EV Chargers: What You Need to Know

Answers to the most common questions about home EV charger installation
Thinking about installing an EV charger at home or for your property? Whether you’re new to electric vehicles or just exploring your options, Perry Electric Service is here to help you understand what’s involved. No guesswork, no jargon.
Types of EV Chargers Explained
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Level 1:
Uses a standard 120V outlet. Slow — adds ~4 miles of range per hour. OK for plug-in hybrids or very light use. -
Level 2:
Requires a 240V connection. Adds ~25–35 miles of range per hour. Ideal for overnight home charging and commercial use. This is what we install most often. -
DC Fast Charger:
Industrial-grade charging for public stations and fleet infrastructure. Not used in homes.
What Affects Installation Cost?
Pricing depends on a few key factors. We’ll review all of these with you during your quote:
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Distance from your panel to the charger location
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Whether your panel has enough capacity
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If trenching, conduit, or exterior work is needed
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Brand of charger (Tesla, JuiceBox, Wallbox, etc.)
We provide honest, up-front quotes so there are no surprises.
Do I Need a Panel Upgrade?
Most homes with 200-amp service can support a Level 2 charger without an upgrade. If your panel is smaller or already near capacity, we’ll walk you through the options — including adding a subpanel, load management, or smart breaker options.
Can You Install a Charger Outside?
Yes. Many of our installations are outdoor-rated, including:
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Driveways
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Parking pads
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Exterior walls (even without a garage)
We use weatherproof conduit and charger models rated for New England conditions.
Are There Any Incentives or Rebates?
Depending on your utility company and location, there may be rebates or tax credits available for EV charger installations.
We can help point you to current programs in:
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Massachusetts (Eversource and National Grid)
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New Hampshire (Eversource, Unitil)
What’s the Installation Process Like?
- Virtual or in-person quote
- We assess your panel, charger location, and permit needs
- You get a clear, written estimate
- We schedule your install — often within a week
- Fast, code-compliant installation by a licensed electrician
Most jobs are completed in a single visit.
Can I supply my own charger?
Yes — we install customer-provided units and can also supply one if you prefer.
Do you install for condos or shared lots?
We can assess shared spaces and work with HOAs. You may need pre-approval.
How soon can you schedule an install?
In most cases, within a week after quoting.
Ready to get a quote for your EV charger install?
Perry Electric Service
MA License A11893
NH License M7955