Do you need an electrical panel upgrade for your EV?

You're about to install an EV charger in your garage when a thought pops up: Can my home's electrical system actually handle this?

It's a smart question to ask. The good news is that most modern homes with 200-amp panels can support an EV charger without major upgrades. But about 20% of homes need additional electrical work beyond basic charger installation, according to data from Qmerit. The specifics depend on factors like your home's existing electrical capacity, the age of your panel, and how much power your household already uses.

Understanding whether you need an upgrade—and what your options are—can save you time, money, and headaches down the road.

The simple answer: It depends on your current setup. Most Level 2 EV chargers (the standard for home charging) require a dedicated 240-volt circuit with 40 to 60 amps of power. That's roughly the same as an electric dryer, but you'll likely be using it much more frequently—potentially every night. Here's how to figure out where you stand.

Check your panel's amperage

Start by taking a look at your electrical panel. The main breaker (usually at the top or bottom of the panel) should have a number printed on it—typically 60, 100, or 200 amps. This tells you the maximum capacity of your panel.

• If you have a 200-amp panel: You're in great shape. Most 200-amp panels are designed to handle the electrical demands of modern homes, including EV chargers. As long as your panel isn't already operating near capacity (which would be unusual for most households), you shouldn't need an upgrade.

• If you have a 100-amp panel: This was the standard for decades and is common in homes built more than 20 years ago. A 100-amp panel may struggle to support both modern appliances and an EV charger simultaneously. But you may be able to use a work around—like circuit-sharing and load-shedding devices—to avoid a full panel upgrade.

• If you have a 60-amp panel: You'll definitely need to upgrade. A 60-amp panel is insufficient to safely run modern appliances alongside an EV charger. Upgrading to 200-amp service is recommended for both safety and convenience.

Consider your electrical load

Amperage capacity is only part of the equation: You also need to consider how much electricity your home is already using. A licensed electrician can perform a load calculation that factors in your home's square footage, major appliances, heating and cooling systems, and other electrical demands.

If you're already running multiple high-draw appliances (think: central air conditioning, an electric water heater, an electric stove, and an electric dryer), adding an EV charger could push a 100-amp panel over its limit. This can lead to tripped breakers, flickering lights, or, in worst-case scenarios, safety hazards.

Look at available circuit slots

Even if you have enough amp capacity, your panel needs space for a new circuit breaker. Each circuit requires a slot (or two slots for a 240-volt circuit). If your panel is full, you'll need to create space somehow—either by removing unused circuits, installing tandem breakers that fit two circuits into one slot, or adding a sub-panel.

Evaluate potential warning signs

Circuit breakers that frequently trip, lights that flicker or turn off when you turn on major appliances, and outlets that don't work properly point to the need for an electrical panel upgrade. These issues reveal that your panel is struggling to handle your home's electrical load—and that’s before adding an EV charger.

Not every home needs a complete electrical panel replacement. In fact, circuit-sharing and load-shedding devices have become the industry standard for many installations, according to Joe Miller, Director of Technical Support at Qmerit. He told EnergySage that he advises electricians to use innovative devices whenever possible, such as.

• Load management systems: These devices monitor your home's real-time power consumption and automatically adjust your EV's charging rate based on available capacity.

• Circuit-sharing devices: As the name implies, this device allows two appliances to safely share the same circuit. For example, you could have your electric clothes dryer and EV charger on the same circuit, as you’ll likely use the dryer during the day and charge your EV overnight.

• Sub-panels: A sub-panel connects to your main panel and creates extra circuit slots for future electrical needs. 

A complete panel upgrade typically runs $3,000 to $5,000 or more when you factor in the panel, labor, permits, and any utility involvement. While this isn't cheap, it's a long-term investment that enhances your home's safety, increases property value, and positions you for a fully electrified future. According to Qmerit data, the costs break down like this:

EV incentives can offset costs

EV charger incentives can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses. One of them, the 30C Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Tax Credit, provides up to 30% of the total cost of installation (up to $1,000) for qualifying customers—check your eligibility using the Department of Energy's mapping tool. Also note: This EV tax credit expires June 30, 2026.

Utility companies and local governments may have additional EV charger incentives. For example, Pacific Gas & Electric offers up to $3,000 for customers who install bidirectional EV charging systems. Ask your installer about available programs in your area or check the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE).

Most modern homes can support an EV charger without major electrical work, but if you’re in that 20% statistic that does, you may want to consider cost-effective alternatives like load management systems to avoid the need for a complete panel upgrade. If a full upgrade is necessary, it's an investment that enhances safety, increases home value, and prepares your house for the electrified future.