So you just got an electric vehicle—or you're about to. Congratulations. Now comes the part most dealerships don't tell you about: making sure your home is actually ready for it.
Installing an EV charger isn't complicated, but it does require a little preparation. At K.O. Electric, we've installed EV chargers throughout Coeur d'Alene, Post Falls, Hayden, and North Idaho, and we've seen the same questions come up every time. This guide answers all of them.
Before we talk about installation, it helps to understand the two types of home EV charging.
Level 1 Charging
Level 1 charging uses a standard 120-volt outlet—the same kind you plug your phone into. Most EVs come with a Level 1 cord included. It works, but it's slow. Most EVs gain about 3-5 miles of range per hour on Level 1. If you're driving 30-40 miles a day, you're looking at 8-12 hours of charging overnight just to keep up.
For light drivers or plug-in hybrids, Level 1 might be enough. For most EV owners, it gets frustrating fast.
Level 2 Charging
Level 2 charging uses a 240-volt circuit—the same voltage as your dryer or oven. It charges most EVs at 20-30 miles of range per hour, meaning a typical EV goes from near-empty to full overnight in 4-8 hours.
This is what most homeowners want and what K.O. Electric installs. It's faster, more convenient, and adds real value to your home.
Here's what we check before every EV charger installation:
Your electrical panel needs to have enough capacity to support a new 240-volt circuit. Most Level 2 chargers require a 40-50 amp dedicated circuit, which means your panel needs available breaker slots and sufficient amperage.
Many North Idaho homes—especially those built before 2000—have 100-amp panels. Depending on what else is running in your home, a 100-amp panel may or may not have enough capacity for an EV charger. Some do. Some need an upgrade first.
When we come out for a free estimate, we assess your panel first. If an upgrade is needed, we tell you upfront with a clear cost before any work begins.
Your EV charger needs its own dedicated circuit. It can't share a circuit with other appliances. We run new wiring from your electrical panel to the charger location—typically your garage or driveway.
The wire gauge and breaker size depend on the charger you're installing. We size it correctly the first time so you're not dealing with problems down the road.
Where do you want to charge? Most homeowners choose the garage wall nearest to where they park. Others prefer an outdoor outlet if they park in a driveway.
Both work fine. Outdoor installations require weatherproof equipment and proper mounting. We handle all of it.
Not all EV chargers are the same. The main things to consider:
We don't sell chargers, but we work with whatever charger you purchase or can advise you on what to buy before installation.
For most homes, EV charger installation takes 2-4 hours. If your panel has available capacity and the charger location is straightforward, it's a quick job.
If your panel needs an upgrade first, that adds time—typically a full day for the panel work, then the charger installation follows.
We give you a clear timeline before we start. No surprises.
EV charger installation in North Idaho typically ranges from $400 to $1,500 for most straightforward installations. The main cost factors are:
If your panel needs an upgrade to support the charger, that's an additional cost we'll quote separately after assessing your home.
We provide free estimates so you know exactly what you're looking at before committing to anything.
We get this question occasionally. Can't you just hire a handyman or do it yourself?
Technically, a 240-volt circuit installation is not a DIY project in Idaho. It requires a licensed electrician. Beyond the legal requirement, there are practical reasons:
The job isn't complicated when done right. The problems come from cutting corners.
Can I charge two EVs at home?
Yes. We can install multiple chargers or a single charger with load-sharing capability. It depends on your panel capacity. We'll assess and advise.
Will an EV charger increase my electric bill?
Yes, but less than you might expect. Most EV owners find their electric bill increases around $30 a month depending on how much they drive. Many utility providers offer time-of-use rates that let you charge at lower rates overnight—ask Avista or Kootenai Electric about this.
Can I install a charger if I rent?
That's between you and your landlord. The installation itself is no different—but you'd need permission to modify the electrical system.
What if I get a different EV later?
Most Level 2 chargers work with any EV. We install standard J1772 connectors that are compatible with virtually all non-Tesla vehicles. Tesla vehicles use an adapter. If you have a Tesla, we can also install a Tesla-specific charger.
How long will the charger last?
Quality Level 2 chargers typically last 10-20 years with minimal maintenance.
Does my garage need to be drywalled?
No. We work in unfinished and finished garages. Unfinished garages are often easier since we have direct access to the framing for wiring runs.
K.O. Electric installs EV chargers throughout Coeur d'Alene, Post Falls, Hayden, Sandpoint, Rathdrum, and surrounding North Idaho communities.
We'll assess your home's electrical system, recommend the right setup for your vehicle and charging needs, handle permitting, and get you charging fast.
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