Installing EV Chargers in Orlando can be a difficult task, But knowing the proper steps can save you time. The city of Orlando has been at the forefront of innovation when it comes to electric vehicles (EVs). As of 2021, there were over 5,000 registered EVs in Orange County alone, and this number continues to grow every year. With the rise of electric vehicle adoption in Central Florida, homeowners who have made the switch or are planning to make the switch are looking for ways to charge their cars at home.
This article will take you through everything you need to know about installing an EV charger in your Orlando home, including costs, different types of chargers, and which companies are licensed to install them in the state of Florida.
Cost to Install EV Chargers in Orlando, FL: How Much Does It Really Cost?
Installing an EV charger in your Orlando home is not simply a matter of installing a new piece of equipment — it involves having the appropriate wiring installed, obtaining the necessary permits, evaluating safety, and possibly upgrading the electrical panel. As such, understanding the cost to install an EV charger in Orlando FL allows homeowners to have confidence in their budget and avoid costly surprises down the road.
Factors that Impact the Total Cost to Install EV Charger in Orlando FL
The overall cost of installing EV chargers will depend upon a number of significant factors, which include:
- Level 1: Uses a standard household outlet (120V) and is the slowest option.
- Level 2: Requires a dedicated 240-volt charging station and can charge faster than Level
- DC Fast Charging: Is the fastest option but requires a special high-power charging station that’s usually installed by public charging stations.
Distance from Electrical Panel
More distance means additional wiring and conduit, adding both labor and material costs.
Capacity and age of Electrical Panel
In many of the neighborhoods in Winter Garden, Conway, Avalon Park, and South Orlando, there is a good chance that the homeowner’s electrical panel will require an upgrade to accommodate EV charging.
Condition of Home Wiring
In older homes located in areas such as Pine Hills, Colonialtown, and Delany Park, it is possible that the homeowner will need to update the wiring for both safety reasons and to support EV charging.
Orange County permit requirements
Before a dedicated EV charging circuit can be installed in Orlando, the homeowner must obtain the necessary electrical permits.
Estimated Cost Range For Orlando Homeowners
Typically, homeowners can anticipate paying anywhere from:
- $950 – $1,600 for a typical Level 2 charger installation
- $1,600 – $3,200 if a panel upgrade is needed or the wiring run is longer
- $2,500 – $4,500 if the installation of a Tesla charger includes a panel upgrade
For most homeowners, while they think that EV charger installation is going to be very expensive, the benefits associated with the long-term convenience, reduced fuel costs, and increased value of the home typically far exceed the initial investment.
How the Process for Installing EV Chargers in Orlando Works
Installing EV charger installation in Orlando requires a licensed and insured electrician who understands EV electrical loads, Florida state building codes, and the permitting requirements of the City of Orlando. Uniquely, unlike installing a basic appliance, EV chargers draw large continuous loads that require properly sized wiring, breakers, and safety devices.
Steps Involved In Installing EV Chargers Installation Process
Below is a step-by-step outline of how a professional electrician would complete the installation from start to finish:
Electrical On-Site Inspection
The electrician inspects your electrical panel, available space on your breakers, condition of your wiring, and your charging needs.
Choosing the Right EV Charger
The electrician will assist you in deciding between different EV charger models (i.e., Tesla, ChargePoint, Wallbox, JuiceBox, etc.).
Obtaining the Necessary Permits (City of Orlando and/or Orange County)
As required by both the City of Orlando and Orange County, permits must be obtained prior to installing a dedicated EV charging circuit. These permits protect your home and keep your insurance valid.
Electrical Panel Upgrade (if required)
Due to outdated 100-amp electrical panels in older neighborhoods (i.e., College Park, Sanford, etc.), some homes will require an electrical panel upgrade to support EV charging.
Installation of the Dedicated 240-Volt Circuit
The electrician will perform this task and it will involve running the new wiring and conduit, installing the breaker, and installing the EV charging station.
Testing of the EV Charger
The electrician tests to confirm that the EV charger supplies the correct voltage, amperage, and continuously operates safely.
Final Inspection
Both the City of Orlando and/or Orange County will inspect the installation to confirm compliance with local electrical codes and safety standards.
Why You Should Never Attempt to DIY Installing EV Chargers Yourself
Because of the high electrical loads involved in EV charging, the potential fire hazards, and the fact that warranties do not apply unless installed by a licensed electrician, Florida state law prohibits individuals from attempting to install EV chargers themselves. Additionally, a DIY installation may also void your homeowners’ insurance.
Additionally, homeowners in areas such as Waterford Lakes, Vista East, and Maitland should never attempt to hire a handyman to perform the installation.
Choosing the Best EV Charger for Your Home in Orlando FL
Not all EV chargers are created equal. The best charger for your home will depend upon your driving habits, the type of EV you own, and the electrical capacity of your home. As you plan your Orlando FL EV charger installation, you should be aware of the various charger types and the features of each type that make them suitable for your specific needs. Beyond basic power output, homeowners should also consider smart-charging capabilities, Wi-Fi connectivity, energy-use monitoring, and compatibility with future vehicle upgrades.
