In this ultimate guide to electric car charger installations we discuss all you need to know, from choosing the right charger to wiring and installation tips.
As the world starts to move away from gas-guzzling cars, and as a result, more and more people are looking into moving to an electric car and installing an electric car charging point in their homes. If you’re thinking of making the switch to an electric vehicle, or you already have one and are looking to install an EV charger, this ultimate electric car charger installation guide is for you.
The 3 main types of electric car chargers
So which car charging point should I go for?
To start, let’s go over the basics of a home charger. There are three main types of EV chargers: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3.
Level 1 EV chargers are the slowest type of charger and typically use a standard 120-volt outlet. These are ideal for people who only drive short distances and don’t need to charge their car frequently.
Level 2 EV chargers are faster than Level 1 chargers and use a 240-volt outlet, the same kind used for clothes dryers and stoves. These are a good option for people who drive medium to long distances and need to charge their car more often.
Level 3 EV chargers are the fastest charger and use a 480-volt outlet, the same kind used for large appliances like washing machines. These are ideal for people who drive long distances and need to charge their car very fr
It’s also important to factor in the cost of electricity when deciding which EV charger to install. With electric prices ever increasing, it’s important to choose a charger that will help you save money in the long run.
We always recommend consulting a professional electrician to determine which type of charger is best for your electric vehicle needs.
Some of the things you need to take into account when choosing a home charger are:
-The type of socket you have at home – this will determine which pod point is compatible with your home
-How much power you need – this will be determined by the number of kilowatts (kW) your charger can deliver
-The length of cable you need – some pod points come with a long cable, while others have a shorter one. You’ll need to ensure you get the right length for your needs.
Getting the car charging point right is essential in ensuring your and your family’s safety. Not to mention, it’ll save you a lot of money in the long run as electric cars are cheaper to run than petrol or diesel ones.
What are the typical costs of a home charge point?
Ev chargers can vary quite greatly in price.
Level 1 EV chargers are typically the most affordable, while Level 3 EV chargers are the most expensive. That said, prices can also vary depending on the quality of the EV chargers and the features it offers.
Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from £800 to £2,000 for a home charge point. However, many factors can affect the price, so it’s always best to consult a professional electrician for an accurate quote.
How long does it take to charge your electric vehicles at home?
The time it takes to charge an electric car depends on the type of charger you have. Level 1 chargers typically take 8 to 12 hours to charge a car, while Level 2 chargers can do it in 4 to 6 hours. Level 3 chargers are the fastest and can charge a car in as little as 30 minutes.
How often should I charge my electric car at home?
The frequency you charge your car will depend on how much you drive. If you only use your car for short trips, you can get away with charging it once a week or even less. However, if you drive long distances frequently, you’ll need to charge it more often, perhaps even daily.
Can I install an electric car charger myself?
Installing an electric car charger is not a DIY project. It’s best to leave it to the professionals, as many safety concerns are involved. Plus, you could be left with a hefty repair bill if something goes wrong.
What do I need to install an electric car charger in my home?
There are a few things you’ll need before you can install an electric car charger in your home:
-A dedicated circuit for the charger – this is typically a 240-volt circuit that’s already installed in your home.
-An electrical panel is where the charger’s dedicated circuit will be installed.
-An EV-certified electrician – this person will ensure that the charger is properly installed and that your home’s electrical system can handle the additional load.
If you’re not sure if you have a dedicated circuit for your electric car charger or if your electrical panel can handle the additional load, we recommend consulting with a professional electrician.
How long does it take to install a home charger?
The time it takes to install an electric car charger varies depending on the type of charger and the complexity of your home’s electrical system.
Level 1 chargers can be installed in a few hours, while Level 2 and Level 3 chargers can take anywhere from half a day to a full day.
Again, we recommend consulting with a professional electrician to get an accurate estimate for your specific situation.
Now that you know the basics of electric car charging let’s talk about how to install one in your home.
The process is quite simple, but there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind.
Step 1
First, you’ll need to decide where to install the charger. It’s important to choose a spot close to an electrical outlet and has good airflow, so the charger doesn’t overheat. You should also avoid installing it in an area that could be damaged by weather or debris.
Step 2
Once you’ve chosen a spot, the next step is installing the charger’s dedicated circuit. This is typically a 240-volt circuit that’s already installed in your home. We recommend consulting with a professional electrician if you’re unsure if you have a dedicated circuit.
Once the dedicated circuit is installed, the next step is to install the electrical panel. This is where the dedicated circuit for the charger will be installed.
Again, we recommend consulting a professional electrician to ensure that the panel is properly installed and that your home’s electrical system can handle the additional load.
Step 3
The last step is to install the actual charger. This can be done by an EV-certified electrician or by following the instructions that come with the charger.
Once the charger is installed, you’ll need to connect it to your car. Most chargers come with a standard 120-volt plug, which can be plugged into any household outlet. However, if you have a Level 2 or Level 3 charger, you’ll need to connect it to a dedicated circuit.
And that’s it! Once the charger is installed and connected to your car, you’ll be able to charge your car’s battery whenever possible. Always follow the instructions that come with your charger, and never attempt to install it yourself if you’re not comfortable doing so.
Some of the most popular EV charging brands are:
– Ohme
– EO
– Tesla
– Rolec EV
Each of these has its own benefits, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs.
For example, if you want to be able to charge your car overnight, you’ll need an Off-Peak charger. However, if you need to be able to charge your car during the day, you’ll need a Rapid charger.
Ready to get started with your electric car charger installations?
If you’re considering installing an electric car charger in your home, we recommend consulting with a professional electrician to ensure that the process goes smoothly. We hope you’ve enjoyed our ultimate electric car charger installations guide. If you have any questions about which charger is right for you, please don’t hesitate to contact us today. We’ll be more than happy to help you find the perfect charger for your needs.
If you’d like to have a chat about your specific needs for your home car charging point, please get in touch with us on 07738 533088 or email
