Expert EV Charger Installation in Bend, OR
Power up your electric vehicle conveniently at home or your business. Alker Family Electric provides professional EV charging station installation services throughout Bend and Central Oregon.
- Licensed & Insured for Your Peace of Mind (CCB #242826)
- Reliable Installations Backed by a 1-Year Warranty
- Serving Bend & Central Oregon Since 2020
Charge Your EV Faster and More Conveniently at Home
Are you tired of mapping out public charging stations across Bend or relying on the slow trickle charge from a standard wall outlet? Owning an electric vehicle offers incredible benefits, from environmental consciousness to fuel savings, but true convenience comes with efficient home charging. Installing a dedicated home EV charger, typically a Level 2 unit, transforms your EV ownership experience. Imagine the ease of plugging in your car when you arrive home and waking up every morning to a fully charged battery, ready for your commute down the Parkway, errands around town, or weekend adventures exploring the stunning landscapes of Central Oregon. Forget range anxiety and the time spent waiting at public chargers.
Alker Family Electric specializes in making this upgrade seamless, safe, and tailored to your specific needs. We assess your home’s electrical system, recommend the right charger for your vehicle and driving habits, and perform a professional installation that complies with all safety codes. We ensure your electrical panel can handle the load, run dedicated wiring cleanly, and install your chosen charger precisely. With a professionally installed home EV charging station in Bend, your electric vehicle is always ready for the road ahead, maximizing the convenience and enjoyment of driving electric.
Why Install a Dedicated EV Charger?
Upgrading from a standard outlet to a dedicated EV charging station offers significant advantages for electric vehicle owners in Bend. It’s an investment in convenience, efficiency, and potentially even your home’s value. Here’s why making the switch is a smart move:
Maximum Convenience
This is the primary driver for most installations. A dedicated home charger means your vehicle charges while you sleep, work from home, or relax. Plug in when you arrive, and unplug when you leave with a full battery. Eliminate the need to detour to public charging stations, wait for an available spot, or spend time monitoring charging progress away from home. It seamlessly integrates charging into your daily routine.
Faster Charging Speeds
Standard 120-volt outlets (Level 1) add only about 3-5 miles of range per hour of charging. A professionally installed Level 2 charger, operating on 240 volts, dramatically cuts down charging time. Depending on the charger’s amperage and your vehicle’s capabilities, you can expect to add 15 to 60 miles of range per hour. This means even if you arrive home with a low battery, your EV will likely be fully charged overnight, ready for any journey the next day.
Potential Cost Savings
While installing a charger is an upfront investment, charging at home is generally much cheaper per kilowatt-hour than using public charging networks. Furthermore, many utility providers offer time-of-use plans, allowing you to schedule charging during off-peak hours (usually late at night) when electricity rates are lowest, further reducing your “fueling” costs compared to both gasoline and public EV charging.
Increased Home Value
As electric vehicles surge in popularity throughout Bend and Central Oregon, homes equipped with dedicated EV charging stations are becoming increasingly desirable. It’s a modern amenity that appeals to a growing segment of homebuyers, potentially increasing your property’s marketability and value should you decide to sell. It signals a forward-thinking, energy-conscious home.
Optimized for Your Vehicle & Safety
A professional installation ensures the charger is perfectly matched to your vehicle’s charging capacity and your home’s electrical system. Using a dedicated circuit installed by a licensed electrician minimizes the risk of overloading existing circuits, preventing potential electrical hazards like tripped breakers or, in worst-case scenarios, electrical fires. It guarantees safe and efficient power delivery to protect your vehicle’s battery and your home.
Ready to Discuss Your Electrical Needs
Contact us today to discuss your project in Bend, OR.
Types of EV Chargers We Install
Choosing the right EV charger depends on your vehicle, driving patterns, budget, and existing electrical infrastructure. Alker Family Electric has the expertise to install the most effective charging solutions for homes and businesses across Bend. Here’s a breakdown of the common charging levels:
Level 1 Chargers
Level 1 charging utilizes a standard 120-volt household outlet, the same kind you plug a lamp or toaster into. Most electric vehicles come with a mobile connector cable that allows for Level 1 charging.
- Pros: No special installation is required if a suitable outlet is conveniently located. It's the most basic charging method available.
