Top EV Electrician Explains What Homeowners Need to Know

In a recent episode of The Good Neighbor Podcast, host Doug Rohan sat down with Mike Pecoraro, owner of Gladiator Electric, a Northern New Jersey-based electrical contractor.

Mike, whose company has been named one of the best EV charger installers by Orange and Rockland Utility Company for the second year in a row, shared useful information about home electrical upgrades, how to find reliable contractors, and the growing need for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. The talk gave homeowners good advice about getting an electric vehicle or making electrical improvements to their homes.

What Makes Gladiator Electric Different from Other Companies

Mike started Gladiator Electric in 2013 after working as a foreman for a big electrical contractor for many years. He wanted to start a different kind of business because he was tired of the common problems in the industry, like bad communication, rushed work, and vague contracts.

Homeowners often have trouble with contractors who don’t call back, give vague estimates, or don’t show up after the first visit. Mike stressed that one of the biggest problems in the contracting world is still clear communication. His method is based on being open and honest, getting there on time (or giving updates when there are delays), giving detailed written proposals, and making sure that the work meets or exceeds code requirements.

The results speak for themselves: Gladiator Electric has more than 900 five-star reviews, demonstrating that they consistently deliver quality service, not just technical skills.

The Rapid Rise of Home EV Charger Installations

Orange and Rockland Utility Company named Gladiator Electric the best EV charger installer for two years in a row, which is one of the company’s most impressive accomplishments. Mike said that his company has been putting in EV chargers since 2014, which seems like a life-time in EV years—before most electricians started to take the technology seriously.

Early doubts from other companies helped Gladiator Electric get ahead. While other people said that electric vehicles (EVs) would never catch on, Mike’s team built up their knowledge and made connections. The company now installs one to two chargers every day, which is a huge increase from the one job a month it used to do.

This growth is in line with larger trends: more people are buying fully electric or plug-in hybrid cars, which means there is a steady need for reliable Level 2 home charging solutions.

Key Considerations Before Installing an EV Charger

People who own homes often don’t realize how hard it is to add an EV charger. Mike said that the first step is to see if the home’s current electrical service can handle the extra load.

Most Level 2 chargers need their own 240-volt circuit, which usually draws 40 to 50 amps. If your home is older or has 100-amp service, you may need to upgrade your panel to 200 amps or more. Running wires from the electrical panel to the garage or driveway can also be very expensive, especially if the panel is on the other side of the house or the basement is already finished.

To make a sale, dealerships sometimes downplay these problems and tell customers to wait until the car is almost delivered to plan the installation. Mike says that people who want to buy an electric vehicle should talk to a licensed electrician well in advance.

Potential Complications and Safety Concerns with EV Chargers

Installing EV chargers the wrong way can be very dangerous. Mike said that his team often has to fix work that was done badly by installers who weren’t licensed or didn’t have enough experience. Problems can include wiring that is too small or breakers that are the wrong size, both of which can cause overheating or fires.

People who own backup generators have to think about more things. To keep the generator from getting too hot, installers might need to add load-shedding devices that turn off the charger for a short time during power outages.

These technical details show how important it is to hire qualified professionals who know both electrical code and the rules for electric vehicles.

Beyond EV Chargers: A Broader Range of Home Electrical Services

Gladiator Electric is known for its EV charger installations, but it also does a lot of other residential and light commercial work. The business does jobs of all sizes, from changing out one light bulb in a high ceiling to putting in generators for the whole house.

Mike now offers permanent holiday lighting, landscape lighting, smart home systems, network wiring, security cameras, and Panasonic ductless mini-split systems, among other things. The company plans to add professionally monitored burglar alarm systems starting in 2026. These systems will focus on reliability rather than the lowest price.

With this “one-stop shop” approach, current customers can come back for more upgrades as their needs change, such as adding outdoor lighting, making their homes more comfortable with ductless HVAC, or making them safer.

Building a Successful Contracting Business from Scratch

Mike’s story can inspire people who want to start their own business. He started Gladiator Electric with very little: a van, some tools, and a lot of willpower. He had just gotten married, his wife was pregnant, and he was trying to fix up his house. He didn’t have a business degree or any formal mentors.

