Subaru Solterra Level 2 Charger Installation Guide
Home Charging
Subaru Solterra Level 2 Charger Installation Guide
Upgrading from a standard wall outlet to a Level 2 home charger transforms how you own an EV. Here is exactly what you need to know about preparing your Newnan home for a Subaru Solterra charger, from electrical requirements to installation costs.
How do I install a home charger for my Solterra?
To install a Level 2 home charger for your Subaru Solterra, you need to hire a licensed electrician to install a 240-volt circuit (similar to what a heavy electric dryer uses) in your garage or driveway. You can either plug a portable Level 2 charging cable into a NEMA 14-50 outlet or have a permanent, smart charging box hardwired directly to your home’s electrical panel. Hardwiring typically provides a slightly faster and more reliable connection.
If you are buying a Subaru Solterra, relying entirely on public charging or a standard wall outlet will eventually cause friction. A Level 2 home charger is the single best investment you can make in your EV ownership experience.
Why Level 1 Charging Isn’t Enough for Most Commuters
Your Solterra comes with a Level 1 charging cable that plugs into a standard 120V household outlet. While convenient for emergencies, it simply doesn’t add enough miles overnight for the average Georgia commuter.
| Charging Level | Voltage Needed | Estimated Charge Speed | Best Used For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 (Included) | 120V (Standard Outlet) | 3 to 5 miles of range per hour | Short daily drives (under 30 miles), top-offs, or emergency use. |
| Level 2 (Upgraded) | 240V (Dryer-style Outlet / Hardwired) | 20 to 30 miles of range per hour | Full overnight charges; essential for normal daily commuting. |
3 Steps to Install Your Level 2 Charger
1. Panel Assessment
An electrician will inspect your home’s main electrical panel. A Level 2 charger usually requires a dedicated 40-amp to 60-amp circuit. If you have an older home in the Newnan area, you may need a panel upgrade to handle the additional load safely.
2. Choose Hardware vs. Plug-in
You must decide whether to install a simple 240V outlet (NEMA 14-50) and plug in a charging cord, or hardwire a smart charging station (like a ChargePoint or JuiceBox) to the wall. Hardwiring is generally recommended for outdoor installations.
3. Professional Installation
Do not DIY this. A licensed electrician will pull the necessary local permits, run the heavy-gauge conduit to your garage or carport, install the hardware, and test the load to ensure it won’t trip your breakers when the AC kicks on.
Where EV Buyers Go Wrong
Mistake 1: Waiting Until Delivery to Call an Electrician
Electricians are booked out weeks in advance. If you wait until you drive the Solterra home to figure out charging, you will be stuck trickle-charging on a standard outlet for a month. Get quotes while you are completing your vehicle purchase.
Mistake 2: Cheap 240V Receptacles
Not all NEMA 14-50 outlets are built the same. Cheaper outlets bought at big-box hardware stores are meant for dryers that run for 45 minutes, not EVs that pull maximum continuous power for 9 hours. Always specify a “commercial grade” or “EV grade” receptacle to your electrician to prevent melting or fire hazards.
Mistake 3: Forgetting About Wi-Fi Range
If you purchase a “smart” Level 2 charger to track energy usage and schedule charging times to avoid peak Georgia Power rates, it needs a strong Wi-Fi signal. Test your home internet connection in your garage before mounting the unit.
Local Installation Considerations in Newnan
The cost to install a Level 2 charger varies wildly depending on your home’s electrical setup. If your electrical panel is in the garage right next to where you park, installation might only cost $500 to $800. If your panel is in a finished basement on the opposite side of the house, running conduit can push the price between $1,500 and $2,500.
Subaru of Newnan tip: Check with local utility providers like Coweta-Fayette EMC or Georgia Power. They frequently offer rebates for purchasing and installing a Level 2 home charger, and they also offer special EV time-of-use rates where charging overnight costs significantly less.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just use the charger that comes with the Solterra?
Yes, but the included Level 1 charger operates on a standard 120V outlet and only provides about 3-5 miles of range per hour. It is fine for very short commutes, but a Level 2 charger is highly recommended for full overnight charging.
Do I need to buy a specific brand of charger for my Subaru?
No. The Subaru Solterra uses the industry-standard J1772 connector for Level 2 charging. You can use almost any reputable brand of Level 2 home charger, such as ChargePoint, JuiceBox, or Grizzl-E.
How much does it cost to charge a Solterra at home?
This depends entirely on your local Georgia electricity rates. However, charging an EV at home overnight is universally cheaper per mile than buying gasoline or using public DC fast chargers.
Can I install a Level 2 charger outside?
Yes, if you don’t have a garage, you can install a charger outdoors. However, it must be a hardwired installation with weather-rated NEMA 4 enclosures. A simple plug-in outlet is generally not recommended for unsheltered outdoor use.
Ready to Make the Switch to Electric?
The Subaru Solterra gives you standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and legendary Subaru capability, without burning a drop of gas. Browse our current inventory or reach out to our team at Subaru of Newnan to schedule a test drive and ask your home charging questions.