- Cons: Charging speed is extremely slow, typically adding only 3-5 miles of range per hour. For most EV owners, this is insufficient for daily driving needs and is often considered only for emergencies or occasional top-ups for plug-in hybrids with small batteries.
- Our Recommendation: While we can ensure an existing outlet is safe and properly grounded, we generally recommend upgrading to Level 2 for primary home charging due to the significant speed limitations of Level 1.
Level 2 Chargers (Recommended for Home & Workplace)
Level 2 chargers are the most common and practical solution for residential and many commercial EV charging needs in Bend. They offer a significant improvement in charging speed over Level 1.
- Technology: These chargers operate on a 240-volt circuit, similar to what powers an electric clothes dryer or oven. Installation requires running a dedicated circuit from your electrical panel to the charger location (typically a garage, carport, or driveway).
- Charging Speed: Depending on the charger's amperage (ranging from 16A to 80A, though 30A-50A is common for homes) and your vehicle's onboard charger capabilities, Level 2 chargers typically add 15-60 miles of range per hour. This allows for a full charge overnight for most EVs.
- Installation: Requires professional installation by a licensed electrician like Alker Family Electric to ensure safety, code compliance, and optimal performance. We handle the circuit installation, wiring, breaker installation, and charger mounting.
- Brands: We are experienced installers for a wide variety of reputable Level 2 charger brands, including popular choices like JuiceBox, ChargePoint, Tesla Wall Connectors, ClipperCreek, and more. We can help you select a charger that fits your budget, features (like Wi-Fi connectivity and smart scheduling), and vehicle compatibility.
DC Fast Chargers (Primarily Commercial)
DC Fast Charging (sometimes referred to as Level 3) offers the quickest charging times available, capable of adding hundreds of miles of range in under an hour.
- Technology: These systems bypass the vehicle's onboard AC-to-DC converter and supply high-voltage DC power directly to the battery. They require substantial electrical infrastructure, typically 480 volts or higher, and significant power capacity.
- <strongUse Cases: Due to their high cost and complex power requirements, DC Fast Chargers are primarily found at public charging stations along major routes, commercial fleet depots, or specific business locations aiming to offer rapid charging as a service.
- Our Services: While installation in a typical Bend home is generally impractical and cost-prohibitive, Alker Family Electric has the expertise to consult on and install DC Fast Charging stations for commercial and industrial applications in Central Oregon. We can assess site feasibility, manage the complex installation process, and coordinate with utility providers.
Our EV Charger Installation Process in Bend
At Alker Family Electric, we prioritize a smooth, safe, and transparent installation process from start to finish. We understand that adding a dedicated circuit is significant electrical work, and we ensure it’s done right. Here’s what you can expect when you choose us for your home or commercial EV charger installation in Bend:
Initial Assessment & Consultation
The process begins with understanding your specific needs. We’ll discuss your electric vehicle model (its charging capacity matters), your daily driving habits (how many miles you typically drive), and your preferred location for the charger (garage, exterior wall, etc.). Critically, we’ll perform an on-site assessment of your home’s or business’s existing electrical panel. We check its total capacity, available breaker space, and the general condition of your electrical system to determine if it can safely accommodate the new charger circuit or if an upgrade might be necessary. We also plan the wiring route from the panel to the charger location.
Transparent Quote
Based on the detailed assessment, we provide a clear, comprehensive, and upfront quote. This quote will itemize all aspects of the job, including the cost of the recommended EV charger (if you’re purchasing it through us, or just the installation labor if you provide your own), all necessary materials like wiring, conduit, the dedicated circuit breaker, and any mounting hardware. It also covers the labor costs for our licensed electricians and includes the fees for securing the required electrical permit from the City of Bend or relevant Deschutes County jurisdiction. There are no hidden fees – you’ll know the full cost before work begins.
Professional Installation
Once you approve the quote, we schedule the installation at a time convenient for you. Our team of qualified and licensed Bend electricians (CCB #242826), working under the supervision of Master Electrician Nick Alker (Supervisor License C173S), will perform the installation. This involves carefully running the new dedicated 240-volt circuit from your electrical panel to the desired charger location, installing the appropriate circuit breaker in the panel, and securely mounting your EV charger. We take pride in our work, ensuring wiring is run neatly and discreetly (using conduit where necessary), and we always maintain a clean work area, respecting your property. All work strictly adheres to the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local Bend regulations.