He didn’t go to school; instead, he taught himself by reading books on marketing, search engine optimization, and running a business, listening to podcasts on the way to work, and making the company website himself. He had an edge over other contractors who only used traditional advertising or word-of-mouth because he started using digital marketing and social media early on.

Over time, careful hiring practices—looking for skilled technicians with good people skills—helped keep service standards high.

Tips for Homeowners Searching for an Electrician

Mike kept coming back to one main point during the interview: homeowners deserve contractors who are professional and respectful of their work. Some important suggestions are:

• Ask for written proposals that are clear and detailed instead of vague handwritten notes.
• Make sure the electrician has all the right licenses and insurance.
• Read recent reviews and ask for references.
• Check to see if the company follows the most recent electrical code, not just the bare minimum to “make it work.”
• For specialized jobs like installing EV chargers, hire installers who have worked with other businesses and have proof of their work.

Important Takeaways from The Good Neighbor Podcast Interview

• Plan ahead for EV charging: Consult a licensed electrician before purchasing an electric vehicle to assess panel capacity and installation feasibility.
• Electrical service upgrades are common: Many homes require a panel upgrade or extended wiring runs, which can significantly affect cost.
• Safety first: Improper EV charger installations create fire risks; always use qualified professionals.
• Communication matters: Reliable contractors provide clear timelines, detailed estimates, and prompt follow-up.
• Experience counts: Installers who have worked with EV chargers for years (since 2014 or earlier) typically deliver better results.
• Utility incentives may still apply: While federal tax credits for vehicles have changed, some charger installation and off-peak charging incentives remain available through local utilities.
• Consider long-term needs: A trustworthy electrician can handle evolving home projects—from lighting and smart systems to security and HVAC.

Mike’s insights highlight both the opportunities and pitfalls homeowners face when upgrading their electrical systems. As more and more people in New Jersey and elsewhere switch to electric cars, the best way to ensure that home charging solutions are safe, efficient, and affordable is to be well-informed. If you’d like to hear more from the Good Neighbor Podcast you can listen to episodes here.  If you’d like to schedule a free virtual estimate from Gladiator Electric click here.

The Rapid Rise of Home EV Charger Installations

Orange and Rockland Utility Company named Gladiator Electric the best EV charger installer for two years in a row, which is one of the company’s most impressive accomplishments. Mike said that his company has been putting in EV chargers since 2014, which seems like a life-time in EV years—before most electricians started to take the technology seriously.

Early doubts from other companies helped Gladiator Electric get ahead. While other people said that electric vehicles (EVs) would never catch on, Mike’s team built up their knowledge and made connections. The company now installs one to two chargers every day, which is a huge increase from the one job a month it used to do.

This growth is in line with larger trends: more people are buying fully electric or plug-in hybrid cars, which means there is a steady need for reliable Level 2 home charging solutions.

Key Considerations Before Installing an EV Charger

People who own homes often don’t realize how hard it is to add an EV charger. Mike said that the first step is to see if the home’s current electrical service can handle the extra load.

Most Level 2 chargers need their own 240-volt circuit, which usually draws 40 to 50 amps. If your home is older or has 100-amp service, you may need to upgrade your panel to 200 amps or more. Running wires from the electrical panel to the garage or driveway can also be very expensive, especially if the panel is on the other side of the house or the basement is already finished.

To make a sale, dealerships sometimes downplay these problems and tell customers to wait until the car is almost delivered to plan the installation. Mike says that people who want to buy an electric vehicle should talk to a licensed electrician well in advance.

Potential Complications and Safety Concerns with EV Chargers

Installing EV chargers the wrong way can be very dangerous. Mike said that his team often has to fix work that was done badly by installers who weren’t licensed or didn’t have enough experience. Problems can include wiring that is too small or breakers that are the wrong size, both of which can cause overheating or fires.

People who own backup generators have to think about more things. To keep the generator from getting too hot, installers might need to add load-shedding devices that turn off the charger for a short time during power outages.

These technical details show how important it is to hire qualified professionals who know both the electrical code and the rules for electric vehicles.

