How to Prepare for Your Home EV Charger Installation

Why Install an EV Charger at Home?

Having a home EV charger on your driveway offers undeniable convenience, but the installation process involves more than simply placing an order and plugging in. If the idea of getting your own charging point feels a little overwhelming, here are some key benefits that make it a worthwhile investment:

Safer Charging

A dedicated EV charger is not only more convenient but also far safer for both you and your car. Using a standard three-pin plug to charge your EV may seem easy, but it can strain your home’s wiring, potentially leading to overheating or, in rare cases, electrical fires. A purpose-built EV charger is designed to handle the higher power output needed for EV charging, ensuring a safer and more reliable solution.

Additionally, a private charging point means you can avoid the security concerns associated with public charging stations, such as leaving your vehicle unattended in unsecured car parks for long periods.

Greener charging

Many home EV chargers are compatible with renewable energy sources like solar panels or wind turbines, making them a great choice for environmentally conscious drivers. By pairing your charger with renewable energy, you can power your EV using green energy instead of relying solely on the national grid, which may still include fossil fuel-derived electricity.

Cheaper Charging

While there’s an initial cost to install a home EV charger, the long-term savings can be substantial. Charging at home is often cheaper than using public charging points, especially if you opt for an EV-specific energy tariff. These tariffs often provide reduced rates during off-peak hours, allowing you to save even more. Public charging stations typically charge higher rates to account for maintenance and operational costs, meaning your own home charger will keep costs down over time.

Boost your property value

With over 1.3 million fully electric vehicles on UK roads at the end of 2024 and with the market continuing to grow, having an EV charger installed can increase your property’s value. For prospective buyers already in the EV market, a property with a charging point is a huge plus, often boosting your home’s desirability and resale price well above the initial installation cost.

Investing in a home EV charger isn’t just about convenience—it’s a smarter, safer, and more economical way to support your electric driving lifestyle.

If you are considering installing a home charger and want to understand more, our in-depth guides can help you with the questions you might have.

Charging an Electric Car at Home

Do I Need a Dedicated Home Charger for My EV

Proximity to Where You Park:

Though it sounds obvious, the location of your EV charger relative to your parking spot is a crucial consideration. Think about where you typically park your car and ensure the charger is within easy reach of your vehicle’s charging port. For example, if your car’s port is on the rear, installing the charger at the front of your parking space might not be ideal.

Additionally, consider whether your charger will be tethered (comes with an attached cable) or untethered (requires a separate cable). A tethered charger offers convenience, as the cable is always ready to use, but it limits flexibility in cable length. On the other hand, untethered chargers let you choose a cable length to suit your parking setup but require you to carry and connect the cable each time.

By carefully assessing the distance, direction, and type of charger, you can ensure your charging point is easily accessible and practical for daily use. If in doubt, consult your installer.

Proximity to Your Fuse Box:

Positioning your EV charger close to your fuse box is not only practical but also cost-effective. Shorter wiring reduces installation costs, and if your setup requires trenching and backfilling to run cables underground, keeping this distance minimal can save significantly on labour and materials.

Protection from the Weather:

While EV chargers are built to withstand rain and the elements, prolonged exposure can still impact their longevity. Opt for a location that provides some natural shelter, such as a garage wall or an area with an overhead cover, to protect your charger and extend its lifespan.

Future-Proofing:

Think ahead when selecting your installation spot. If you might add extra charging points or upgrade your setup in the future, choose a location with ample space and easy accessibility. This ensures your system remains flexible and ready for any changes to your EV needs.

Why Choose a Smart Charger?

Smart chargers allow you to schedule charging sessions, ensuring your EV charges during off-peak hours when electricity is cheaper. This not only reduces strain on the power grid but also helps you save money, especially if you’re on an EV-specific tariff that offers discounted rates during low-demand times.

Beyond cost savings, smart chargers provide added convenience. Many models come with apps or online dashboards that let you monitor your energy usage, track charging history, and gain insights into your charging habits. These features help you optimise your charging schedule and reduce overall energy costs while keeping your car ready to go.

