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Your First EV Home Charger Installation: 5 Common Mistakes to Avoid
By David Lewis, Electric Vehicle & Clean Energy Journalist.
Installing your first home EV charger? Avoid these 5 common mistakes, from choosing the wrong charger to overlooking installation costs.
Installing your first electric vehicle (EV) charger at home is a big step towards convenience and cost savings when topping up your car’s battery. But it’s easy to make avoidable mistakes that could lead to further expenses, performance issues, or even safety concerns.
Fear not – this guide will help you sidestep the most common pitfalls when installing a home car charging point, and make sure you get the best out of it.
Why Proper Installation Matters
Installing a home charger might seem simple, but there’s much more to it than just plugging in a new device. A well-planned setup will ensure efficient charging performance, long-term reliability and, most importantly, safety that’s compliant with UK regulations. As a result, you’ll get optimal energy usage and potential cash savings, too.
Mistakes during installation can cause power disruptions, damage to your property, or even void your charger’s warranty. That’s why it’s vital to get it right the first time.
5 Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Choosing the Wrong Charger
Not all EV chargers are the same. Picking a low-powered or incompatible charger could result in unnecessarily slow charge times. For most UK homes, a 7.4 kW (AC) charger is the right choice. If your home has a three-phase power supply, you could install a faster 22 kW charger. However, most homes don’t have a three-phase supply, and in any case most EVs are limited internally to about 11 kW maximum charge.
If you’ve got a commercial property, then you might be able to install a 'DC' charger which allows for even faster charging than AC technology.
2. Not Checking Your Electrical Capacity
Your home’s electrical system needs to handle the additional load of a charger, which can be considerable. If you don’t get this properly assessed, you risk tripping circuits…or worse. Get a qualified electrician to inspect your consumer unit (fuse box) before you commit to any kind of installation.
3. Overlooking Installation Costs
Remember, the price tag on a charger doesn’t usually include everything. You’ve got to factor in the installation labour cost, which could include cable runs and trenching if the charger is far from your house, as well as any upgrades to your electrical system. That will all increase the final bill.
It’s best to get a detailed, itemised quote from an installer before any work begins. If you qualify, don’t forget to factor in government grants, such as the EV Chargepoint Grant.
4. Poor Charger Placement
Where you install the charger matters. If you put it in an awkward location, it can be a day-to-day inconvenience or increase its wear and tear. Put your charger where it’s easy to access, safe from the elements if possible, and won’t obstruct walkways or parking.
5. Ignoring Smart Charging Features
Some EV owners miss out on the benefits of smart charging features, such as off-peak scheduling, energy monitoring, or solar integration. Sure, you could just plug and go, but these features can save you money and improve the whole charging experience.
How to Ensure a Smooth Installation
Plan your home charger installation properly and you should avoid the vast majority of pitfalls to unlock the full benefits of easy and affordable EV charging. Each installation will depend on the individual circumstances, but here’s a benchmark step-by-step guide of things to consider:
- Research: Compare the available chargers based on power output, compatibility, and features.
- Check the electrical load: You’ll need to consult an electrician for this to make sure your system can cope. However, potential installers may also be able to do this for you.
- Get multiple quotes: This will help you understand the full range of costs associated with the installation.
- Choose a certified installer: Look for OZEV-approved professionals – this means they’ve been certified by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles.
- Do a post-installation check: Make sure your charger is working correctly, and ask for a certificate of compliance.
Further questions about charging an EV at home or in public?
Phone our dedicated EV team now on 0118 3048 688. Or email us at enquiries@selectcarleasing.co.uk.
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