Home EV Charging Installation Guide

Thinking about installing an electric vehicle charger at home? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about home EV charging installation, from choosing the right charger to understanding costs and available grants.

Why Install a Home EV Charger?

Installing a dedicated EV charger at home offers numerous benefits:

• Convenience: Charge overnight while you sleep
• Cost savings: Cheaper than public charging points
• Faster charging: Much quicker than a standard 3-pin plug
• Property value: Adds value to your home
• Future-proof: Ready for the electric vehicle revolution

Types of EV Chargers

1. Slow Chargers (3kW)

Standard 3-pin plug socket charging. While this works, it's very slow (8-12 hours for a full charge) and not recommended for regular use as it can overload domestic circuits.

2. Fast Chargers (7kW)

The most popular choice for home installation. Provides a full charge in 3-4 hours for most vehicles. Requires a dedicated circuit and professional installation.

3. Rapid Chargers (22kW)

Less common for domestic installations due to higher power requirements. Most homes would need a three-phase electricity supply, which isn't standard in UK properties.

Popular Home Charger Brands

• Ohme: Smart charging with app control and solar integration
• Zappi: Eco-friendly option that works with solar panels
• Pod Point: Reliable and user-friendly
• Wallbox: Sleek design with smart features
• Easee: Compact and powerful

The Installation Process

Step 1: Site Survey

A qualified electrician will assess:

• Your existing electrical system capacity
• The best location for the charger
• Cable routing from your consumer unit
• Parking arrangements and cable length needed
• Whether any upgrades are required

Step 2: Consumer Unit Check

Your electrician will verify that your consumer unit (fusebox) can handle the additional load. Older properties may need an upgrade to accommodate an EV charger safely.

Step 3: Installation

The installation typically takes 3-4 hours and includes:

• Installing a dedicated circuit from the consumer unit
• Mounting the charge point on an external wall
• Running armoured cable to the charger
• Connecting and testing the system
• Configuring smart features (if applicable)

Step 4: Certification

Upon completion, you'll receive:

• Installation certificate
• User manual and warranty information
• Demonstration of how to use the charger
• Building Control notification (Part P compliance)

Installation Costs

Home EV charger installation costs typically range from:

• Charger unit: £500 - £1,200
• Installation: £300 - £800
• Total cost: £800 - £2,000

Costs vary depending on:

• Charger model and features
• Cable length required
• Complexity of installation
• Whether consumer unit upgrades are needed

Government Grants and Incentives

EV Chargepoint Grant

The UK government offers grants for EV charger installation:

• Flat/apartment residents: Up to £350 per installation
• Rental properties: Landlords can claim for tenant parking spaces
• Check eligibility at gov.uk/electric-vehicle-chargepoint-grant

Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)

If you have solar panels, you can earn money by exporting excess energy to the grid, which can offset your EV charging costs.

Important Considerations

Electrical Capacity

Most UK homes have a 100-amp main fuse, which is usually sufficient. However, if you have electric heating or plan to charge multiple EVs, you may need an upgrade.

Location

Consider:

• Proximity to your parking space
• Cable management (avoid trip hazards)
• Weather protection
• Security (chargers can be locked)
• Future-proofing (room for a second charger?)

Smart Features

Modern chargers offer:

• Smartphone app control
• Scheduling (charge during off-peak hours)
• Solar integration
• Load balancing
• Usage monitoring

Running Costs

Charging at home is significantly cheaper than petrol:

• Off-peak electricity: 7-9p per kWh
• Standard rate: 24-28p per kWh
• Full charge (60kWh battery): £4.20 - £16.80
• Cost per mile: 3-5p (vs 12-15p for petrol)

Maintenance

EV chargers require minimal maintenance:

• Keep the unit clean and free from debris
• Check cables regularly for damage
• Annual inspection recommended
• Software updates (automatic on smart chargers)

Legal Requirements

EV charger installation must comply with:

• BS 7671 (18th Edition): Wiring regulations
• Building Regulations Part P: Electrical safety
• IET Code of Practice: For EV charging equipment
• Installation by a qualified electrician (NICEIC, NAPIT, or similar)

Choosing an Installer

Always use a qualified electrician who is:

• NICEIC, NAPIT, or ELECSA registered
• OZEV (Office for Zero Emission Vehicles) approved
• Experienced in EV charger installations
• Able to provide insurance-backed guarantees
• Transparent about costs and timescales

Common Questions

Can we install a charger myself?

No. EV charger installation must be carried out by a qualified electrician to comply with building regulations and ensure safety.

Do we need planning permission?

Generally no, as EV chargers are considered "permitted development." However, check with your local authority if you live in a listed building or conservation area.

Can we charge in the rain?

Yes. EV chargers are weatherproof and designed for outdoor use. They're safe to use in all weather conditions.

What if we move house?

EV chargers add value to your property. Most people leave them installed, but some models can be removed and reinstalled at your new home.

Conclusion

Installing a home EV charger is a smart investment that offers convenience, cost savings, and future-proofs your property. With government grants available and running costs significantly lower than petrol, now is an excellent time to make the switch.

Always use a qualified, OZEV-approved electrician to ensure your installation is safe, compliant, and eligible for any available grants.