Planning to install an EV charger at home? Smart move. With electric vehicles gaining popularity throughout Washington, homeowners are making the upgrade to private charging solutions. Knowing where to place your unit is just as important as choosing the right equipment. That’s why understanding the top 5 EV charger spots at Spokane homes helps you make a confident and informed decision.
Proper placement enhances safety, convenience, and long-term value. Whether you park in a garage, under a carport, or in your driveway, your charging setup should match your lifestyle. Let’s break down the five most effective residential EV charger placements and how Spokane homeowners can get started the right way.
Why Charger Placement Matters
Homeowners often overlook the role that location plays in EV charger performance. However, poor placement can increase installation costs, create safety risks, or lead to inefficient charging routines. Choosing the right location means:
- Shorter wiring distances
- Lower installation costs
- Improved cable management
- Enhanced user convenience
- Better protection from the elements
Spokane electricians know how to optimize for panel proximity, access, and environmental exposure. That’s why working with a local expert ensures the best outcome for your property.
1. Interior Garage Wall (Closest to Parking Spot)
The most common and practical location for Spokane homeowners is inside the garage. Mounting a Level 2 charger on the interior wall directly adjacent to your vehicle creates a safe and protected setup.
Advantages:
- Full protection from weather
- Reduced risk of damage or tampering
- Simple, fast installation
- Lowest-cost option in most cases
If your electrical panel is located in the garage, your licensed electrician can install the charger on the same wall to reduce wiring and material costs. Charging indoors also extends the life of your unit.
2. Exterior Garage Wall Facing the Driveway
Not every homeowner uses their garage for vehicle storage. If you regularly park in your driveway, an exterior garage wall installation provides reliable and accessible charging without blocking the garage itself.
Advantages:
- Easy access from the driveway
- Minimal disruption to the home’s interior
- Easier for multi-car households
- Works well with surface-mounted conduit
Make sure your electrician installs weatherproof housing and cold-weather-rated components. Spokane’s winters require equipment that can endure snow, wind, and freezing temperatures.
3. Detached Garage or Workshop Wall
Many Spokane homes feature a separate garage or workshop away from the main residence. Mounting your charger on the exterior or interior of this structure often proves practical, especially for rural properties.
Advantages:
- Keeps your main panel and living space untouched
- Ideal for homes with subpanels in the shop or garage
- Simplifies wiring if the panel is already nearby
- Provides flexibility for vehicle movement or RV storage
A certified electrician will evaluate whether your subpanel has the capacity to support a Level 2 charger. If not, they can advise on upgrade options or alternative power routing.
4. Carport Support Beam or Column
If you use a carport rather than an enclosed garage, mounting the charger to a nearby structural column offers an efficient solution. Your Spokane electrician can safely anchor the unit, route power discreetly, and protect the equipment from direct exposure.
Advantages:
- Closer to parking position than remote wall mounting
- Easy installation with weather-resistant units
- Preserves yard or driveway space
- Keeps charging cable elevated and clean
Outdoor-rated EV chargers work well in this scenario when installed with proper shielding and sealed enclosures.
5. Freestanding Pedestal Near Driveway
When no structure exists nearby—or when aesthetics and layout demand flexibility—a pedestal-mounted charger gives you full control. This is especially useful for large properties or homes with long driveways.
Advantages:
- Fully customizable location
- Can serve two parking spaces
- Ideal for high-end or new construction homes
- Works well for short-term rentals or guest charging
Installing a pedestal requires trenching, conduit runs, and a secure foundation. Your electrician will handle local code requirements and any necessary permits.
Factors That Affect Placement Choice
Selecting the right charger location means balancing several factors. Spokane homeowners should consider the following during planning:
- Distance to electrical panel: Shorter distances reduce cost and complexity
- Weather exposure: Installations must withstand local conditions year-round
- Cable reach and management: Cord length must safely span from charger to vehicle
- Aesthetics and property layout: Location should enhance, not disrupt, your home’s exterior
- Security and accessibility: Placement should reduce theft risk while maximizing ease of use
An expert electrician can walk through your property, review these considerations, and propose the most practical, compliant layout for your home.
Need Help with Your EV Charger Installation?
Choosing the right placement is just the beginning. You also need an electrician who understands the code requirements, panel capacity, and Spokane permitting process. A trusted expert ensures your system performs safely and efficiently—without surprises.
Explore your EV charging options and discover what setup makes the most sense for your property. Our team works with homeowners across Eastern Washington, ensuring clean, compliant installations that last.
Visit VPC ELectric EV Charging Station services page for full details.
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FAQs
1. Can I install a home EV charger in my Spokane driveway without a garage?
Yes. Many Spokane homes rely on outdoor parking. A weather-rated charger can be mounted to an exterior wall, post, or pedestal. A licensed electrician will install proper insulation, conduit, and weatherproof materials to meet code and protect your unit.
2. Does my electrical panel need an upgrade for a Level 2 charger?
Possibly. Older Spokane homes with 100-amp panels may lack the capacity to handle the 40-amp draw required by most Level 2 chargers. An electrician will inspect your panel and recommend whether an upgrade or subpanel is necessary.
3. Is trenching always required for outdoor EV charger installations?
Not always. Trenching is only necessary when the power source must run underground to a remote location (like a pedestal or detached structure). If the charger is mounted to an exterior wall near the panel, trenching is usually not needed.
Final Thoughts
Installing an EV charger at your Spokane home improves convenience, adds value, and supports clean transportation. But placement matters. The right location can lower installation costs, simplify your daily routine, and keep your system running efficiently for years.
These top 5 EV charger spots at Spokane homes give you a solid starting point. For personalized recommendations and code-compliant installation, consult with a certified electrician who understands Spokane’s climate, electrical infrastructure, and permit process.
Power your future—place your charger right.