Testing & Handover
After the physical installation is complete, safety and functionality are paramount. We thoroughly test the new circuit and the EV charger itself to confirm everything operates correctly and safely. We verify proper voltage, grounding, and communication between the charger and your vehicle (if possible). Once testing is successful, we provide a brief demonstration on how to operate your new charger, explain any smart features it may have, and answer any questions you might have. We ensure you are comfortable and confident using your new home or commercial charging station before we consider the job complete. Our commitment includes leaving the work area as clean as we found it.
Tesla Wall Connector Installation
Tesla vehicles are incredibly popular in Bend, and the Tesla Wall Connector is the manufacturer’s recommended home charging solution for optimal speed and convenience. Alker Family Electric provides expert installation services specifically for Tesla Wall Connectors. We understand the unique requirements and specifications set by Tesla to ensure your charger delivers the maximum charging rate your vehicle can handle (up to 48 amps, depending on the circuit and your Tesla model).
Our electricians ensure the installation is not only code-compliant with Bend and Oregon regulations but also aligns perfectly with Tesla’s guidelines for performance and warranty preservation. We install the correct gauge wiring and circuit breaker, ensure proper mounting, and can even configure power-sharing setups if you plan to install multiple Wall Connectors. Choosing a professional installer familiar with Tesla products guarantees a safe, reliable, and aesthetically pleasing setup for your Model 3, Model Y, Model S, or Model X.
Commercial EV Charging Solutions for Bend Businesses
As electric vehicle adoption accelerates in Central Oregon, offering EV charging is becoming a valuable amenity for businesses. Alker Family Electric partners with Bend businesses to design and install effective commercial EV charging solutions that can attract customers, satisfy tenants, retain employees, and support electric fleet operations. We provide comprehensive installation services tailored to various commercial properties:
- Retail Locations & Shopping Centers: Attract EV-driving shoppers and encourage longer visits by offering convenient charging spots.
- Offices & Workplaces: Enhance employee benefits and support sustainable commuting practices with workplace charging.
- Multi-Family Housing (Apartments, Condos): Add a highly sought-after amenity for residents in Bend's competitive rental and housing market.
- Hospitality (Hotels, Restaurants): Cater to traveling EV owners and local patrons seeking a charge while they stay or dine.
- Fleet Charging Depots: Ensure your company's electric vehicles are always ready for service with reliable overnight or daytime charging infrastructure.
Our commercial process includes a thorough site assessment to determine optimal charger locations, power availability, and potential infrastructure needs. We help you select the right type and number of chargers, considering factors like usage patterns, desired charging speeds, and network capabilities (e.g., payment processing, access control). We have experience installing various commercial-grade chargers, including networked solutions from brands like ChargePoint. Alker Family Electric manages the entire installation, from permitting and electrical work to final setup and testing, ensuring your Bend business is equipped to meet the growing demand for EV infrastructure.
Safety, Compliance & Quality Guaranteed
Working with your property’s electrical system, especially installing high-power circuits required for Level 2 EV chargers, demands expertise and strict adherence to safety standards. Attempting a DIY installation or hiring an unqualified individual poses significant risks, including electrical shock, fire hazards, and damage to your expensive electric vehicle. At Alker Family Electric, your safety and the integrity of our work are our top priorities.
Licensed & Qualified Professionals
We are a fully licensed electrical contractor in Oregon (CCB #242826). All installations are performed by experienced journeyman electricians under the direct oversight of our licensed supervising electrician, Nick Alker (C173S). Our team receives ongoing training to stay current with the latest technologies and code requirements.
Strict Code Compliance
Every EV charger installation we perform strictly adheres to the National Electrical Code (NEC), specifically Article 625 (Electric Vehicle Charging System), as well as all state and local amendments enforced by the City of Bend and Deschutes County. This includes proper circuit breaker sizing, wire gauge selection, GFCI protection where required, disconnect means, and correct grounding. We handle all necessary permitting and inspections.
High-Quality Materials
We don’t cut corners. We use only high-quality, UL-listed electrical components, including appropriate wiring (typically THHN/THWN in conduit or NM-B cable where permitted), industrial-grade receptacles if applicable, and reliable circuit breakers from reputable manufacturers, all rated for the specific demands of continuous EV charging loads.
