Panel upgrade for an EV charger
A Level 2 charger needs a dedicated 40–60 amp circuit. Whether your panel can take it depends on its size and on what else your home already draws, not just on empty breaker slots.
How to tell if your panel has room
Your electrician does a load calculation: adding up your home's major loads (HVAC, range, dryer, water heater) to see whether the service can carry an EV circuit. Many 200A homes have room. Older 100A services are the most likely to need changes.
Your options, from cheapest
1. A smaller circuit
A 40A circuit (about 32A of charging) is enough for most daily driving and puts less load on the panel.
2. Load management
Some chargers and add-on devices limit charging when the house is using a lot of power, so the circuit can fit within your existing service.
3. Subpanel
If you are out of breaker space but not out of capacity, a subpanel typically costs $500–$2,500.
4. Service upgrade
Upgrading from 100A to 200A typically costs $1,500–$5,500 and usually involves your utility, a permit and an inspection.