3 MIN. READ
Key takeaways:
- EV adoption is up in Central Florida, but not all homes are ready for EV charging.
- Before you look into EV charging home installation, you might need to plan a few electrical upgrades.
- Homes with the right infrastructure for EV charging often sell faster and reach higher sale prices.
Did you know that a majority of EV owners prefer charging at home? It’s cheaper, more convenient, and provides 24/7 charging access.
However, not all homes have the right electrical infrastructure to handle an EV charger. Whether you’re thinking about getting an EV or just want to modernize your home, you should make a few electrical upgrades to future-proof your home and prepare it for EV charging home installation.
What Does It Mean for a Home to Be EV-Ready?
Level 2 EV chargers need a dedicated 240V circuit that draws a continuous load. Your Central Florida home needs a few electrical features to safely power one of these chargers:
- Pre-installed conduit or wiring. Setting up a home for EV charging means running an electrical conduit or preparing wiring from the panel to the location where the charger will go. If you handle this during construction or renovation, it’s much cheaper than opening up walls later.
- Dedicated panel capacity. Level 2 chargers draw a continuous load that can go from 16 to 80 amps, depending on the charger. Your home’s electrical panel needs to have enough space for an EV charger breaker and enough capacity to accommodate this amperage.
- Outdoor-rated electrical boxes in the right spot. You can either hardwire your EV charger or plug it into a dedicated outlet for a portable installation. If this is your preferred option, you will need a NEMA 14-50 outlet with a protective box that can withstand heat and storms.
- There are also a few rules to follow when mounting your charger. Clearing a space in your garage or driveway now will make the installation easier later.
Getting your home ready for EV charging is different for every property. While some will only need minor upgrades, others will need major electrical work, such as getting a new panel. EVPlugz can assess your current electrical infrastructure and make some personalized recommendations.
Why EV-Ready Homes Sell Faster (and for More)
Have you noticed more EVs on the roads lately? You’re not imagining it. EV registrations went up by 15% between 2023 and 2024 in Central Florida, and this trend is here to stay.
For many buyers, a home ready for EV charging is a must-have:
- Listings with “EV-ready” in the description get more views and attract more buyers.
- With the right electrical infrastructure in place, installing an EV charger is more economical and simpler. This makes the home more valuable and means buyers are willing to spend a little more.
- Your EV-ready home will stand out compared to other properties in your area. You’ll likely get more offers and find yourself in a position to pick your buyer.
Preparing your home for EV charging also has immediate benefits. An updated electrical infrastructure makes your home safer and can help you unlock a better homeowner’s insurance rate. It could also save you money:
- If you have an old panel, replacing it can eliminate energy losses and reduce your bills.
- Some new panels come with smart features that allow you to control your energy usage to avoid demand charges on your bills.
- With a newer panel, you can replace old gas-powered appliances with energy-efficient electrical options.
- Increasing your panel’s capacity also allows you to replace your old HVAC system with a heat pump to cut your heating and cooling costs.
Get Your Home EV-Ready With EVPlugz
At EVPlugz, we specialize in future-proofing homes. We can guide you through every step of the process, from the initial assessment to the completion of your electrical upgrades. We’ll handle the planning, get the right permits, and ensure that the electrical work we do is up to code and scalable.
Let’s discuss how to prepare your home for EV charging. Call 321-549-7002 or contact us online to get started.
FAQ
What does “EV-ready” mean for my home?
An EV-ready home has the right wiring in place and enough panel capacity to accommodate a Level 2 EV charger.
How much does adding an EV charging setup increase home value?
Central Florida homes offering EV charging often sell faster. Buyers are also willing to spend more for a home with a modern electrical infrastructure.
What permits do I need for EV charger installation?
Central Florida cities and townships require electrical permits for new wiring, circuit upgrades, or panel additions linked to EV chargers. EVPlugz manages these steps and schedules the inspection.
Can I add EV charging to older homes?
Yes, but older homes may need electrical panel upgrades or rewiring. Before installation, have a licensed electrician review your setup and make recommendations.