1-Year Workmanship Warranty
We are confident in the quality of our installation work. Alker Family Electric stands behind every EV charger installation with a comprehensive 1-year warranty covering our workmanship. If any issues arise due to the installation itself within that period, we will promptly return to correct it at no charge. This provides you with peace of mind knowing your investment is protected.
Choosing Alker Family Electric means choosing a safe, compliant, and reliable EV charging solution built to last.
Ready to Install Your EV Charger in Bend or Central Oregon?
Stop planning your days around public charging stations and start enjoying the full convenience of your electric vehicle. Make charging effortless and ensure your EV is always ready to go with a professionally installed charging station from Alker Family Electric. Our licensed, experienced electricians provide safe, reliable, and code-compliant installations for homeowners and businesses throughout Bend and the surrounding Central Oregon region.
Contact the expert team at Alker Family Electric today for a free, no-obligation assessment and quote for your home or commercial EV charger installation project. Let us help you power your electric future!
Phone: (541) 604-5771
Service Areas: Proudly serving Bend, Redmond, Sisters, La Pine, Powell Butte, Terrebonne, and surrounding Central Oregon communities within approximately a 30-mile radius of Bend.
EV Charger Installation FAQs
Here are answers to some common questions we receive about installing EV chargers in the Bend area:
The cost can vary significantly based on several factors specific to your property. Key variables include the type and brand of charger you choose, the distance between your main electrical panel and the desired charger location (longer distances require more wiring and labor), the current capacity of your electrical panel (if it’s older or full, a panel upgrade might be necessary at additional cost), and the local permit fees. Because of these variables, we provide a detailed, personalized quote only after conducting an on-site assessment. Generally, expect costs to range from several hundred to a few thousand dollars.
For a standard Level 2 charger installation where the electrical panel has sufficient capacity and the wiring run is straightforward, the physical installation typically takes our electricians between 3 to 6 hours to complete on the scheduled day. Installations requiring more complex wiring routes, conduit work, or those necessitating an electrical panel upgrade will naturally take longer, potentially spanning a full day or more. We provide a time estimate along with our quote.
Yes, absolutely. Installing a new dedicated 240-volt circuit, which is required for Level 2 EV chargers, constitutes major electrical work and requires an electrical permit from the City of Bend Planning Department or the relevant authority for your specific location in Deschutes County. Obtaining a permit ensures the work is inspected for code compliance and safety. Alker Family Electric handles the entire permitting process for you as part of our service, including application and scheduling inspections.
Yes, our experienced electricians can install virtually any major brand of Level 2 EV charger available on the market. We regularly install Tesla Wall Connectors, ChargePoint Home Flex, JuiceBox, ClipperCreek, Wallbox, Grizzl-E, and many others. If you’ve already purchased a charger, we can install it for you. If you need help choosing, we can discuss the features, benefits, and costs of different models to help you select the best charger for your specific vehicle, budget, and charging needs.
The main difference is charging speed, dictated by voltage and amperage. Level 1 uses a standard 120-volt household outlet and delivers power very slowly, adding only about 3-5 miles of driving range per hour of charging. Level 2 utilizes a 240-volt circuit (like an electric dryer) and provides much faster charging, typically adding 15-60 miles of range per hour, depending on the charger’s output and the car’s ability to accept the charge. Level 2 is the practical standard for convenient daily home and workplace charging.
Charging an electric vehicle will naturally increase your electricity consumption, which will be reflected on your utility bill. However, the cost per mile driven is typically much lower when charging at home compared to the cost of gasoline. For example, driving 1,000 miles might cost $30-$60 in electricity (depending on your vehicle’s efficiency and local rates) versus $100-$200+ in gasoline. To minimize costs, check if your utility provider offers time-of-use rates, allowing you to schedule charging during cheaper off-peak hours (usually overnight).
It depends. Our initial assessment includes a thorough evaluation of your electrical panel. If your panel is outdated (e.g., a Zinsco or Federal Pacific panel, known for safety issues) or lacks the physical space or electrical capacity for a new 240-volt circuit breaker, you might need an electrical panel upgrade or replacement before installing an EV charger. In some cases, load management devices can be used. We will clearly explain the situation and provide options, including a quote for any necessary panel work. Alker Family Electric also offers comprehensive Electrical Panel Replacement & Upgrades services.