryer or range. It charges several times faster and suits daily driving and longer commutes. It requires a dedicated circuit sized for the charger.
What the installer will check
- Electrical panel capacity. Many older Metro Atlanta homes have panels without much spare capacity. An electrician should do a load calculation before adding a large new circuit. Load-management devices or a lower charging setting can sometimes avoid a costly panel upgrade.
- Circuit and wiring. The circuit, breaker, and wire size must match the charger's rating and the electrical code. Outdoor installations need suitable weather-rated equipment.
- Location. The charger should reach your parking spot without stretching the cable across walkways.
- Hardwired vs. plug-in. Some chargers plug into a 240-volt outlet, while others are hardwired. Your installer can explain the code requirements for each.
Permits and licensing
Adding a 240-volt circuit is electrical work. In Georgia, electrical contracting is licensed by the State Construction Industry Licensing Board, and most local jurisdictions require a permit for new circuits. Ask the installer for their license number and verify it with the Georgia Secretary of State.
Charging with solar
If you have or plan to add solar, an EV can soak up a lot of that production. Keep in mind that most charging happens at night, when panels aren't producing. Unless you can charge during the day or have a battery, solar mostly offsets EV charging on paper through your utility's crediting arrangement, which varies by utility. Some chargers can be set to follow solar output, which helps if your car is home during the day.
Utility rates and programs
Georgia Power and some EMCs have offered EV-related rate plans or programs, such as time-of-use pricing that makes overnight charging cheaper. These change, so check your utility's current offerings before you decide when and how to charge.
Charger safety
- Choose a charger listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.
- Avoid extension cords and adapters for regular charging.
- Watch for warm plugs, outlets, or breakers, which are signs of a problem.
Condos, townhomes, and rentals
If you live in a condo or rent, you'll need permission from the HOA or landlord, and the electrical service may be shared. Start that conversation early.
Ready to charge at home? Request a licensed installer serving your area.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a Level 2 charger?
Not always. If you drive modest daily distances and can plug in for long periods, Level 1 from a standard outlet may be enough. Most drivers who want faster, more flexible charging choose Level 2.
Will I need a panel upgrade for an EV charger?
Sometimes. An electrician should perform a load calculation. Load-management devices or a lower charging setting can sometimes avoid an upgrade on panels with limited spare capacity.
Do I need a permit to install an EV charger in Georgia?
Adding a 240-volt circuit is electrical work, and most local jurisdictions in Metro Atlanta require a permit. A licensed electrical contractor should pull it and arrange any inspection.