In the UK, an estimated 80% of electric vehicle charging happens at home, and with fuel costs on the rise again, there is no better time to say goodbye to petrol stations.
Using a home charger is the most convenient way to charge your vehicle, and there are a shedload of benefits to switching from a 3 pin plug socket to a smart charging system, including increased safety, savings and speed.
The installation process of a home EV charger is fairly simple, especially when using a trusted installation provider who will walk you through your requirements during each step of the process.
Choosing an Installation Operative
Whether you have chosen the type of EV charging system you would like, or are not yet certain, employing a trusted installation team is paramount. An EV charging system should only be installed by a qualified electrician with experience or training fitting EV charging systems. Having a system installed by anyone else is likely to invalidate your warranty and could cause serious problems that cost a lot more in the long run, or potentially put you and your family in danger.
A highly-skilled technical team, like ours, will be able to direct you towards an EV system that will work for you, considering your property and vehicle/s as well as your budget and charging requirements and preferences.
Electricians have specialist regulations to adhere to when fitting charging systems, including informing the Distribution Network Operator, adhering to codes of practice regarding fitting location specifics, and fitting and testing RCDs to ensure systems are safe for users. Electricians on the list of OZEV-approved installers can also arrange any government grant on your behalf if you’re eligible, making the whole process much smoother.
Choosing where you would like your EV charging system
There is a lot to consider when deciding the location of your new system, not just in terms of convenience to the user, but the safety of the surrounding area and any potential hazards within the location.
Limitations and conditions to be aware of
- The charge point must be located in your designated off-street parking, many choose their garage or driveway, which are great for ease of access and preventing hazards to passers-by (they are also waterproof, so no need to worry about the weather). If you have no off-street parking, having a charge point installed could prove difficult and will likely require planning permission.
- Typically, the charge point will be fixed at a height where it can’t be hit by a vehicle.
- Charge points cannot be installed within 2.5 metres of “SIM touches”. A “SIM touch” is a metal object connected to a power supply, such as an outdoor light in a metal case. Your EV charger installation team may suggest changing this fitting to a light in a plastic case so that your desired location can be used for the installation of your charger.
- If you are renting the property and connected parking space, remember to get permission from your landlord beforehand. Planning permission might be required from your local authority if the charger will affect any public spaces.
A trained installer will adhere to rules and regulations relating to the location of your EV charging system, to keep yourself and your neighbours safe. EV systems require a high level of electricity, so a site survey and careful consideration by technical experts is crucial, to prevent the potential for fire or electric shock.
Preparing for EV charging system installation
There are a few things you can do to prepare, on the day of your EV charger installation, although the process is generally a fairly quick and straight-forward one. Installation typically take between 2-3 hours, however it can be longer should the installer stumble across any complications.
How to prepare on the day
- Ensure a clear and safe area around your desired charge point location.
- Ensure ease of access and a clear route between the charge point location and the electricity supply meter/distribution board.
- Be prepared to have the power turned off during installation.
- Have your WiFi password available for your installer.
After set up your technician will show you how to use your new system so having your car on-site might be helpful. A qualified electrician will perform any safety testing at this point, and, if required, discuss any future testing that should be performed at a later date.
Our Specialist Service
At Avail EV, we supply and install a wide range of OLEV approved charging points across the UK and have decades of experience working on large electrical projects. To discuss your project and obtain a free quotation from our installation experts, get in touch today.