Checking WiFi Connectivity for Your Charger

To make the most of a smart charger’s features, ensure it’s installed in a location with a strong WiFi signal. Use a WiFi analyser app on your smartphone to test the signal strength in potential installation spots. If the signal is weak, you may need to boost your connectivity with a WiFi extender or a powerline adapter. This will ensure seamless communication between your charger, smart meter, and app.

Available Power Supply

Your home’s power supply determines the maximum output your EV charger can deliver.

Most UK homes operate on single-phase power, which supports charging points with an output of up to 7 kW. This is sufficient for most EV drivers, allowing overnight charging that fits seamlessly into daily routines.

If your home has a three-phase power supply, you could install a charger with a higher output, enabling faster charging and potentially stepping into the “rapid” or “super rapid” categories. However, upgrading from single-phase to three-phase power involves complex electrical work, such as cable replacements and installing a new meter box, which may not be a practical or cost-effective solution for all EV owners.

Maximum Charging Rate

When choosing a home EV charger, it’s essential to match the charger’s output with your vehicle’s maximum charging rate.

For instance, if your EV supports a maximum charging rate of 11 kW, plugging into a 22 kW charger won’t provide any additional charging speed. The car will cap the charge at its maximum capability.

Before investing in a charger, check your EV’s owner’s manual or specifications to confirm its maximum charging rate. This will ensure you select a charger that delivers optimal performance without unnecessary expense.

By understanding your home’s power supply and your EV’s charging capabilities, you’ll be well-equipped to choose a home EV charger that meets your needs efficiently and cost-effectively. For more insights into selecting the best EV charging solution, explore our comprehensive guides.

Cost of the Charger and Installation

Home EV charging units typically cost between £500 and £1,500, depending on the brand, features, and optional extras like aesthetic casings to complement your home’s exterior.

When comparing prices, remember to account for additional installation costs, such as wiring, trenching, backfill, or cable extensions. These extras can add up, so it’s worth seeking quotes from multiple providers to ensure you’re getting value for money without compromising quality.

Installation Process and After-Sales Support

The ease of installation and ongoing support will largely depend on the provider you choose. Research reviews from other customers to gain insights into how professional and efficient the installation process is.

Key things to look into include:

• Pre-installation Surveys: Does the provider require a physical visit to your home, or can you complete the survey digitally by submitting photos of your off-street parking?
• Aftersales Support: Like any electronic device, your charger might need support or repairs in the future. Check the provider’s reputation for fault resolution and ongoing customer service.

Reliable aftercare ensures that your charging point will continue to perform well long after installation.

Compatibility

Most modern home EV chargers are designed to be broadly compatible with various EV models. However, it’s important to double-check your vehicle’s specifications, including the plug type and maximum charging capacity, to ensure the charger will work seamlessly with your car.

If you’re planning to integrate renewable energy systems such as solar panels or wind turbines, make sure your chosen charging point is compatible with these green energy sources to maximise efficiency and sustainability.

Smart Charging Features

Smart chargers offer additional features that can make charging at home more efficient and cost-effective. While most chargers have basic smart capabilities, it’s worth comparing these features to find a model that suits your needs.

Some standout features include:

Dashboard or App Control: 

Many smart chargers come with apps or online dashboards that let you monitor charging sessions, set schedules, and track your energy usage.

Automated Cost Optimisation: 

When paired with the right energy tariff, a smart charger can automatically schedule charging during off-peak times, helping you save on energy bills.

Renewables Prioritisation: 

Advanced models can prioritise energy from renewable sources, such as surplus solar power, before drawing from the grid.

Making The Right Choice

With so many providers offering similar features, choosing the best home EV charge point ultimately comes down to cost, compatibility, and customer support. Take the time to research your options, read reviews, and compare features to ensure you’re making an informed decision.

For a detailed breakdown of some of the leading UK EV charge point providers, explore our EV Charging Comparison Guide to find the right fit for your needs.