How Long Does It Take to Install an EV Charger
How Long Does It Take to Install an EV Charger in Colorado
If you recently bought an electric vehicle, you probably feel a mix of excitement and a little anxiety. The excitement comes from quiet acceleration and lower fuel costs. The anxiety usually shows up when you realize your Level 1 charging cord only adds four or five miles of range per hour.
That is often the moment Colorado homeowners start looking into home EV charger installation and wondering how long the entire process actually takes.
The good news is that installing a Level 2 home EV charger is usually faster and easier than most people expect. The main exception is when your home’s electrical system needs a few upgrades before the charger can be safely added.
GO EV Colorado helps drivers understand what to expect, connect with qualified, licensed electricians, and take advantage of available incentives that can offset installation costs.
This guide explains the typical installation timeline, the electrical upgrades that can affect the schedule, and why working with the right licensed electrician matters for both speed and safety.
What Affects EV Charger Installation Time
Most home installations take only a few hours once the electrician arrives. However, the total project timeline can change based on several key factors. Some are predictable. Others show up only after an electrician takes a closer look at your electrical panel and wiring.
Condition of the Electrical Panel
Your electrical panel is the first and most important variable. A Level 2 EV charger needs a dedicated circuit, enough available amperage, and space for a new breaker.
If your home has a modern 200 amp panel with open breaker slots, installation usually moves quickly.
If the panel is older, full, or already serving heavy loads, the electrician may recommend an electrical panel upgrade before installing the charger.
Panel upgrades add time because they require:
- A permit
- An inspection
- A complete replacement of the existing panel
While this step takes longer, it significantly improves safety and electrical capacity. It also prepares your home for future additions like hot tubs, pool equipment, heat pumps, or new kitchen appliances.
Location of the Charger
The distance and path between your electrical panel and the charger mounting location have a major impact on installation time.
Examples:
- Mounting the charger on a wall just a few feet from the panel is usually fast and straightforward.
- Running wiring across a finished garage, up a wall, through an attic, or out to a detached garage or carport adds time and complexity.
Longer wire runs, finished surfaces, and outdoor mounting can all extend the installation window.
Type of Charger
Not all Level 2 chargers are the same. They vary in amperage and wiring requirements.
For example, a 48 amp charger requires larger wire and a higher capacity circuit than a smaller 30 amp unit.
Higher amperage chargers demand:
- More detailed load calculations
- Careful wire sizing
- Additional time verifying that the system stays within safe operating limits
Permits and Inspections
In Colorado, most Level 2 EV charger installations require an electrical permit.
For many homeowners, the permit process is straightforward, but timelines can vary by city or county. After the electrician completes the installation, a local inspector must verify that the work meets National Electrical Code (NEC) safety standards and any local code requirements.
Condition of Existing Wiring
Existing wiring plays a big role in how quickly an installation can be completed. Old wiring, damaged wires and cables, or loose connections inside a junction box can slow things down.
A licensed electrician will correct these issues before finishing the job. This helps prevent short circuits, electric shock hazards, and long term electrical system problems.
Typical EV Charger Installation Timeline in Colorado
Most homeowners want a clear answer: how long does it take to install an EV charger in Colorado
In a typical home that does not require major electrical upgrades, the installation itself usually takes two to four hours. This covers:
- Mounting the charger
- Running a dedicated circuit from the panel
- Pulling and connecting the wiring
- Testing the unit with a voltage tester
- Verifying safe operation under load
Here is how a common project timeline looks from start to finish.
Step 1. On Site or Virtual Assessment
Many homeowners start with a virtual estimate using photos and basic information. Others benefit from an in person assessment.
During this step, the electrician will:
- Inspect or review your electrical panel
- Confirm available breaker capacity
- Discuss the preferred charger location
- Identify any obstacles such as long wire runs or finished surfaces
An assessment typically takes around thirty minutes.
Step 2. Permit Approval
Once you approve the estimate, your electrician applies for the required permit.
In many Colorado communities, EV charger permits are processed relatively quickly. Timelines often range from one day to one week, depending on the municipality and workload. Once the permit is approved, the installation day can be scheduled.
Step 3. Installation Day
On installation day, the electrician arrives with the necessary materials and tools. A standard Level 2 installation usually takes two to four hours.
Typical steps include:
- Preparing the work area and protecting nearby surfaces
- Mounting the charger on the wall or pedestal
- Running conduit if needed
- Pulling wire from the electrical panel to the charger location
- Making all electrical connections at the panel and charger
- Testing the system with appropriate instruments
- Verifying that the charger operates correctly with your vehicle
Step 4. Inspection
After the installation is complete, the city or county inspector visits your home to confirm that the work meets code requirements.
Inspections commonly occur within a few days of installation, depending on the local schedule. Once the inspector signs off, you can use your charger freely and keep documentation for your records.
How Long Does It Take an Electrician to Install an EV Charger
For a standard home with adequate panel capacity and a straightforward wire run, a licensed electrician can usually finish the charger installation in two to four hours.