Every EV model charges differently, so selecting the right home charging station installation in Orlando means choosing a charger that aligns with your daily commute, your battery size, and how quickly you want to recharge. Understanding these factors early helps you avoid unnecessary upgrades later and ensures your charging setup remains efficient, safe, and convenient for years to come.
Level 1 Chargers – Basic But Slower Than Ideal
A Level 1 charger utilizes a standard 120-volt outlet and provides approximately 3-5 miles of EV range per hour. Although acceptable for occasional use, Level 1 chargers are generally too slow for most Orlando area commuters.
Suitable for:
- Plug-in hybrids
- Low mileage drivers
- Temporary charging configurations
Level 2 Chargers – The Gold Standard for Orlando Homes
Level 2 chargers are the fastest and most convenient option for EV owners. Benefits include:
Fastest charging times (approximately 20-40 miles per hour)
- Will work with most EV models
- Best option for daily commuting in the Orlando area
- Can fully charge your EV every night
Examples of popular Level 2 chargers include:
- Tesla Wall Connector
- ChargePoint Home Flex
- JuiceBox 40
- Wallbox Pulsar
All of these chargers require the installation of a 240-volt circuit by a licensed electrician.
Level 3 (DC Fast Chargers) – Not Suitable for Residential Installation
Level 3 chargers, which are similar to those commonly used in public charging stations, require a level of electrical service and power that is typically only available in commercial environments. Therefore, Level 3 chargers cannot be installed in residential homes.
Why Orlando Homeowners Are Choosing to Installing EV Chargers Today
Thanks to growing tourism, growing environmental concerns, and growing demand for EVs in the Central Florida region, Orlando has emerged as one of the top cities in the nation for EVs. Neighborhoods such as Lake Nona, Horizon West, Baldwin Park, Hunter’s Creek, Windermere, and Celebration are leading the way.
Reasons why homeowners are installing EV chargers today include:
- Convenience – Charge your EV overnight without standing in line.
- Cost Savings – Home charging is less expensive than using public charging services.
- Increased Home Value – Potential buyers prefer homes that are EV ready.
- Faster Charging Times – Up to 10X faster than standard outlets.
- Smart Charging Energy Monitoring – Track your energy consumption.
- Preparing for Future Demand – Statewide EV demand is growing rapidly.
Since more EVs like Tesla, Rivian, Ford Lightning, Mercedes EQ, and Hyundai IONIQ are being sold in Orlando, installing an EV charger is becoming increasingly important.
Will You Require an Electrical Panel Upgrade to Support EV Charging?
Many homeowners in older Orlando communities (Winter Park, Conway, Colonialtown, Audubon Park, etc.) have 100-amp electrical panels that will likely not be able to support the large load of a Level 2 EV charger.
A licensed electrician will evaluate whether your existing electrical panel will be capable of supporting:
- A 40-50 amp breaker
- Continued EV charging load
- Future upgrades (pool pumps, solar panels, hot tubs, etc.)
If so, a 200-amp electrical panel upgrade may be recommended.
Permitting and Code Compliance for EV Chargers in Orlando
Prior to installing an EV charging station, the City of Orlando and Orange County require that the homeowner obtain the necessary electrical permits. The permits ensure:
- Properly sized breaker
- Safely wired installation
- Appropriate conduit selection
- Presence of GFCI protection (where applicable)
- Pass inspection for insurance compliance
Homeowners in Winter Park, Sanford, Oviedo, and Altamonte Springs must comply with their respective permitting regulations as well. The licensed electrician will handle all of the necessary permits for you.
Why Hiring a Licensed Electrician for Your EV Charger Installation in Orlando Matters
There are no exceptions when working with high-power electrical equipment. Professional installation is mandatory. By hiring a licensed electrician, you ensure:
- Compliance with local electrical codes and safety standards
- Properly sized breakers and wires
- Safe connections to your electrical panel
- Surge protection systems
- Optimized charging performance
- Warranty compliance
In high-growth neighborhoods such as Lake Nona, Kissimmee, Winter Park, Laureate Park, and Windermere, homeowners can ill-afford the risk of unprofessional installation that could result in fires, shorts, and/or system failure.
Closing Thoughts – Get Started Down the Road of Installing Your Home EV Charger Correctly
Installing EV chargers in your Orlando home is perhaps one of the wisest decisions you can make as an EV owner. EV chargers provide you with greater convenience, lower charging costs, higher property values, and ensure that your vehicle is always ready to go out onto the road. Due to the increasing number of EV owners in the Orlando area, and specifically in neighborhoods such as Lake Nona, Horizon West, Winter Garden, Oviedo, Winter Park, and Altamonte Springs, now is the perfect time to invest in a reliable home charging station.
Regardless of whether you need assistance selecting the right charger, upgrading your electrical panel, or installing a dedicated 240-volt circuit, a licensed electrician will ensure that your system is operating efficiently, safely, and complies with all of the relevant City of Orlando electrical code requirements.
