Home EV Charger Installation: A Complete Guide

Electric vehicle ownership is growing rapidly across the UK, and with it the demand for home EV charging. If you have recently bought or are considering buying an electric vehicle, installing a dedicated home charger is one of the most practical and cost-effective things you can do.

A standard three-pin plug can charge most electric vehicles, but it is slow. A typical 3kW charge from a standard socket will add around 10-15 miles of range per hour, meaning a full charge from empty can take 24 hours or more. A dedicated 7kW home charger, by contrast, can add 25-30 miles of range per hour, meaning most vehicles can be fully charged overnight.

Home EV chargers, also known as wallboxes, come in a range of styles and with a range of features. Basic models simply charge your vehicle at a fixed rate. Smart chargers can be controlled via a smartphone app, allowing you to schedule charging to take advantage of off-peak electricity tariffs, monitor energy consumption, and integrate with solar panels if you have them.

The installation process for a home EV charger typically takes 2-4 hours. An electrician will assess your existing electrical installation, install the charger unit (usually on an external wall near where you park your vehicle), run a dedicated circuit from your consumer unit, and test the installation. In most cases, no upgrade to your consumer unit is required, but this will be confirmed during the survey.

The cost of a home EV charger installation varies depending on the charger unit chosen and the complexity of the installation. As a rough guide, expect to pay between £500 and £1,000 for a standard home installation including the charger unit. More complex installations requiring longer cable runs or supply upgrades will cost more.

I install EV chargers from leading manufacturers including Zappi, Ohme, Andersen, and Pod Point across Wigan and the North West. I can advise on the best charger for your needs and budget. Get in touch for a free, no-obligation survey and quote.