- Call or Text (206) 656-3532 (ELEC)
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💡 Load-sharing devices could save you thousands on installation costs!
When planning to install an EV charger at home, many Seattle-area homeowners are surprised to hear:
🚧 “You’ll need a complete electrical panel upgrade first.”
This unexpected requirement can turn a simple installation into a major renovation, adding thousands to your budget. But before committing to that costly upgrade, there’s a smart alternative—load-sharing devices.
The typical Level 2 EV charger requires a dedicated 40-50 amp circuit. However, in older homes throughout Seattle, Tacoma, and Bellevue, electrical panels often don’t have enough capacity for an additional high-demand circuit.
Many electricians will recommend a full EV Charger Panel Upgrade (also called a service upgrade), which includes:
✅ Replacing your existing electrical panel
✅ Upgrading service lines from the utility company
✅ Obtaining permits & passing inspections
✅ Ensuring your system meets modern electrical codes
💰 Cost of a Panel Upgrade in Seattle Metro: $2,500 – $6,000+
While this is necessary for some homes, many homeowners can install an EV charger without this major expense—thanks to load-sharing technology!
A load-sharing device (also called power-sharing or load-balancing device) is a smart solution that allows your EV charger to share power with an existing 240V circuit—like your electric range, dryer, or water heater.
🔹 Monitors power usage on your existing 240V circuit
🔹 Directs full power to your EV charger when the appliance isn’t running
🔹 Automatically balances power when both are in use
🔹 Prevents circuit overload by adjusting charging rates dynamically
✅ This means you don’t need a dedicated EV charger circuit—saving you thousands!
Load-sharing technology is a great fit for homeowners who:
✔ Have an electrical panel that’s at full capacity
✔ Already have at least one 240V high-power appliance circuit
✔ Want to avoid a costly panel upgrade
✔ Drive moderate daily distances (50-70 miles per day)
🚗 Example:
Many homeowners in Redmond, Kirkland, and Renton have installed EV chargers without a panel upgrade, using this smart load-balancing solution.
⏳ This works particularly well for commuters who charge overnight when other high-draw appliances aren’t in use.
💵 Cost to Upgrade Electrical Panel: $2,500 – $8,000+
💵 Cost to Install Load-Sharing Device: $500 – $1,500
Check out Seattle City Light’s EV Charger Rebate Program
💡 For many Seattle homeowners, this cost difference makes EV charging immediately accessible rather than a long-term financial hurdle.
Load-sharing devices aren’t ideal for every situation. You might still need a panel upgrade if:
❌ Your home lacks an existing 240V circuit to share
❌ You drive long daily distances & need faster charging
❌ You own multiple EVs that require simultaneous charging
❌ Your electrical service is already undersized for your home’s needs
⚡ In these cases, a panel upgrade may be the better long-term solution.
✅ A licensed electrician can evaluate your home to recommend the most cost-effective option.
Even though load-sharing technology is smart, proper installation is key!
🔹 Why Hire a Licensed Electrician?
✅ Safe integration with your home’s electrical system
✅ Compliance with Seattle, Tacoma & Bellevue building codes
✅ Correct configuration to avoid overload issues
✅ Protects your EV charger’s warranty
⚠️ A DIY installation could result in power failures, safety hazards, or voided warranties. Trust the professionals!
Thinking about installing an EV charger panel upgrade in Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond, or Tacoma?
🚀 Let’s find the best solution for your home—without unnecessary upgrades!
📞 Call (206) 656-3532 or request a quote online today!
💡 Our experts can assess whether load balancing is the right choice for you—saving you thousands while keeping your EV fully charged.
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