Panel Capacity Checker
Most Bay Area homeowners can install a Level 2 EV charger without upgrading their panel. Find out where you stand in 2 minutes — using the same NEC 220.87 methodology licensed electricians use.
The #1 question we get at ChargeWizards: 'Can my 100A panel handle a Level 2 EV charger?' The answer is almost always yes — but it depends on your actual peak load. Under NEC 220.87, an electrician can use 30 days of utility data to calculate your real peak demand, then determine if there's headroom for an EV charger. This tool walks you through a simplified version of that calculation. For panels that are borderline, Dynamic Power Management (DPM) is usually the answer — a CT sensor that throttles the charger automatically when household demand spikes, letting tight panels work safely without an upgrade.
Open your panel door and look at the main breaker — the large breaker at the top. The number (100, 200, etc.) is your panel size.
Electric heat and large AC units are the biggest loads on a panel. Gas appliances reduce your electrical demand significantly.
Electric tank water heaters draw 4,500–5,500 watts — a significant load on a 100A panel.
Each of these draws significant amperage. More large loads = less headroom for an EV charger.
Interactive tool coming soon — or call (650) 542-8877 for an instant quote
How It Works
- 01
Answer 4 questions about your panel size and major electrical loads
- 02
The tool estimates your panel's approximate peak demand using typical load profiles for Bay Area homes
- 03
You'll see whether your panel likely has headroom for a Level 2 charger, or if DPM or an upgrade may be needed
- 04
For a definitive answer, send us your utility data (30-day usage from PG&E, Palo Alto Utilities, etc.) — we'll do the NEC 220.87 calculation free
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready for fast, reliable home EV charging?
Chat with David for a free quote — or call us directly. We typically respond within minutes.
Licensed C-10 contractor · No obligation · Bay Area only