EV Charger Installation: What Every New Installer Needs to Know

Introduction to EV Charging

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more popular every year, and as EV ownership grows, so does the demand for reliable home and commercial charging solutions. Installing an EV charger is a vital part of the ownership journey, and for installers, it’s a great opportunity to enter a growing market.

Having private parking is typically essential for a home EV charger, as it ensures a safe and convenient space for the unit without needing permissions from local authorities or landlords. The benefits of owning an electric car include faster charging times with dedicated chargers, lower emissions, and cost savings compared to traditional vehicles.

Understanding the basics of EV charging – from the different types of chargers to installation best practices – is key to delivering safe and effective installations.

Don’t forget: the Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme (EVHS) provides government grants that help homeowners cover the cost of installation, making your services more appealing to budget-conscious clients.

Pre-Installation: What to Know Before You Drill

Before any tools come out of the van, you need to gather crucial information during a site survey:

• Power supply check: Can the current system handle the additional load?
• Distribution Network Operator (DNO): Are there any special requirements or permissions needed?
• Property type: Is it rented accommodation? If so, landlord permission is a must.
• Parking: Off-street parking is often required for home installations.
• Regulations: Review the latest IET Wiring Regulations and relevant building regulations.
• Charger type: Determine whether the customer wants a smart charger, a fast charger, or a basic unit.
• Wi-Fi availability: Smart chargers need reliable internet access to function fully.

Choosing the Right Charger

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to EV chargers. Choosing the right product depends on:

• Charging rate: 3.6kW, 7kW, 22kW? Single or three-phase?
• Smart features: Look for scheduled charging, remote access, and load balancing.
• Compatibility: Check the charger matches the vehicle and home electrical system.
• Safety features: Surge protection, circuit breakers, PEN fault protection, etc.
• Budget and grants: Factor in government schemes and pricing comparisons.
• Aesthetic: Yes, it matters – customers often want a sleek unit that suits their home.
• Certified providers: Many EV charger providers offer installation services included with the purchase. Choosing a certified provider ensures safety and quality.

Installation Requirements and Regulations

Getting the job done right means following the rules:

• Competent Person Scheme: Installers must be registered.
• IET Wiring Regulations: These are your installation Bible.
• Building regulations: Especially important when drilling through walls or modifying electrical systems.
• Compatibility checks: Confirm the existing consumer unit and fuse box can support the charger.
• Cable length & routing: Plan a clean, efficient cable path.
• Stable Wi-Fi connection: Vital for smart charger functionality.
• Charge points: Must meet government regulations and safety standards.

The Installation Process

A standard EV charger installation usually includes:

1. Site survey
2. Consumer unit check
3. Drilling and mounting
4. Running cabling and connections to the electricity supply
5. Wi-Fi testing
6. Charger installation and connection
7. Testing and commissioning

Pro tip: Always test the Wi-Fi signal at the install location before drilling. It saves headaches later!

Once installed, walk the customer through the basics of using the charger and any app integration.

Post-Installation Handover and Maintenance

After installation, handover is more than a handshake. Provide:

• A user guide and demo
• Troubleshooting advice
• Details on warranties and servicing
• Support contact info
• Aesthetic tips (e.g. “paintable cable trunking” or “hide behind plants”)
• Information on proper ev charger installations, including placement, Wi-Fi quality, installation costs, and additional features like surge protection

Ongoing support builds trust and sets you apart from cowboys in the trade.

Data and Analytics

Modern chargers offer usage insights via apps or portals. These let users:

• Track energy usage
• Schedule charging to off-peak hours
• Monitor costs and carbon savings
• Ensure a strong wifi signal for accessing smart features and monitoring usage data

Ensure the customer understands how to access and use this data. It can lead to better energy habits and even lower bills.

Time and Cost

Install time and costs vary based on complexity, but here are key factors:

• Type of charger (fast vs. standard)
• Electrical upgrades required
• Length of cable run
• Wall type (solid brick? wooden cladding?)
• Smart features setup
• Additional cost for upgrades and modifications that may incur further charges

Be clear with customers about what’s included in the standard install. Surprise charges? Nobody likes those.

Commercial Installations

Commercial installs come with added complexity:

• Three-phase power: Often needed for faster charging.
• Multiple chargers: Load balancing becomes essential.
• Regulation compliance: Especially important for public-facing chargers.
• Engineer availability: Only authorised, qualified installers should carry out these jobs.
• Business incentives: Highlight benefits like 100% first-year capital allowance and reduced VAT.
• Dedicated off street parking: Ensures the charger can be placed in a safe and accessible location, which is critical for users looking to charge their electric vehicles at home.

Also, mention the appeal of zero-emission vehicles: lower running costs, fewer taxes, and a boost to CSR for businesses.

Troubleshooting and Repair

Even the best chargers can run into issues. Be ready to:

• Diagnose faults like connectivity drops, charging failures, or error lights.
• Replace parts such as tethered cables or damaged sockets.
• Perform firmware updates if smart features aren’t working.
• Advise customers on routine checks and maintenance.
• Discuss the usability and practicality of the charging cable, including common issues like difficulty connecting or disconnecting the cable, especially when the charger is mounted at a higher position.

Provide an easy contact method for post-install queries and build a reputation for reliability.

Final Thought

As more EVs hit the road, the demand for home and commercial chargers will only increase. For new installers, this is a golden opportunity to build a niche, grow a business, and drive sustainability forward.

Stay informed, stay qualified, and always deliver with care. The future is electric – and you’re the one helping plug it in.