Why Choose Gladiator Electric to Install Your EV Charger

You should choose Gladiator Electric because we stand out as a premier partner for EV charger installation, due to our technical expertise and focus on customer satisfaction. With years of experience in the electrical services industry, the team at Gladiator Electric brings a comprehensive understanding of the electrical requirements and code compliance needed for safe, efficient EV charger installations. Their licensed electricians are trained to assess site-specific conditions, determine the appropriate charger type and setup, and implement installations that maximize performance while minimizing disruption to your home or business. This seasoned proficiency ensures that each EV charging station is installed with precision and durability, giving customers confidence in both functionality and long-term reliability.

In addition to technical acumen, Gladiator Electric emphasizes a customer-centric approach that makes the installation process straightforward and stress-free. They offer personalized guidance on the best charging options for your specific vehicle and lifestyle, whether you’re integrating a Level 2 charger for daily use or a more advanced system for commercial needs. Gladiator Electric’s commitment to staying current with advancements in EV technology and renewable energy trends further positions them as a forward-looking choice for homeowners and businesses alike. Their passion for supporting the transition to electric transportation, combined with proactive service and consistent communication, helps ensure a smooth and positive experience from initial consultation through final commissioning.

Beyond EV Chargers: A Broader Range of Home Electrical Services

Gladiator Electric is known for its EV charger installations, but it also does a lot of other residential and light commercial work. The business does jobs of all sizes, from changing out one light bulb in a high ceiling to putting in generators for the whole house.

Mike now offers permanent holiday lighting, landscape lighting, smart home systems, network wiring, security cameras, and Panasonic ductless mini-split systems, among other things. The company plans to add professionally monitored burglar alarm systems starting in 2026. These systems will focus on reliability rather than the lowest price.

With this “one-stop shop” approach, current customers can come back for more upgrades as their needs change, such as adding outdoor lighting, making their homes more comfortable with ductless HVAC, or making them safer.

Building a Successful Contracting Business from Scratch

Mike’s story can inspire people who want to start their own business. He started Gladiator Electric with very little: a van, some tools, and a lot of willpower. He had just gotten married, his wife was pregnant, and he was trying to fix up his house. He didn’t have a business degree or any formal mentors.

He didn’t go to school; instead, he taught himself by reading books on marketing, search engine optimization, and running a business, listening to podcasts on the way to work, and making the company website himself. He had an edge over other contractors who only used traditional advertising or word-of-mouth because he started using digital marketing and social media early on.

Over time, careful hiring practices—looking for skilled technicians with good people skills—helped keep service standards high.

Tips for Homeowners Searching for an Electrician

Mike kept coming back to one main point during the interview: homeowners deserve contractors who are professional and respectful of their work. Some important suggestions are:

• Ask for written proposals that are clear and detailed instead of vague handwritten notes.
• Make sure the electrician has all the right licenses and insurance.
• Read recent reviews and ask for references.
• Check to see if the company follows the most recent electrical code, not just the bare minimum to “make it work.”
• For specialized jobs like installing EV chargers, hire installers who have worked with other businesses and have proof of their work.

Important Takeaways from The Good Neighbor Podcast Interview

• Plan ahead for EV charging: Consult a licensed electrician before purchasing an electric vehicle to assess panel capacity and installation feasibility.
• Electrical service upgrades are common: Many homes require a panel upgrade or extended wiring runs, which can significantly affect cost.
• Safety first: Improper EV charger installations create fire risks; always use qualified professionals.
• Communication matters: Reliable contractors provide clear timelines, detailed estimates, and prompt follow-up.
• Experience counts: Installers who have worked with EV chargers for years (since 2014 or earlier) typically deliver better results.
• Utility incentives may still apply: While federal tax credits for vehicles have changed, some charger installation and off-peak charging incentives remain available through local utilities.
• Consider long-term needs: A trustworthy electrician can handle evolving home projects—from lighting and smart systems to security and HVAC.

Mike’s insights highlight both the opportunities and pitfalls homeowners face when upgrading their electrical systems. As more and more people in New Jersey and elsewhere switch to electric cars, the best way to ensure that home charging solutions are safe, efficient, and affordable is to be well-informed. If you’d like to hear more from the Good Neighbor Podcast you can listen to episodes here.  If you’d like to schedule a free virtual estimate from Gladiator Electric click here.