The job may take longer when:
- Drywall must be opened and patched
- Wiring must be run through long or complex routes
- Multiple chargers are being installed for a two EV household
- Load management devices or dedicated circuits are added for other large appliances
If your home needs an electrical panel upgrade, that work typically requires six to eight hours and may be scheduled on a different day from the charger installation.
The 80 Percent Rule for EV Charging
The 80 percent rule is an important part of the National Electrical Code. It states that continuous electrical loads should not exceed 80 percent of a circuit’s rated capacity.
EV chargers operate for extended periods, which classifies them as continuous loads.
For example:
- A 50 amp circuit can safely supply up to 40 amps continuously
- This helps keep wires, connections, and breakers within safe temperature limits
Following this rule reduces the risk of overheating and electrical fires. Qualified Colorado electricians who install EV chargers regularly are familiar with this requirement and size circuits accordingly.
Can a Normal Electrician Install an EV Charger
Any licensed electrician is allowed to install an EV charger. However, EV charging involves more than simply connecting a few wires. It often requires:
- Detailed load calculations
- Knowledge of manufacturer specifications
- Experience with panel upgrades and load management
- Familiarity with local permitting and inspection processes
That is why many Colorado homeowners prefer electricians who install EV chargers regularly and understand the specific demands of high load, long duration equipment.
GO EV Colorado can help you find experienced installers who focus on EV charging and related electrical upgrades.
Tesla Charger Installation vs Other Brands
Tesla Wall Connectors are popular because of their reliability, sleek design, and seamless pairing with Tesla vehicles. They provide fast Level 2 charging and are engineered specifically for Tesla models.
Other Level 2 brands such as ChargePoint, Emporia, and many others are designed to work with nearly all electric vehicles.
In most homes, installation time for a Tesla Wall Connector is similar to the timeline for other Level 2 chargers. The main differences involve:
- Charger amperage and wiring requirements
- Mounting preferences and cable management
- Compatibility and features like Wi Fi connectivity or usage tracking
Tesla owners often prefer Tesla branded equipment, while drivers of mixed or non Tesla EV households may choose a universal charger. An experienced electrician can help you select and install the best option for your home and driving habits.
Permit Requirements in Colorado
Because Level 2 EV charger installations add a dedicated circuit and increase your home’s electrical load, most Colorado jurisdictions require an electrical permit.
The permit process:
- Ensures that the installation follows NEC and local safety standards
- Confirms that your home’s electrical system can support the new charger
- Provides documentation for insurance and future real estate transactions
Many Colorado cities and counties issue EV charger permits within one to seven days. Inspections usually follow shortly after installation. Your electrician will normally handle the permit application, inspection scheduling, and final paperwork.
Why Work with GO EV Colorado and Qualified Installers
GO EV Colorado exists to make driving electric easier. That includes helping you:
- Understand the home charging process
- Connect with qualified, licensed electricians across Colorado
- Learn about rebates, tax credits, and local incentives that can reduce your total cost
Experienced EV charger installers bring:
- Deep knowledge of residential electrical systems
- Familiarity with Level 2 charger brands and settings
- Clear explanations of panel capacity, load management, and future expansion
- Clean, efficient work that respects your home and your time
Many of these electricians also offer additional electrical services such as panel upgrades, dedicated circuits, outlet and wiring repairs, and home electrical safety inspections.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an EV charger install take
Most home Level 2 installations take about two to four hours once the electrician is on site. This assumes your electrical panel has enough capacity and space for a new breaker and the charger location is reasonably close to the panel.
How long does it take an electrician to install an EV charger
A licensed electrician typically completes a standard installation within a few hours. Projects that require long wire runs, panel upgrades, or additional load management equipment will take longer.
What is the 80 percent rule for EV charging
The 80 percent rule states that continuous electrical loads should not exceed 80 percent of a circuit’s capacity. Because EV chargers run for long periods, they count as continuous loads and must follow this safety standard.
Can a normal electrician install an EV charger
Yes, any licensed electrician can install a charger. However, you will usually get faster, safer results by choosing an electrician who regularly installs EV chargers and understands the specific code requirements and load calculations involved.
Do you need a permit for EV charger installation in Colorado
In nearly all cases, yes. Most Level 2 charger installations in Colorado require an electrical permit. Your electrician typically handles the permit and inspection process on your behalf.
How long does it take to get a permit in Colorado
Many Colorado cities and counties issue EV charger permits within one to seven days. Timelines vary by municipality and workload.
Conclusion
Installing a Level 2 charger at home is one of the most valuable upgrades you can make for daily EV convenience. Once permits are in place, the actual installation is usually fast and straightforward when performed by an experienced, licensed electrician.
Whether your home needs only a simple charger install or a full electrical panel upgrade, understanding the process helps you plan confidently and avoid surprises.
GO EV Colorado can connect you with qualified installers, help you navigate incentives, and support you on your journey to cleaner, more convenient electric driving.
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