EV charger installation
A dedicated Level 2 circuit and charger installed safely, with a check of your panel’s capacity first.
EV charger installation: an overview
Charging an electric vehicle from a standard outlet works, but slowly. Most EV owners eventually want a Level 2 charger, which runs on a 240-volt circuit and can refill a battery overnight. Installing one is straightforward when the panel has the capacity, and more involved when it doesn’t.
We start by checking your panel and existing loads to make sure a charger can be added safely. Then we plan the location, run a dedicated circuit sized for the charger and install either a hardwired unit or the appropriate outlet, depending on the charger you choose and its instructions.
If your panel is already full or near capacity, we’ll explain the options, which may include a panel upgrade or a charger with load-management features. We do this work under electrical contractor license TECL #21849.
What’s included
What this work typically covers. Your scope depends on your home and equipment.
Capacity check
Panel and service review before anything is installed.
Location planning
Garage, carport or driveway placement that fits your parking.
Dedicated circuit
A circuit sized for your charger, run from the panel.
Charger mounting
Hardwired installation or the correct outlet for plug-in units.
Outdoor considerations
Weather-appropriate equipment and protection for outdoor installs.
Testing
Verification that the charger operates correctly.
Before you buy a charger
- Check whether your panel has open spaces
- Decide where you’ll park and charge
- Consider whether you might add a second EV later
- Read the charger’s installation requirements
- Ask us about permits for your location
Why homeowners call Kelm for ev chargers
Licensed electrical contractor
Work is performed under TECL #21849, and owner Clint Kelm is a Texas Master Electrician (TMEL #510665).
Permits handled
We tell you when a job needs a permit and inspection, and we take care of both.
Part of a full-service family
Plumbing, standby generators and construction are handled by the Kelm family of services, which makes multi-trade projects simpler.
Local to Santa Fe
We’re based in Galveston County and work across Brazoria, Galveston and Harris counties.
How it works
From your first call to a finished, tested job.
Call
Tell us about your vehicle, charger and parking.
Check capacity
We review your panel and loads.
Plan
We choose the location and circuit approach.
Install
Circuit, mounting and connections.
Test
We confirm the charger works and walk you through it.
EV Chargers FAQ
Common questions about this service.
Do I need a panel upgrade for an EV charger?
Not always. It depends on your current service and loads. A capacity check tells you.
Hardwired or plug-in?
Both can work. The charger’s instructions and your setup determine the right approach.
Can I install it outside?
Yes, with equipment rated for outdoor use and proper protection.
Will an EV charger work with my generator?
It can, but EV charging is a large load. We’ll talk through how it fits your generator setup.
Get an estimate for ev chargers
Tell us about your home and the work you need. We’ll follow up by your preferred method.
Related services
Panel Upgrades
Safe capacity for the way your home uses power today, installed by a licensed Texas electrical contractor.
Learn moreWiring & Rewiring
New circuits, remodel wiring and rewiring for older homes, done to code by a licensed electrical contractor.
Learn moreGenerator Hookups
Safe generator connections and transfer switches, coordinated with Kelm Power Systems for full standby installs, service and monitoring.
Learn moreTroubleshooting & Repair
Tripping breakers, dead outlets, flickering lights and mystery problems, tracked down methodically and fixed safely.
Learn more